Get Your Personalized Supplement StackSupplement Stack Quiz

Organic Irish Sea Moss Powder

Also known as: Irish Sea Moss, Sea Moss, Carrageen Moss, Chondrus crispus

Overview

Organic Irish Sea Moss Powder, derived from the red seaweed *Chondrus crispus*, is a dietary supplement gaining popularity for its rich nutrient profile. Harvested mainly from the Atlantic coasts, it contains iodine, vitamins (A, B2, C, E, B12), minerals (calcium, magnesium, potassium), and bioactive polysaccharides like carrageenan. Traditionally, it's been consumed for purported benefits such as thyroid support, immune function enhancement, gut health promotion, and skin/hair nourishment. However, research on Irish Sea Moss as a whole food or supplement is still emerging, with most evidence stemming from in vitro, animal studies, or general seaweed research rather than robust human clinical trials. Its iodine content is a key characteristic, potentially benefiting those with iodine deficiency but posing risks of excess intake. While marketed for various health benefits, the quality of available evidence remains limited, necessitating cautious interpretation of claims.

Benefits

Irish Sea Moss is primarily recognized for its potential thyroid support due to its high iodine content, which is essential for thyroid hormone synthesis. This may benefit individuals with iodine deficiency or hypothyroidism, but excess iodine intake can be harmful. Preliminary in vitro studies suggest sea moss extracts may offer immune support by inhibiting bacterial growth and modulating immune responses, though human evidence is lacking. Additionally, the dietary fiber and sulfated polysaccharides in Irish Sea Moss may promote digestive health and reduce inflammation, but clinical data are insufficient. Secondary effects include antioxidant properties from compounds like astaxanthin and phycocyanin, which may protect cells from oxidative stress, and potential skin and hair health benefits due to its vitamin and mineral content. However, no high-quality randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have quantified effect sizes for Irish Sea Moss powder in humans.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action of Irish Sea Moss is attributed to its iodine content, which supports thyroid hormone synthesis, thereby regulating metabolism. Additionally, the sulfated polysaccharides, such as carrageenan, ulvan, and fucoidan, may exert immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects through interaction with immune cells and gut microbiota. These bioactive polysaccharides may interact with immune receptors and microbial populations, influencing immune responses and gut health. Iodine is absorbed in the gut, while the bioavailability of polysaccharides depends on their molecular size and metabolism by gut microbiota. Irish Sea Moss acts on the endocrine system (thyroid), immune system, gastrointestinal tract, and potentially the skin.

Side effects

Irish Sea Moss is generally considered safe when consumed as food in moderate amounts, but its safety as a concentrated supplement is less certain. Common side effects are not well-documented in clinical studies, but potential gastrointestinal discomfort or bloating may occur due to its fiber content. Rare side effects include the risk of iodine-induced thyroid dysfunction, such as hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism, if consumed in excess. Irish Sea Moss may interact with thyroid medications like levothyroxine and antithyroid drugs due to its iodine content, and it may increase iodine levels dangerously if combined with iodine-containing drugs like amiodarone. Possible blood-thinning effects warrant caution with anticoagulants. It is contraindicated for individuals with thyroid disorders unless under medical supervision. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to avoid high doses due to insufficient safety data. Iodine sensitivity and thyroid disease are key considerations for special populations.

Dosage

There is no established minimum effective dose for Irish Sea Moss powder. A typical food serving of approximately 2 tablespoons (around 5g) provides some iodine and nutrients. However, there is no clinical consensus on optimal dosage ranges, and caution is advised to avoid exceeding the iodine upper intake level (UL) of 1100 mcg/day. The maximum safe dose is not defined, as excessive iodine intake can cause thyroid dysfunction. Powder form can be mixed into foods or beverages, and gels and capsules are also available. Iodine absorption may be influenced by overall diet and gut health. Due to the variability in iodine content and the potential for adverse effects, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation, especially for individuals with thyroid conditions.

FAQs

Is Irish Sea Moss safe to take daily?

Moderate consumption as food is generally safe. Supplements should be used cautiously, especially regarding iodine content, and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

Can it replace thyroid medication?

No, Irish Sea Moss may support iodine intake but is not a substitute for prescribed thyroid treatments. Consult with your healthcare provider for thyroid management.

How long before benefits appear?

The time frame for experiencing benefits is unknown due to a lack of clinical data. Individual responses may vary, and more research is needed.

Does it cause weight loss?

No strong evidence supports weight loss effects from Irish Sea Moss powder. Claims of weight loss are not substantiated by clinical trials.

Is carrageenan in sea moss harmful?

Carrageenan can be degraded into poligeenan, which may cause intestinal inflammation in some contexts, but typical dietary sea moss is not conclusively linked to these effects.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8232781/ – This comprehensive review highlights seaweeds’ bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides like carrageenan and ulvan, with potential health benefits such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial effects. It emphasizes the need for further research on specific species and compounds. While it doesn't include direct RCTs on Irish Sea Moss powder, it provides a biochemical rationale for potential benefits.
https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1691/sea-moss – This WebMD summary notes the nutrient content of *Chondrus crispus* and common uses for fatigue, iodine deficiency, and muscle strength, but states that no good scientific evidence supports these uses. It warns about iodine-related thyroid risks and interactions with thyroid medications. No clinical trials are cited in this summary.
https://www.webmd.com/diet/health-benefits-sea-moss – This WebMD article discusses preliminary studies, including one in worms showing potential movement benefits, and in vitro antibacterial effects of sea moss. It highlights risks of carrageenan degradation products causing intestinal inflammation and potential thyroid issues from excess iodine. The article advises caution and consultation with healthcare providers.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33976376/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis included 67 RCTs on various supplements for weight loss but did not include Irish Sea Moss specifically. It found that some compounds had statistically significant but clinically insignificant weight loss effects. The review concludes that there is insufficient evidence to recommend these supplements for weight loss.
https://specialtyfoodsource.com/products/bare-organics-irish-sea-moss-powder-8-oz – This product description from Bare Organics provides a nutrient profile and claimed benefits such as thyroid support, immunity, gut health, and skin/hair benefits based on nutrient content. While not a scientific study, it is useful for understanding marketed claims associated with Irish Sea Moss powder.