Evidence supporting the use of: Sea vegetable (unspecified)
For the health condition: Goiter

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Sea vegetables, such as kelp, nori, and wakame, are used to support or treat goiter primarily due to their high iodine content. Goiter, an enlargement of the thyroid gland, is most commonly caused by iodine deficiency, which impairs thyroid hormone synthesis. Historically, populations living far from the sea, where dietary iodine is scarce, have been more prone to goiter, and the consumption of iodine-rich sea vegetables has been a traditional remedy.

Scientifically, iodine is an essential micronutrient required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Numerous studies have demonstrated that iodine supplementation can reverse or prevent simple goiter caused by iodine deficiency. Sea vegetables are among the richest natural sources of iodine, and their inclusion in the diet can help correct iodine deficiency. For example, research published in the journal Thyroid and by the World Health Organization supports iodine supplementation as a preventive and therapeutic measure for goiter. However, the iodine content in sea vegetables can be highly variable and sometimes excessive, which may pose risks of thyroid dysfunction if consumed in large quantities.

While there is strong scientific consensus on the role of iodine in preventing and treating goiter, and sea vegetables are a potent natural source, care is needed to avoid excessive intake. There is less evidence supporting the use of sea vegetables for goiters not caused by iodine deficiency (e.g., autoimmune thyroid disease). Thus, the evidence rating is 3, reflecting moderate scientific support with some limitations regarding safety and specificity of use.

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