Kelp tablets

Health Canada has advised consumers against using some products containing iodine (SEAVITE Premium Atlantic Kelp tablets), since these products, when consumed according to the label instructions, can provide 25 times the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of iodine for adults this could lead to serious adverse health consequences (9). The RDA for iodine ranges from 90... 

De Smet, P., Strieker, B., Wilderink, F., and Wiersinga, W. 1990. Hyperthyroidism during treatment with kelp tablets [Dutch], Nederlands Tijdschrift Geneeskunde 134, 1058-1059. 

Hartman, A. 1990. Hyperthyroidism during administration of kelp tablets. [Dutch]. Ned. Tijdschrift... 

In contrast, Rauma et al (1994) found that, although the daily consumption of kelp tablets ensured a sufficient intake of iodine, the use of such supplements may lead to excessive iodine intake. In addition, Key et al (1992) observed that vegans who regularly took kelp supplements had markedly raised concentrations of thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) as a result of excessive iodine intake. Thus, it has been suggested that the high iodine content of kelp tablets may cause hyperthyroidism in susceptible individuals. 

Salas Coronas, J., G. Cruz Caparros, F. Laynez Bretones, and F. EHez Garcia. 2002. [Hyp>erthyroidism secondary to kelp tablets ingestias.] Med. Clin. (Bare.) 118(20) 797-798. 

Kelp tablets—Just about every brand of these tablets contains an amount of iodine equal to the U.S. RD/ s for adults (150 meg per day) in each tablet. It is not wise to exceed this amount because people who have tendencies to develop goiter are extra susceptible to iodine toxicity. Those who have suffered from dietary iodine deficiency may have thyroid glands which have adapted to low intakes of the mineral by becoming very efficient in the production of thyroid hormones. Thus, their glands may overproduce these hormones when the dietary level of iodine is raised. 

Kelp A seaweed that is rich in iodine. Available in tablet or powder form. As an iodine supplement to prevent a deficiency of the mineral. Very ricb source of iodine. Consumption should be limited to amounts which provide the BOA for iodine. (Toe much iodine may be toxic.)... 

Uses— Seaweed has many important uses. Mention has already Ereen made of seaweed as a staple food for humans and animals. For human food, kelp can be used in a variety of ways. In powdered form, it can Ere added to soups, salads, cottage cheese, tomato juice, fruit juices, or sprinkled on baked potatoes. Some persons use it as a salt suErstitute. Also, it is made into tablets and sold as a mineral-vitamin supplement in health food stores. About 25% of all food consumed in Japan consists of one form or another of seaweed (sea-vegetable), prepared and served in many forms. 

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