Kelp and Hypothyroidism

Can Kelp Improve Thyroid Function and Result in Weight Loss?

Many people believe that an underactive thyroid and its associated weight gain can be treated by taking kelp supplements. This belief is based on the theory that iodine, which kelp supplements contain a lot of, can treat an underactive thyroid, also known as hypothyroidism. This belief stems from the fact that in the developing world, iodine deficiency is a leading cause of thyroid disease and goiters. While this is true for the developing world, iodine deficiencies are extremely rare in the developed countries of the Western world such as America, since common foods such as salt are fortified with iodine.

In America, the vast majority of thyroid disease is not caused by iodine deficiency. In fact, a Kelp thyroid treatment is probably a bad idea for most Americans, since thyroid glands are sensitive to excess iodine and it could actually aggravate and irritate the thyroid. The results for kelp and hypothyroidism might be great in developing countries, but in America this treatment doesn't make sense, and you should be very careful about taking kelp supplements.

If you have hypothyroidism, it is important to take a thyroid replacement hormone. You should also use one of the natural treatments that are proven to boost thyroid function. By using these 2 methods, you should be able to get your thyroid functioning normally again, gain energy by boosting your metabolism, plus lose weight in the process.

 

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