Sea moss is a nutrient-rich supplement that has been consumed for centuries and is now being touted as a superfood. It is commonly harvested in New England to extract carrageenan, a gelatinous carbohydrate used in baked goods and cosmetics. Celebrities promote it as an immune stimulant, skin healing and digestive aid, but there are certain people who should avoid consuming it. Evidence suggests that sea moss may have potent anticoagulant properties, which is why those taking anticoagulant medications should stay away from it.
Additionally, due to the lack of research in specific populations, pregnant and breastfeeding individuals should also abstain from consuming it. Early studies indicate that sea moss may be able to boost the immune system and even protect the body from contracting salmonella. It has also been shown to reduce the accumulation of α-synuclein and reduce stiffness and slowness of movement. In addition to its potential health benefits, sea moss is also a source of carrageenan, a food additive used to thicken certain dairy products and their alternatives that are not dairy.
And, like seaweed and other ocean food sources, sea moss is a good source of iodine, although researchers have warned that consuming more than half a pound (0.63 pounds) would exceed the safe daily limit. The researchers suggest that, based on these findings, sea moss may help improve intestinal health and immune modulation. One of the reasons sea moss has recently been touted as a superfood is that it's a vegan, gluten-free source of many nutrients. Red algae contain a lot of indigestible fiber, which has led researchers to wonder if sea moss can help people who have difficulties with bowel movements. Homotaurin extracts from sea moss could be used in the future to treat disorders in which a T-cell-mediated autoimmune response attacks healthy human tissue.
However, more research is needed to understand all of its health benefits and risks. Therefore, if you are pregnant, nursing, immunosuppressed, or taking blood-thinning medications, you should avoid sea moss. When consumed in normal amounts, sea moss is generally safe and may have health benefits. However, consuming too much Irish moss may mean you're eating too much iodine.
