The Benefit Of Seaweed In Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism affects millions of people in the US alone, and is a condition responsible for draining every aspect of their wellbeing. Those with an underactive thyroid experience fatigue, circulation problems, hair loss, brittle nails and swelling of the legs. All of this leads to a deflated sense of mental wellness that can seem impossible to shake, with depression, listlessness and memory loss following as the emotional symptoms of the condition. The failure of the thyroid gland to produce enough hormones to keep the bodily system running as it should is associated with an iodine deficiency in the body, so treatment for the condition often focuses on correcting this.

Dr. Pina LoGiudice recently appeared on a health segment of the popular US TV programme ‘The Dr. Oz Show’. Her segment featured alternative or complementary medicines that usually received insufficient publicity, due to the dominance of the pharmaceutical industry. Her main recommendation regarded the treatment of hypothyroidism and she showcased the benefits of a species of seaweed to sufferers of the condition. Bladderwrack, also known by its Latin name ‘Fucus vesiculous’ is one of a species of seaweeds that evolved special air sacs in order to lift them to the surface of the water. It is quite literally packed with nutrients, including magnesium, potassium and micronutrients. Most significant among these is iodine, of which it is a potent source.

Thanks to its iodine content, Bladderwrack has been used as a thyroid stimulant since the 1800s. Today, it is included in herbal dieting supplements, in the belief that it increases metabolism. Dr. Pina LoGiudice recommends that a daily dose of 3 grams will prove highly beneficial to those suffering hypothyroidism. This totally natural supplement seems to provide a promising solution; however, as with all complementary medicine, do inform your doctor before using it.

It is important to be aware that Bladderwrack is not a supplement subject to quality control. As a naturally occurring seaweed, the seaside areas in which it is found are often heavily polluted with arsenic and other heavy metals. Safeguard yourself from this risk by ensuring that you purchase a top-of-the-range product that has been harvested from clean water. It is also good to be aware that the iodine content of Bladderwrack can vary, which entails a slight risk of abnormal thyroid function. Certain individuals can also experience an allergic reaction when first trying this product. It remains to be seen whether Bladderwrack or other species of seaweeds could be developed into a reliable medical product. In the meantime, consider it carefully among the other iodine-rich foods that could help to balance your thyroid.