Spirulina and kelp
Spirulina is a single-celled microorganism founding water that is rich in chlorophyll. This is the plant pigment that gives lakes and ponds the dark blue-green color. Kelp, on the other hand, is brown algae that are found only in the sea.
Rockweed is a type of kelp that is cultivated for dietary supplements and health drinks in the United States. This kelp is olive green in color and measures 3 to 6 feet long. This is different from the kelp you see awash in the shore. Both spirulina and kelp are dubbed as miracle cures. Spirulina and kelp are known as good cure for arthritis pain, boost energy, enhance immunity, improve liver function, prevent heart disease and cancer, suppress AIDS, control appetite and guard against cell damage due to exposure to X-rays and heavy metals. But there is little evidence to support these claims as of the moment. But spirulina and kelp do provide some health benefits due to its essential nutrient content such as carotenoids, protein and minerals. And they can be a nutritious part of vegetarian or macrobiotic diet. Spirulina and kelp have other known health benefits too, which are the following:
§ Spirulina and kelp control bad breath. The high chlorophyll content found in spirulina makes it excellent for bad breath not caused by gum disease or chronic sinusitis. It is often used in breath fresheners.
§ They cure thyroid problems. Kelp is rich in iodine. But before trying spirulina and kelp supplement better consult your doctor first since you need to undergo blood tests for thyroid problems.
Spirulina and kelp are available in tablet, powder, liquid and capsule formulations. There are three options in treating bad breath using spirulina and kelp:
Ø Use chlorophyll-rich liquid breath freshener that has spirulina as its primary ingredient. Then use as specified in the label.
Ø Combine 1 teaspoon spirulina powder into half a glass or 4 ounces of water, rinse the mouth and swallow the solution.
Ø Chew spirulina tablets three or four times a day.
To treat iodine-deficient hypothyroidism, take 10 grains of powdered kelp which has 300 mcg of iodine. To get the most effect out of spirulina and kelp, take the formulation with food to prevent stomach upset. Check expiry date of any kelp supplement because iodine potency lessens over time. Large doses of kelp could impede the effectiveness of some thyroid medications.
Spirulina and kelp can cause possible side effects like nausea and diarrhea. Lower or stop the dose altogether if you notice these symptoms. Sensitivity to iodine could lead to painful and enlarged thyroid if kelp is consumed for several weeks or months although this case rarely occurs (about 3%). As an added precaution, do not take spirulina and kelp that you find in beach or in the pond because these could be contaminated and could contain high levels of lead, mercury, cadmium and other toxins which are harmful to the body. Pregnant or lactating women should refrain from taking high concentrations of iodine because it could be harmful.
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