Is sea moss worth the hype?

Sea moss has attracted a lot of attention after Kim Kardashian mentioned it as an ingredient of a smoothie. People have started to consume spoonfuls of sea moss in the belief of its benefits. The superfood is believed to be beneficial for various things ranging from skin to gut health. However, some are still sceptical about the health benefits. 

What is sea moss? 

Sea moss or Irish moss is a kind of red algae that grows along rocky parts of the Atlantic coast of North America and Europe. It is normally used to thicken foods such as ice cream, pudding and other substances. The same as other sea vegetables, sea moss has a lot of nutritional value. It is a vegan source of many vitamins and minerals. One of the reasons it reached popularity is its nutritional benefits. It is high in fibre and low in calories, sugar and fat. However, most of that fat is the nutritious type of fat that helps with cholesterol levels.

What are the benefits of sea moss?

As a result of the nutritional values of sea moss, it shows some benefits. Because of the fibre it contains, it improves gut health. Some studies show that certain components of sea moss allow it to act as a probiotic in support of gut health. It helps in providing good bacteria in the gut. Contrary to popular belief it does not speed up the metabolism. It does not help with weight loss any more than a balanced diet. 

The thyroid needs iodine to produce hormones however, it is not made naturally in the body. Therefore one needs to get iodine from their diet. Iodine content differs, however generally most adults can get their daily need of iodine from dairy products and seafood. Sea moss could be considered a supplement for those who do not include such food in their diet. 

It is also said that due to the vitamins and minerals it contains, sea moss could boost immunity. For the same reason sea moss is believed to clear skin and overall prevent acne by fighting against the bacteria that cause them to appear. While some researchers would agree, most say that there are not enough studies done to understand the effects of sea moss thoroughly. 

Sea moss is used as an ingredient in various types of skincare products. Due to its recent popularity, it can be seen in serums, face masks and moisturisers. However, it is not advised to use sea moss gel directly on the skin, not at least without testing for allergies. Leaving the gel on the skin for too long could also result in irritation.

Sea moss is also high in antioxidants, which help in the protection of free radicals. Free radicals are damaging molecules that may develop into chronic diseases. Therefore by preventing free radicals, sea moss prevents certain chronic diseases from developing. Yet due to the lack of clinical data, no certain statement could be made.

Sea moss is also believed to provide more strength and energy. This is due to the high protein and amino acids, which help with muscle health. It is beneficial in maintaining muscle health and building muscles. It also helps with the recovery of the micro tears. 

Is there a downside to consuming sea moss?

As it is with everything, there are side effects of consuming too much sea moss. While iodine has positive effects, taking more than the necessary amount has negative effects. Too much iodine causes an imbalance of thyroid hormones and leads to thyroid dysfunction.

It also contains heavy metals that it collects from the water in which it grows. Heavy metal is highly harmful and should not be taken in big amounts, for it could be toxication for the body. 

Are the supplements worth it?

Sea moss is made into various supplements such as capsules, gels, powders and gummies. They are mostly sold as a dietary supplement, which in itself is a problem. It’s worth keeping in mind that the ingredients provided on the products are not always very trustworthy. Still taking a sea moss supplement, the recommended amount by your healthcare provider could be beneficial. 

The most important thing to remember is that no supplement or product could cover up a bad diet. The most beneficial thing one could do for their body is to keep a balanced healthy diet and exercise plan.