If you’ve heard about bladderwrack and sea moss, you’re probably wondering what all the hype is. Maybe you heard about Dr. Sebi and the joint repair he experienced. Perhaps someone told you sea moss contains over 90 of the 102 minerals our bodies need to thrive.
While these things are wonderfully true, the bladderwrack-sea moss combo has a lesser known benefit that deserves a closer look.
That benefit?
Proper thyroid function.
To understand how these 2 superfoods work to support the thyroid, let’s first look at their individual nutritional profiles.
BENEFITS OF BLADDERWRACK
Used as an herbal remedy and culinary element, bladderwrack has been a traditional part of herbal medicine for centuries. Scientifically known as Fucus vesiculosus, you may also hear it called rockweed, red fucus or black tang. Among the most common of all ocean seaweeds, it’s a rich source of beta-carotene, potassium and many other organic compounds that make it a true superfood.
Because of its wide range of constituents, the benefits of bladderwrack are equally extensive. Able to slow macular degeneration, this seaweed is a natural way to improve vision (thank you, beta-carotene). It’s also a powerful anti-inflammatory, making it useful in treating arthritis, gout and more. Other benefits include:
- Promotes healthy digestion
- Aids in weight loss via increased metabolism
- Reduces risk of coronary disease
- Slows signs of aging
It even contains a unique fiber called “fucoidan” whose primary function is to regulate cell growth, making it a valuable player in cancer prevention. In the same light, research has also shown it to have anti-tumor properties.
SEA MOSS BENEFITS
Sea moss, or Irish moss, is another sea vegetable that grows on rocks close to shore. Popular for its anti-viral properties, it’s been used throughout Europe for decades. For the Irish, it’s become the standard method in helping those suffering from malnutrition. It features 15 essential minerals, including selenium, calcium, potassium and magnesium. It’s also abundant in Vitamins D, F, A, E and K. Useful in boosting overall health, the benefits of sea moss most commonly include:
- Fights iron deficiency
- Dissolves mucus
- Improves mental health
- Reduces effects of radiation
- Aids in weight loss
WHY USE BLADDERWRACK AND SEA MOSS FOR YOUR THYROID?
On top of all their other uses, sea moss and bladderwrack share a common trait. Both contain vital hormone precursors - the substances our bodies use to manufacture thyroid hormones.
One of the most important functions of the thyroid is to produce thyroid hormones, which directly affect your body’s metabolism rate. As such, it plays a direct role in several other processes throughout the body.
If your thyroid doesn’t produce hormones like it should, your entire body can be thrown out of whack, and it can’t produce them without those essential hormone precursors. That’s where bladderwrack and sea moss come in.
Actually, raw sea moss is the world’s only plant-based source of thyroid hormones. If that was all it did or contained, that’d be enough to realize its value for thyroid health.
But there’s more.
Both Irish moss and bladderwrack contain high levels of iodine – a mineral that’s necessary for proper thyroid function. Iodine is particularly important in hypothyroidism. In fact, sea moss was the original source of iodine for thyroid issues in the 19th century when scientists and doctors discovered it could relieve hypothyroid symptoms.
HOW TO TAKE SEA MOSS AND BLADDERWRACK TOGETHER
Although synthetic hormones are available to treat hypothyroidism, many people prefer the natural route. Alternative treatments from substances found in nature are often just as effective and come with fewer side effects.
Bladderwrack and sea moss can be taken together either as capsules or in a tea made from powders – both of which are readily available. With a sea moss/bladderwrack mix in powder form, you can add it to smoothies, shakes and teas.
However, some people find the super fishy smell and taste a bit unappetizing. That’s where capsules can be more beneficial. You get the same powerful nutrients without having to deal with the taste.
It's important to note that neither bladderwrack nor sea moss should be used in cases of hyperthyroidism. In this case, the thyroid is already producing too many hormones and shouldn’t be stimulated further.
As with any herbal remedy, it’s recommended to check with your healthcare provider before adding bladderwrack or sea moss to your daily regimen.
Recommendation:
2 capsules every morning with a full glass of water.