Alge

Several forms of seaweed are available on the pharmaceutical market and in health food stores:

• Capsules (e.g., Pro Natura Seaweed) – ensure precise and easy dosing;
• Dried seaweed (e.g., Algamar Nori Seaweed) – ideal for use in cooking, shakes, and smoothies

There are also complex formulas that combine other superfoods (chlorella and spirulina powder, green wheat, green barley), such as BioGreens from Zenyth, intended for detoxification, vitaminization, and immune support.

The consumption of seaweed is recommended in a wide variety of clinical and physiological contexts:

• Improving physical and athletic performance by providing easily assimilated protein and stimulating cell regeneration;
• Improving immune status thanks to its high content of vitamins (C, E, B12), minerals (iodine, zinc, magnesium), and antioxidant enzymes;
• Adjuvant in weight loss treatments, thanks to its high fiber content and appetite-reducing properties;
• Liver support – especially in chronic and acute hepatitis, where seaweed extracts help protect liver cells;
• Combats fatigue and asthenia through nutritional rebalancing and revitalization of cellular metabolism.

Administration varies depending on the form of presentation and therapeutic purpose, for example:

• Pro Natura Sea Algae: 1 capsule 3 times a day, before meals, for 30 days;
• BioGreens Zenyth: between 4 and 12 capsules per day, depending on the objective – energizing, detoxification, weight loss, or alkalization;
• Algamar Nori Algae: can be hydrated for 20 minutes, then added to food

The administration of seaweed-based supplements is not recommended:

• People with hyperthyroidism or sensitivity to iodine
• Pregnant and breastfeeding women, without prior medical advice
• People with allergies to seafood (shellfish, mollusks)
• In severe kidney disease, due to mineral content (excess potassium or phosphorus)

Seaweed can be taken in long-term treatments, but it is recommended to:

• Alternate with breaks (e.g., one month of use followed by two weeks of rest)
• Taking half an hour before meals for optimal absorption
• Adjusting the dose according to digestive sensitivity (some people may experience bloating at the beginning of the treatment).

In general, seaweed is well tolerated. However, the following may occur:

• Gastrointestinal discomfort (bloating, flatulence)
• Increased iodine levels in the body, with the potential to affect thyroid function (with prolonged use or in high doses)
• Individual allergies or intolerances

Seaweed may interact with certain drugs, for example:

• Anticoagulants: spirulina and chlorella may influence blood clotting due to their high vitamin K content;
• Immunosuppressants: algae may stimulate the immune system and interfere with the effectiveness of these medications;
• Thyroid therapy: the iodine content in seaweed may require adjustment of hormone doses;

Overdose is rare, but may lead to:

• Iodine-induced hyperthyroidism;
• Gastrointestinal disorders (diarrhoea, nausea, abdominal discomfort);
• Electrolyte disturbances in severe cases (due to excessive intake of mineral salts).

In case of accidental administration of doses much higher than those recommended, it is advisable to discontinue treatment and consult a doctor.

Seaweed-based products should be stored at temperatures below 25°C, away from moisture and direct light, in their original, tightly closed packaging. Observe the expiry date stated on the packaging. Keep out of the reach of children.

• WebMD, Seaweed
• Healthline, 7 Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Seaweed
• PubMed, Seaweed as a functional ingredient for a healthy diet
• MDPI, Seaweed in food as a source of bioactive metabolites and potential natural immune stimulant: A comprehensive review