Various types of kelp have been eaten for its nutritional value for over a thousand years. The Chinese used kelp and other types of seaweed for medicine as far back as 3,000 B.C. People in Greece used kelp to feed their livestock around the first century B.C. and Icelanders have depended on it as a main source of nutrition for centuries. To date, the Japanese and Chinese are currently studying the Anti-tumor effects it has on various forms of cancer. Different species, such as Lamaria japanica and Undaria pinnatifida have been shown to stop cancer cell growth in multiple controlled studies..
We know that you can easily find kelp at any restaurant that offers Asian cuisine but where does kelp come from? Kelp grows in shallow salt water, and can differ in color and flavor. The main ingredients of kelp are phenolic compounds, plant proteins, carbohydrates, and essential fatty acids. It’s also full of essential vitamins and minerals like:
Kelp has also been labeled a superfood because of its high iodine content which is essential for optimal thyroid function and metabolism. Aside from the amazing mineral and vitamin properties of kelp, it helps oceans by removing excessive phosphorus, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide! Other functions of kelp include a richness in amino acids, minerals, and vitamins that help aid the body. Today, kelp is no longer just used as thickening agents in food or to feed cattle. We now store it in our medicine cabinets across the globe for a healthy body and mind.
The thyroid gland (located at the front of the neck), creates hormones which are sent through the body to multiple key areas that rely on healthy hormone levels. The thyroid, which is connected to the spinal cord, is very important because it communicates to your body how food should be administered to different areas and how that food should be regulated for energy. The hormones from the thyroid play a key role in how quickly your body metabolizes food which affects emotions, energy, and how your brain functions.
Statistics show that millions of people in the United States have a thyroid disorder and roughly 50% of those diagnosed have depression which is caused by their thyroid malfunctioning. The Consumer Report estimates that ten-percent of women over the age of 60 have a thyroid disorder that could develop into an autoimmune disease over time. Studies show that women have thyroid issues more often than men do. Your thyroid can either be over or underactive and veering to either side of that spectrum can cause debilitating emotional and physical ailments.
Thankfully, kelp has natural iodine in its make-up, allowing the thyroid to absorb its nutrients and prevent harmful radioactive iodine into the body. Iodine is vital for thyroid function because it helps in the production of thyroid hormone. According to The Iodine Crisis by Lynne Farrow, iodine is an essential micronutrient needed by every cell in the body. Because your body does not produce iodine, it needs to be supplied in the diet. When iodine intake is poor, the body cannot produce enough thyroid hormones.
Studies on isolated cells indicate that a compound found in kelp called Fucoidan may also help prevent the spread of lung cancer and prostate cancer. Fucoidan-containing seaweeds have a rich history of medicinal and therapeutic uses. The earliest records have been found at Monte Verde in Chile, where archaeological digs uncovered evidence of their use dating back to 12000 BC! Ancient medicinal uses were also found in ancient Greek and Roman civilizations.
Fucoidans also support healthy immune function, provide cardiovascular support and may keep certain levels of inflammation within a healthy range. Kelp is also extremely high in vitamin C which helps send a spike in production of immune-boosting proteins into your cells. The vitamin c found in kelp then forms a network that leads to a strong immune system. Vitamin C also neutralizes free radicals that can damage cells.
Taken internally, the vitamin C in Kelp can also help to support collagen formation, which is responsible for the elasticity of the skin. As we talked about above, kelp also contains minerals like zinc and selenium which support the overall health of your skin. Topically it can
- Helps calm and soothe dry skin. Sea Kelp Extract in skincare is perfect for anyone with dry and flaky patches of skin, due to its high iodine content. It’s mineral and antioxidant rich, and is known to help soften and hydrate dry skin. Not only that, but it also helps your skin retain moisture, keeping it hydrated for longer.
- Helps reduce the appearance of breakouts. Sea Kelp contains minerals that penetrate the skin and remove toxins. It also helps reduce redness and rid your skin of toxins, leaving you with clearer pores.
- Works as an amazing anti-aging ingredient. Sea Kelp is rich in antioxidants, which are known to help protect your skin against harmful UVA rays and pollution. Protecting your skin with kelp will help slow down the aging process and keep your skin feeling younger for longer!
Kelp is truly a gift from the sea. Rich in nearly every vitamin and mineral you need to maintain a healthy body and mind. You can find kelp in various foods but one of our favorite ways to keep up with our kelp intake is with Radiate Immunity. Jam packed with 18 botanicals, we made sure to add kelp to the list due to its ancient medicinal benefits that have been used for centuries. Start Radiating Immunity today!
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