howtosupplement
Hormonal/Digestion/Immunity

Sea moss

Red algae supplement providing iodine and trace minerals, traditionally used for thyroid and digestive support.

Sea moss

Sea moss

30
score
D
evidence
Caution
risk

Proven Benefits

01May support thyroid function
02May support digestive health
03May support immune function
04May soothe respiratory mucosa

Chemical Forms

Recommended
  • Wildcrafted whole algae
  • Organic sea moss capsules
  • Sea moss gel (rehydrated)
Avoid
  • Products with added carrageenan extract (not whole food)
  • Unverified source (heavy metal risk)
Expert Note

Whole, unextracted sea moss provides a matrix of minerals and fiber distinct from isolated carrageenan used as a food additive. Wild-harvested and third-party-tested products are preferred because seaweeds can concentrate heavy metals like arsenic and cadmium from ocean water.

Protocol

Amount
10-20 g rehydrated gel or 1000-2000 mg dry powder
Frequency
Once daily
When
With meals to improve tolerability.

Safety & Limits

Upper Safe Limit
No official UL for sea moss; iodine content should not exceed 1100 mcg/day (IOM adult UL for iodine)
Cycling
Safe for continuous use

Contraindications

Hyperthyroidism or Graves' disease — excess iodine can worsen condition
Hypothyroidism on levothyroxine — unpredictable iodine intake disrupts dosing
Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto's) — iodine fluctuations may trigger flare-ups
Pregnancy and breastfeeding — insufficient safety data and variable iodine content
Shellfish or iodine allergy — potential cross-reactivity or sensitivity

Avoid Combining With

  • ✕Levothyroxine and thyroid drugs (variable iodine alters hormone levels)
  • ✕Additional iodine or kelp supplements (increases overdose risk)
  • ✕Anticoagulant medications — theoretical interaction due to antiplatelet polysaccharides
Updated Invalid Date