If you are familiar with the latest wellness trends and also enjoy taking your vitamins and minerals in gummy form, you must have heard of the sea gum trend. Even celebrities like Bella Hadid are on the trend—the model drinks seaweed gel every morning.
Created using seaweed, a type of seaweed that grows off the coasts of Europe, the UK and North America, these gums can contain vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and polyunsaturated fats. But is it really worth adding seaweed gum to your wellness routine? Let's look at the benefits and risks.
What are seaweed chews?
The way moss gummies are made can vary between recipes, but they generally have many similarities, starting with their main ingredient: yes, it's seaweed. It is common to see these gums made with sweeteners, added flavors, fruit juice concentrates, glycerol, pectin, and processed algae. However, simple versions with more minimalist ingredients can also be found. Those who are adventurous in the kitchen can even buy seaweed gel to make gummies at home.
When seaweed gums are made, the moss is first processed into a gel, then heated and mixed with juice and a binding agent such as agar agar or glycerol. At this stage, sweeteners, added vitamins and other ingredients are mixed into the mixture. Once thoroughly incorporated, the contents are poured into a chewable mold and refrigerated. The starter gel is made by soaking the seaweed in clean water for up to two days before mixing, then refrigerate until it thickens into a gel substance.
How do seaweed chews work?
The human body uses 102 different minerals and nutrients to sustain itself. Seaweed tires contain 92 of these 102, according to brands like Wixar Naturals, Naturals by Dr. T and SVNNA. The high concentration of the body's nutrient needs is a large part of why seaweed is considered a superfood. The bioavailability of seaweed gums and their health benefits are still being researched, but they contain many highly bioavailable components. The bioavailability of a food is how easy it is for your body to break down that food and extract the essential nutrients from it. The more bioavailable something is, the easier it is for your body to digest and absorb.
There are some potential positives overall health effectsbut there are also some risks you should be aware of. On a positive note, research may indicate that kelp gum can help alleviate arthritis, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and ocular and cardiovascular disease. One of the most significant risks to be aware of is high level of iodine in algae. If you use seaweed gummies, it is essential that you follow the recommended dosages and do not exceed the daily recommended iodine intake. Those with thyroid disorders, those who are breastfeeding and those who are pregnant should be especially careful.
Potential benefits of seaweed gum
Seaweed chewing gum has a plethora of potential health benefits. The following list attempts to cover as many of these benefits as possible, but may still be discovered through ongoing research. It is also important to note that while Irish Seaweed is known to contain all of these beneficial nutrients, there is not enough research available to say that the supplements and gummy forms of Irish Seaweed (which are processed) have the same nutritional and antimicrobial properties like Irish sea moss itself.
Rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants
The type of algae used in seaweed gum contains 92 of the 102 minerals and nutrients the human body needs. These foods are also rich in antioxidants, providing several general health benefits for the immune system, eye health, brain function, and more.
Potential immune boosting properties
Seaweed contains many aspects that can indirectly help the immune system. Antioxidants, as mentioned above, are part of this. This algae also contains prebiotics and is rich in fiber, which can work together to improve gut healththus promoting a healthier immune system. Seaweed also has several minerals and nutrients that can aid in immune system functionality.
Digestive support
Seaweed balls can aid digestion due to their high concentrations of fiber and prebiotics, which can work to improve gut health and functionality.
Contribution to skin care and hair health
Seaweed contains many components that can help with the health and beauty of skin, hair and nails. Many of these components work together to help the body collagen productionwhich plays a significant role in the health and appearance of our skin, hair and nails. In addition to vitamins and minerals, this superfood also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can help with skin health, hair strength, and nail durability.
It can reduce the risk of cancer
Some the research showed the positive benefits of using seaweed extracts to fight cancer cells in mice. These studies look into the possibility of using algae to create anti-cancer agents. More research may be needed, but scientists have found promise in using anti-cancer agents from seaweed to help treat colon and breast cancer.
The risks of seaweed chewing gum
While there are many potential health benefits to consider, there are also some risks and potential side effects to be aware of.
Potential drug interactions
If you take medication, it is always wise to speak with your prescribing physician before adding any other health supplements, prescriptions, or medications to your health routine. Seaweed is known to interfere with some thyroid-regulating medications. If you take medication for your thyroid, talk to your doctor before considering kelp chews.
Allergic reactions in some individuals
People can have and develop food allergies to almost any food. Before trying a new type of food, it's a good idea to test your response to it. If you're not sure about your food allergies, talk to an allergy specialist first.
Risks of overconsumption
Because seaweed contains high levels of iodine and heavy metals, excessive consumption of this superfood can lead to health risks. If you use seaweed gum, make sure you don't exceed the recommended daily allowances and be aware of how much iodine and heavy metals you consume from other sources.
Contamination problems in low quality products
A product is only as good as the source materials and its production. Lower quality products may have the risk of contaminants mixing with ingredients at various stages of production. Also note that since seaweed is not regulated by the FDA in raw or supplement form, it is not possible to know the quality of what you are purchasing.
Lack of information
There isn't much information about seaweed out there. Also, most studies on seaweed have been conducted on animals, not humans. More research is needed.
Potential side effects of seaweed gum
While seaweed chews are a superfood and possess many potential health benefits, they can also have unwanted side effects in some situations:
- Iodine toxicity: The high levels of iodine in seaweed can lead to toxic build-up in the body if you over-consume kelp chews.
- Toxicity of heavy metals: The high levels of heavy metals in seaweed can lead to toxic build-up in the body if you over-consume seaweed chews.
- Digestive difficulties: Some individuals have a severe intestinal reaction that can result in diarrhea, nausea, stomach pain, and vomiting.
- Intestinal inflammation: Because seaweed is heavy carrageenanthese supplements can result in intestinal inflammation and bloating in some people.
Who are sea gum best for?
Individuals who want to improve their overall health and well-being
Because this superfood is so loaded with nutritional benefits and potential health effects, it can be beneficial for those looking to improve overall health and wellness. Remember, however, that it is always best to speak with a medical professional before attempting to treat any illness and that health supplements are not a substitute for medical treatment or expertise.
Those who want to increase their nutrient intake naturally
Seaweed gums provide great nutritional value even without their other potential health benefits. These supplements may be a good choice for those interested in increasing their nutrient intake through natural sources.
Vegans and vegetarians looking for plant-based supplements
Seaweed gummies are primarily made from vegan-friendly ingredients and can provide a good source of vitamins and nutrients for vegans and vegetarians looking for plant-based supplements.
Who should avoid chewing seaweed?
People on specific medications that may interact with seaweed
Before adding a supplement to your routine, always consult your doctor if you are taking medication. Seaweed chews are known to interact negatively with some thyroid medications, but such adverse reactions may not be limited to these medications.
Pregnant or breastfeeding (unless approved by a healthcare provider)
In general, it is strongly recommended that women who are pregnant or breastfeeding avoid consuming seaweed gum because of their iodine content. Your healthcare provider may release you in such circumstances, but you should always talk to them first to avoid putting your health or the health of your unborn child at risk.