Kelp
Benefits of Kelp
- Skin
- Metabolism
- Thyroid function
- Where it's from: Cool, temperate waters in both the Northern and Southern Hemisphere.
- Forms: Laminaria Japonica Extract, Fucus Vesiculosis Extract
What is Kelp?
Kelp is a large seaweed that grows on the ocean floor, forming kelp 'forests' in cool coastal waters. Having been used in Japanese cooking for centuries, it has recently become more common in Western diets in the form of a tasty seaweed salad.
Kelp contains a range of vitamins and minerals. Most significantly, kelp is a great source of iodine. It also contains compounds with antioxidant activity, and, like other brown seaweeds, a pigment called 'fucoxanthin'.
What does Kelp do?
Our bodies use iodine for the production of thyroid hormones, which help set our metabolic rate. Iodine contributes to the normal production of thyroid hormones and normal thyroid function. Iodine also contributes to normal energy-yielding metabolism and to the maintenance of normal skin. However, it's important to know that kelp is such a concentrated source of iodine that consuming too much of it can cause problems with the thyroid's functioning.
Antioxidants neutralise 'free radicals', unstable molecules that can damage cells. Researchers have looked at kelp's phenolic content and antioxidant properties, and a fermented kelp extract has been studied in relation to the skin.
Fucoxanthin has been studied in relation to body weight, and a fucoxanthin-containing supplement has been studied for its effect on body and liver fat. Seaweed supplementation has also been studied for its effect on blood glucose (blood sugar) levels, and researchers have reviewed brown seaweeds in relation to metabolic health.
Forms: Laminaria Japonica Extract, Bladderwrack (Fucus vesiculosus) Extract
You may also enjoy reading 'Best foods for thyroid health' and 'Nutritionist's tips for an underactive thyroid'.
Why it's in Stay Calm®
Kelp Extract is a rich source of iodine, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Its high iodine content supports thyroid health, which is essential for managing stress, metabolism, and overall well being.
Thyroid health: The iodine in Kelp supports the normal function of the thyroid gland as well as supports a normal metabolism, which can be affected by chronic stress. Clinical trials have shown Kelp’s ability to improve body composition and thyroid function. A double-blind, placebo-controlled trial showed statistically significant changes in metabolic markers after Kelp supplementation in overweight individuals. These findings may indicate Kelp’s potential in modulating stress-related metabolic disturbances.1
Regulation of cortisol: Kelp Extract has been shown to balance cortisol levels. When raised, cortisol can negatively impact thyroid function, immune response, and overall health, so maintaining balance is essential for stress management.
Antioxidant protection: Kelp is rich in fucoidan and other antioxidants that protect the body from oxidative stress, which can be triggered by chronic stress. Oxidative stress increases cellular damage, ageing, and inflammation. A systematic review of brown seaweeds, including Kelp, highlights their ability to modulate inflammation and oxidative stress. Given that chronic inflammation can exacerbate dysregulated hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis activity, Kelp’s anti-inflammatory properties might indirectly support stress resilience.2
Why it's in MenoFriend®
Kelp is rich in essential nutrients such as iodine, minerals, and antioxidants. It is helpful for managing menopausal symptoms due to its ability to support thyroid function, hormonal balance, and metabolic health. Kelp’s high iodine content helps ensure that the thyroid gland is able to produce enough T3 and T4, improving energy levels and supporting metabolism. Thyroid hormone imbalances can worsen menopausal symptoms such as fatigue, hair thinning, and cognitive issues.
Regulating metabolism and weight: Weight gain and a slower metabolism are common in menopausal women due to changes in thyroid hormone function. Kelp may help improve these issues by supporting thyroid function and regulating metabolic rate.
L-Glycine
L-Glycine is an amino acid that has a calming and regenerative effect, reducing the time it takes to fall asleep, enhancing sleep quality, and reducing feelings of tiredness during the day.
L-Proline
L-Proline is a unique, skin-loving amino acid that is an essential component of collagen production.
Lactobacillus Acidophilus
One of the most clinically trialled bacteria, Acidophilus is a gut-friendly bacteria helping the digestive system break down sugars, such as lactose into lactic acid.
Rosehip
A powerhouse of antioxidants that help preserve collagen, brighten skin tone and reduce redness.
Sea Moss
Seaweeds are naturally rich in bioactive compounds including polyphenols, sterols, alkaloids, flavonoids, proteins with essential amino acids and poly-unsaturated fatty acids. It contains key nutrients including Iron, a lack of which can contribute to tiredness and fatigue.
Selenium
Selenium is an important mineral for the immune system. It also helps maintain healthy hair and nails and is necessary for the use of Iodine in thyroid hormone function.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is vital for our immune system, fighting off infections and in the production of white blood cells. It is also essential for healthy skin, vision and eye health.
Vitamin C
Vitamin C is vital for our immune health, wound healing and for the health of our skin through its central role in collagen production and supporting blood vessels feeding our skin.
