Kelp

Iodine and trace elements in kelp are often helpful in boosting thyroid activity. In Japan the average intake of iodine is 3 mg. and it is claimed that sluggish thyroid cases are infrequent in that country.

Kelp is found in all the various oceans. Because of the wide spread locations a number of varieties exist and chemical compositions of them do vary. The one I have been prescribing for over 30 years has not had any cases of Iodism associated with it even when massive doses were used. The amount usually prescribed for adults is three tablets or a teaspoon full of powder three or four times daily. With small children, cut the dose to one or two tablets. Those who eat kelp as a food get more of it than one obtains taking tablets.

Interestingly, kelp helps both high and low thyroid activity. One must be aware that numbers of coexisting glandular problems often go along with thyroid trouble. These can involve many glands such as the pituitary, gonads, thymus, spleen, ovaries, and pancreas to mention a few. Kelp is also helpful with menstrual difficulties of scanty or prolonged flow. Women who have trouble becoming pregnant or difficulty carrying babies to full term frequently find a solution to the trouble by using kelp.

Inasmuch as the diets that lead to decayed teeth are very deficient in trace elements, kelp would be helpful in supplying these. It does supply small amounts of calcium, phosphorus and magnesium, all of which are very important in controlling tooth decay. However, the addition of bone meal would be indicated as the amounts in kelp are relatively small.

Not all people will have an underactive thyroid return to normal using kelp. Glands have many basic functions, so it is not unusual for them to have a variety of needs. When good nutrition doesn’t solve the problem, thyroid prescriptions are indicated. At times other glands may also need to be helped to overcome the problem.