Everything You Need to Know About Irish Sea Moss

If you’ve been researching the subject of vitamin, mineral, and hormone supplements, there’s a good chance you’ve come across sea moss.

In this article, we’ll describe what it is, what benefits it offers, and whether or not it has any side effects.

This is your guide to Irish sea moss.

What Is Irish Sea Moss?

While it’s called moss, it’s actually a type of seaweed that’s found along the coastlines of Britain, Ireland, and North America. It likes inlets and tidepools, which is where it most commonly grows.

One of the primary uses for Irish sea moss is as a food thickening agent. The active ingredient is carrageenan, which is used to give ice cream, cottage cheese, and jelly their thick, dense consistencies.

Strangely, sea moss is rarely green. Sometimes, it’s yellow and green, but it’s not unusual to find it in a deep purple.

While research into the health benefits is still ongoing, there is evidence to suggest that this type of seaweed can offer multiple benefits if it’s consumed regularly.

The Benefits of Irish Sea Moss

Irish Sea Moss is an exciting “superfood” that has become a viral sensation in recent years. Countless celebrities have shared their healthy smoothies and snacks made with the plant, including Kim Kardashian!

We’ve been consuming Irish sea moss for years, but are we getting serious health benefits for our efforts? Let’s take a look.

Irish Sea Moss Might Be Effective at Fighting Parkinson’s Disease

There is limited evidence to suggest that Irish sea moss may be able to slow down the progression of Parkinson’s. One study involving the use of worms showed that sea moss extract successfully reduced stiffness and increased speed of movement. There is no conclusive evidence that this works on humans, but some studies are already underway.

Irish Sea Moss May Improve Thyroid Health

One of the most bountiful ingredients in sea moss is iodine – a substance that’s known to improve thyroid function. If you suffer from hypothyroidism, your body isn’t making sufficient hormones, which can affect your metabolism. By consuming Irish sea moss regularly, you may be able to replace those lost hormones and return your body’s metabolism to normal. However, it’s important to consult your doctor before proceeding.

Irish Sea Moss May Boost Your Immune System

A few studies have shown that sea moss may be beneficial to the human immune system. There are also signs that the seaweed can protect people from contracting the salmonella bug. Sea moss grows in some of the world’s harshest environments, so it has had to develop some pretty fierce defense mechanisms over the years. It is believed that the phytochemicals in sea moss provide immune modulation and enhanced immune responses within the human body.

Irish Sea Moss May Be Good for Gut Health

There may be some benefits to gut health, thanks to the prebiotic effects of consuming sea moss regularly. Rich in fiber and oligosaccharides, this relatively abundant type of seaweed delivers the healthy bacteria the human digestive system needs to perform optimally. While the research behind this claim was based on animal studies, the signs are positive. Research on human subjects continues.

Irish Sea Moss May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

There are some substances in sea moss that are known to have anti-cancer properties. One in particular is fucoxanthin, which has been shown to reduce the risk factors associated with cancers of the colon and rectum. While more research is needed, the signs are positive.

Irish Sea Moss May Regulate Your Blood Sugar Levels

While it’s not a magic wand in the fight against diabetes and the effects of irregular blood sugar levels, Irish sea moss may support blood sugar regulation – potentially reducing your chances of developing type 2 diabetes. The compounds responsible for the processes involved are fucoxanthin and carotenoid, both of which play a role in reducing insulin resistance. In addition, sea moss’s high fiber content can help regulate digestion speed.

Irish Sea Moss May Offer Cardiovascular Benefits

Put simply, sea moss is a fantastic source of omega-3 fatty acids. And as many people know, these natural compounds play a pivotal role in heart and vascular health. Seaweeds such as sea moss may, according to research, improve your natural cholesterol levels and provide blood-thinning properties – both of which can reduce your chances of developing heart disease. More research on humans is needed, but the initial signs are positive.

Is Irish Sea Moss Safe?

Yes, when sea moss is consumed moderately as part of a balanced diet, the iodine contained within it can deliver a range of health benefits. However, there are some side effects associated with excess iodine consumption. The symptoms of over-consumption include a strange taste in the mouth, skin problems, the over-production of saliva, and digestive problems.

• Inflammation
• Bloating
• Food allergies
• Glucose intolerance
• Gut problems

The carrageenan in sea moss may also cause some side effects, although the chances of developing any of them are very low if you stick to the recommended daily allowance.

If you’re taking blood-thinning medication like warfarin, your doctor or dietitian might advise you to monitor your intake of vitamin K-rich foods – including seaweed – to maintain consistent levels. Seaweed is also high in potassium, so if you're on medications that increase potassium in your blood, be cautious with how much you eat. Also, consult your doctor before taking sea moss supplements.

Seaweed can absorb and store large amounts of minerals, and sometimes it can accumulate harmful heavy metals like cadmium, mercury, aluminum, and lead. Although the risk is generally low, it's best to consume sea moss in moderation.

So, Is Irish Sea Moss Good for Me?

Yes, overall, the benefits of consuming Irish sea moss in moderation and as part of a balanced diet far outweigh any potential drawbacks. Rich in fiber, iodine, omega-3 fatty acids and a range of vitamins, it’s a “superfood” that promotes blood sugar regulation and a healthy gut!