Church FC, Meade JB, Treanor RE, and et al. Antithrombin activity of fucoidan. The interaction of fucoidan with heparin cofactor II, antithrombin III, and thrombin. J Biol Chem 2-25-1989;264(6):3618-3623. View abstract. Though it’s common in developing countries, hypothyroidism from iodine deficiency is rare in the United States and other industrialized nations. Rather, hypothyroidism is mostly related to an autoimmune disease known as Hashimoto’s thyroiditis ( 10, 11). All three plants contain a variety of nutrients, including iodine, potassium, calcium, and magnesium. These are essential for supporting the functioning of the thyroid gland and maintaining healthy metabolic processes. They may help to balance thyroid hormones and reduce symptoms of hypothyroidism. Liu, J., et al. (2015). Neuroprotective effects of the cultivated Chondrus crispus in a C. elegans model of Parkinson’s disease.

Additionally, sea moss is believed to have properties that may help to boost energy levels, reduce stress, and improve mood, all of which can contribute to improved sexual function. Mathew L, Burney M, Gaikwad A, et al. Preclinical evaluation of safety of fucoidan extracts from Undaria pinnatifida and Fucus vesiculosus for use in cancer treatment. Integr Cancer Ther 2017;16(4):572-84. View abstract. Research posted to Marine Drugs also notes that a compound in many seaweeds called fucoxanthin shows promise in helping to break down and metabolize fat.Rowe, B. R., Bain, S. C., Pizzey, M., and Barnett, A. H. Rapid healing of ulcerated necrobiosis lipoidica with optimum glycaemic control and seaweed-based dressings. Br.J.Dermatol. 1991;125(6):603-604. View abstract. It is important to note that the effectiveness of these plants for removing heavy metals from the body may vary based on a number of factors. Some of these include the type and amount of heavy metal exposure, individual differences in metabolism and elimination, and other health conditions. 15. Supports Sexual Health and Fertility Marinho-Soriano E, Fonseca PC, Carneiro MAA, et al. Seasonal variation in the chemical composition of two tropical seaweeds. Bioresour Technol. 2006;97(18):2402-2406. doi:10.1016/j.biortech.2005.11.011

One of the main potential downsides of sea moss is that not much research has been conducted on its benefits and nutritional makeup.

The final say 

We recommend taking two capsules a day for optimal health benefits. You can either swallow your two daily sea moss capsules by mouth with some water or other liquid drink or open the capsules and mix the powder into your favorite drinks, sea moss smoothies, shakes, juices, or even soups! Jiao G, Yu G, Zhang J, Ewart HS. Chemical Structures and Bioactivities of Sulfated Polysaccharides from Marine Algae. Marine Drugs. 2011; 9(2):196-223. https://doi.org/10.3390/md9020196 Paxman, J. R., Richardson, J. C., Dettmar, P. W., and Corfe, B. M. Daily ingestion of alginate reduces energy intake in free-living subjects. Appetite 2008;51(3):713-719. View abstract. May support immunity. One study in salmon found that supplemental seaweed improved immune modulation and immune response. Scientists need to do more research to see whether it also supports immunity in humans. Fucus vesiculosus can contain large amounts of iodine. Large amounts of iodine can change thyroid function. Lithium can also change thyroid function. Taking Fucus vesiculosus along with lithium might increase the risk of thyroid function changes.