Sea moss, also known as Irish moss, is a type of red algae that has been used for centuries as a natural remedy for various ailments. It is gaining popularity as a supplement due to its potential health benefits, such as aiding in weight loss, improving heart health, and supporting the immune system. While sea moss is generally considered safe, it is important to understand the potential risks and side effects associated with consuming it. The nutrients in sea moss can vary depending on the environment in which it was grown.
It may contain high levels of iodine or heavy metals, so it is important to not exceed 1,100 micrograms of iodine per day. Ingesting raw sea moss in moderation is generally fine, but doing so in excess could expose you to toxins and heavy metals. Most of the time, sea moss is thought to be healthy, although it contains inconsistent amounts of good nutrients and some less healthy elements. Companies also sell sea moss as a component of supplements combined with turmeric, fucus and burdock root, and claim that this combination benefits general well-being, especially immune, thyroid, digestive and joint health.
TikTok influencers recommend sea moss to their followers, promoting its supposed benefits for cleansing the skin, helping you breathe better and eliminating toxins from the body. A study showed that Atlantic salmon that ate sea moss had a more efficient immune response than salmon that didn't.If you're thinking about taking sea moss supplements, it's important to talk to your healthcare provider first. Animal and test tube studies on seaweed, not specifically on sea moss, suggest that it may benefit weight loss, heart health and blood sugar control, as well as thyroid, gut and immune system health. However, these side effects are relatively rare and most people can safely enjoy the benefits of sea moss without any problem.
In addition, red algae, such as sea moss, are full of antioxidants which are compounds that help protect cells from oxidative damage that causes diseases. Keep in mind that sea moss is generally considered safe but as with any new supplement it's always best to start slowly and increase the dose gradually. Studies that have focused on sea moss in particular mainly support the idea that when consumed in supplement form these algae can benefit gut health says Kristin Kirkpatrick RDN who works at the Cleveland Clinic Wellness Institute based in Denver Colorado. Irish sea moss arrived in Jamaica in the 19th century after the potato famine in Ireland and became a remedy for colds and lung diseases. As with seaweed the nutritional value of sea moss can vary greatly making it difficult to know exactly what it contains and in what quantities. Sea moss also seems to be gaining popularity as an ingredient in natural skin care products although research on this use is lacking. Taking sea moss above the recommended amount of 1 to 2 tablespoons per day for adults can cause side effects from gastrointestinal disorders to metal toxicity and poisoning.
