Evidence supporting the use of: Kelp fiber
For the body system: Thyroid Gland

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Synopsis

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

Kelp fiber, derived from various large seaweeds of the order Laminariales, is often used to support thyroid health because it is a natural source of iodine. Iodine is an essential trace element required for the synthesis of thyroid hormones (thyroxine/T4 and triiodothyronine/T3), which regulate numerous metabolic processes in the body. Scientific evidence supports the relationship between adequate iodine intake and normal thyroid function. In iodine-deficient regions, supplementation with iodine—sometimes through kelp or other seaweeds—has been shown to prevent or reverse conditions like goiter and hypothyroidism.

However, the use of kelp specifically as a supplement is not without concerns. The iodine content of kelp can be highly variable, sometimes exceeding the recommended daily allowance and posing a risk of iodine excess, which can also disrupt thyroid function or trigger autoimmune thyroid disease in susceptible individuals. While kelp’s efficacy as a natural iodine source is supported by scientific understanding of thyroid physiology and by studies demonstrating the benefit of correcting iodine deficiency, there is less direct clinical trial evidence evaluating kelp fiber supplements themselves for thyroid support.

In summary, there is scientific rationale for the use of kelp (due to its iodine content) to support thyroid health, particularly in cases of iodine deficiency, but direct evidence for kelp fiber supplements is limited and their use should be monitored to avoid excessive iodine intake.

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