22% off £30

000000s
Code:GET22
 

22% off £30

000000s

Code:GET22

OffersBlack Friday DealsBuy one get one 1/2 priceBetter than 1/2 priceOutletBuy 6 Naturya products to get free blender2 for £18 Mix & Match2 for £5 Mix & MatchFree gift with purchaseBuy 1 Get 1 FreeBuy more save 10%Short DatedVitamins & SupplementsVitamins & Supplements Shop AllHair, Skin & NailsCollagen & SilicaMuscle Support & Joint PainDigestive HealthMagnesiumFunctional MushroomsVitaminsShop all VitaminsMultivitaminsVitamin AVitamin BVitamin CVitamin DVitamin EVitamin KVitamin DrinksMineralsShop all MineralsMagnesiumIronZincCalciumSeleniumChromiumSupplementsShop all SupplementsFibre SupplementsAcidophilus & Friendly BacteriaPeppermint OilGrapeseed ExtractLecithinCollagen & SilicaOmega & Fish OilsPlant Sourced SupplementsSuperfood SupplementsArnicaApple CiderRaspberry KetonesAloe VeraChondroitin & MSMCo Enzyme Q10Evening Primrose OilGarlicGinkgo BilobaGlucosamineGlucomannanSeaweed, Kelps and Aquaceuticals5 HTPDigestive EnzymesSaw palmettoCharcoalConditionShop all ConditionCholesterolAllergy & Hay Fever CareAnxiety SupportBone & Muscle HealthMuscle Support & Joint PainBrain & Memory SupportWomen's HealthMen's HealthChildren's HealthCold & Immune SupportFatigueDigestive HealthHair, Skin & NailsHeart & CirculationLiver CareMood SupportSexual HealthSleep & RelaxationStress ReliefVisionWomen's HealthShop all Women's HealthPerimenopauseMenopauseMenstrual SupportUrinary Tract HealthPregnancy & ConceptionMen's HealthShop all Men's HealthProstate HealthChildren's HealthCBD Vitamins & SupplementsShop all CBD Vitamins & SupplementsCBD OilCBD CapsulesCBD SprayCBD GummiesHerbal & Licensed RemediesShop all Herbal & Licensed RemediesRescue RemedyAshwagandhaMilk ThistleGinseng & GuaranaHomeopathic & Flower RemediesShop all Homeopathic & Flower RemediesRescue RemedyTissue SaltsFlower RemediesHomeopathic RemediesAt-Home TestsVegan Vitamins & SupplementsHolland & BarrettVitabioticsSolgarNew NordicBetterYouWeledaBioglanGrass & Co.Nature's WayNatures AidBlack Friday DealsBuy one get one 1/2 priceBetter than 1/2 priceOutletBuy 6 Naturya products to get free blenderShort Dated3 for £15 Mix & MatchBuy 1 Get 1 FreeDairy FreeGluten FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeFish FreeKiwi FreeLupin FreeNew inFood & DrinkChristmas Food & GiftsAdvent CalendarsFood & Drink Shop AllDried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsShop all Dried Fruit, Nuts & SeedsDried FruitNutsSeedsMixesTeas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesShop all Teas, Coffee & Hot BeveragesCoffee & Coffee SubstitutesMushroom DrinksTeasSuperfood TeasMatcha & Green TeaHerbal TeaPeppermint TeaSleep & RelaxationSlimming TeaWomen's Health TeasHoney, Jams & SpreadsShop all Honey, Jams & SpreadsManuka HoneyHoneyNut ButtersJams & ChutneysSyrupsSpreadsPateDrinks & JuicesShop all Drinks & JuicesMultipack DrinksJuices & Health ShotsNatural Energy DrinksCoconut WaterKombuchaCBD DrinksSoft DrinksWaterAlcohol Free DrinksProtein ShakesSuperfoodsShop all SuperfoodsSuperfood BlendsSupergreensMoringa PowderSpirulinaMaca PowderFlaxseedBaobabChia SeedsGoji BerriesGut HealthSnacksShop all SnacksSweet SnacksSavoury SnacksLow Calorie SnacksChocolateCrisps & ChipsCrackers & CrispbreadsBiscuits & CookiesSnack BarsFlapjacksLiquoricePopcornVegan FoodShop all Vegan FoodMeat-Free AlternativesDairy Free DrinksEgg SubstitutesVegan ProteinVegan Protein BarsFood CupboardShop all Food CupboardApple Cider VinegarCondiments & SaucesMeat-Free AlternativesSoup & Ready MealsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsGravy, Broths & StockBreakfast CerealsShop all Breakfast CerealsCereals, Bran & FlakesGranolaMuesliOats & PorridgeBreakfast BarsCookingShop all CookingCooking IngredientsApple Cider VinegarCondiments & SaucesMeat-Free AlternativesSoup & Ready MealsRice, Pasta, Pulses & GrainsTinned FoodsHerbs, Spices & SeasoningGravy, Broths & StockHome BakingShop all Home BakingBaking IngredientsBaking MixesBreadFlourSweeteners & Sugar AlternativesEgg SubstitutesDairy Free DrinksShop all Dairy Free DrinksOat, Rice & Hemp DrinksSoya DrinksNut DrinksNutritionally Complete FoodHolland & BarrettNaturyaGrenadeHuelHeath & HeatherPukkaTwiningsNakdMeridianPerfectTedBlack Friday DealsBetter than 1/2 priceBuy one get one 1/2 priceBuy 6 Naturya products to get free blender2 for £5 Mix & MatchOutletBuy more save 10%2 for £2 Mix & MatchGluten FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeSugar FreeEgg FreeMilk FreeSoya FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeFish FreeNew inSports NutritionSports Nutrition Shop AllProteinShop all ProteinWhey ProteinClear ProteinMass GainersVegan ProteinDiet ProteinCaseinSports SupplementsShop all Sports SupplementsTestosteroneElectrolytesEnergy GelsSports CollagenCreatineShop all CreatineCreatine PowderCreatine CapsulesBars, Drinks & SnacksShop all Bars, Drinks & SnacksEnergy BarsProtein BarsProtein ShakesProtein SnacksNutritionally Complete FoodMeal Replacement ShakesPre Workout & EnergyShop all Pre Workout & EnergyPre WorkoutCaffeine Free Pre WorkoutAmino Energy PowdersIntra WorkoutPost WorkoutKetoAmino AcidsShop all Amino AcidsAmino Energy PowdersBCAAL-LysineGlutamineCarnitineArginineVegan Sports NutritionShop all Vegan Sports NutritionVegan ProteinVegan Protein BarsVegan Pre Workout & EnergyVegan Amino AcidsVegan CreatineSports AccessoriesShop all Sports AccessoriesBottles & ShakersFitness EquipmentOptimum NutritionPrecision EngineeredUSNGrenadeApplied NutritionMyproteinHolland & BarrettHuelNakdPhDBlack Friday DealsBuy one get one 1/2 priceBetter than 1/2 priceFree gift with purchaseBuy 6 Naturya products to get free blenderOutletBlack FridayGluten FreeDairy FreeSugar FreeWheat FreeEgg FreePalm Oil FreeMilk FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCrustaceans FreeNew inBeautyGiftsNatural Beauty Shop AllAromatherapy & HomeShop all Aromatherapy & HomePure Essential OilsBlended Essential OilsBase & Carrier OilsHolisticSkincareShop all SkincarePremium SkincareFace CareBody CareSun CareTanning & BronzingEye CareLip CareFoot CareHand & Nail CareSkin AilmentsSkin OilsCBD BeautySun CareShop all Sun CareSun Lotion SPFMineral Sun CareFace SPFAfter SunWashing & BathingShop all Washing & BathingShampoo & ConditionerBathing AccessoriesFeminine CareShower Gel & Body WashDeodorantDentalHand WashSoapBath Soak & OilBody ScrubBath Bombs & SaltsIncontinence SupportHair CareShop all Hair CareShampoo & ConditionerHair ColouringHair MasksHair Oil & SerumHair Spray, Gel & MousseHair AccessoriesMother & BabyShop all Mother & BabyBaby Skincare & ToiletriesElectrical WellnessSexual WellnessDr OrganicFaith in NatureWeledaNaturtintTisserandMiaromaSukinQ+AEthiqueTrilogyBlack Friday DealsBuy one get one 1/2 priceBetter than 1/2 priceOutlet2 for £18 Mix & MatchBuy 1 Get 1 FreeAlcohol FreeParfum FreePalm Oil FreeGluten FreeDairy FreeMicroplastics FreeCelery FreeCereal FreeCrustaceans FreeEgg FreeNew inCBDShop all CBDCBD Vitamins & SupplementsShop all CBD Vitamins & SupplementsCBD OilCBD CapsulesCBD SprayCBD GummiesCBD Food & DrinkCBD BeautyGrass & Co.Cannaray CBDCBDfxTRIPfourfiveHolistic HerbHolland & BarrettReakiroLove HempBody & Mind BotanicalsBlack Friday DealsBetter than 1/2 priceBuy one get one 1/2 priceOutletShort DatedDairy FreeAlcohol FreeGluten FreeNew inWeight ManagementWeight Management Shop AllFat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsShop all Fat Burners, Binders & Appetite SuppressantsFat BurnersFat BindersAppetite SuppressantsSlimming TabletsWeight Management Shakes Shop all Weight Management Shakes Meal Replacement ShakesDiet ProteinDiet Food & DrinkShop all Diet Food & DrinkHealthier CookingLow Calorie SnacksSlimming TeasExercise SupportShop all Exercise SupportFitness EquipmentMeal Replacement ShakesDiet ProteinProtein BarsHolland & BarrettGrenadeHeath & HeatherPhDUSNOptimum NutritionBounceHuelPulsinTrekBlack Friday DealsBuy one get one 1/2 priceBetter than 1/2 priceOutletGluten FreeSugar FreeDairy FreeWheat FreeEgg FreeMilk FreeCelery FreeCrustaceans FreeFish FreeKiwi FreeNew inVeganChristmasHealth & WellnessShop all Health & WellnessEnergyJoints Bones & MusclesGut HealthHair Skin & NailsStress AnxietySleep & RelaxationHolland & BarrettVitabioticsNaturtintWeledaSolgarOptimum NutritionDr OrganicBetterYouApplied NutritionWildBlack Friday DealsBuy one get one 1/2 priceBetter than 1/2 price2 for £18 Mix & MatchOutletBuy 6 Naturya products to get free blenderShort Dated3 for £15 Mix & MatchDairy FreeGluten FreeAlcohol FreeSugar FreeWheat FreeEgg FreeSesame Seed FreeCelery FreeCrustaceans FreeFish FreeNew inShop for your WellnessGut HealthImmunityEnergySkincareWomen's HealthMenstrual HealthMenopauseJoints, Bones & MusclesHair, Skin & NailsSleep & RelaxationFood & DietChildren's HealthStress ReliefHealthy HeartLow Mood & DepressionConcentration & AlertnessEye HealthSexual HealthLearn about WellnessJoints, Bones & MusclesWomen's HealthPeriods & Cycle HealthMenopauseImmunityGut HealthFood & DietSports & FitnessSleep & RelaxationHair Skin & NailsArticlesAll articlesHealthFood & nutritionGut healthImmunityJoints, bones & musclesWomen's healthWellnessHair & skinMental wellbeingSeasonalSleep & relaxationSports nutritionRecipesAll recipesGluten freeLow sugarVeganDairy freePodcast

Explore related topics

Sea moss health benefits

heeral-patel-bio

Reviewed byHeeral Patel

Sea moss drink in glass
Want to know more about sea moss? Find out why sea moss has become popular, including potential benefits and side effects

Summary

1What is sea moss?

Sea moss is a type of algae or seaweed, which is found on the Atlantic shores of...

2Possible sea moss side effects

Sea moss is a source of iodine and other heavy metals, taking too much could lead to...

3How to include more sea moss in your diet

Sea moss comes in many forms, from powder to whole, which means you have lots of ways to take it...

Explore related topics

Most of us know that dark leafy greens, fish and berries are good for us. In fact, these ingredients are often referred to as ‘superfoods’, which is why so many of us include them in our weekly meal plans.1

One item that might not be on the shopping list is sea moss. It’s an alga (the singular word for algae) that’s making waves in the wellness world, with plenty of health-conscious individuals including it in their recipes.

Let's explore all you need to know about the emerging potential benefits of sea moss and possible side effects, and why it’s a popular addition to many supplements.

What is sea moss?

Sea moss, known scientifically as Chondrus crispus, is a type of algae or seaweed, which is found on the Atlantic shores of North America, Europe, and the Caribbean Islands.2 It’s known as a red alga, although it often comes in many colours, most popularly yellow, gold and purple – but you can also find rarer colours such as blue and green.2

Its low number of calories and fat means that sea moss is popular and may help to support a healthy lifestyle.3 It contains a small amount of protein, as well as offering a variety of vitamins and minerals and is also a source of iodine and antioxidants.3

Sea moss health benefits

6 potential sea moss benefits

Often claimed to be a brand-new ‘superfood’, there are some possible benefits to adding sea moss to your diet. However, before you start taking sea moss in any form, it's important that you check with your GP to make sure it is safe for you to do so. 
Here are the top 10 potential benefits of sea moss:

1. It may support your digestive health 

Sea moss is a good source of live bacteria and fibre, which are known to support gut health.4
 

2. It may support your thyroid

Sea moss contains iodine, which contributes to the normal production of thyroid hormones and normal thyroid function. However, if you're already taking medication to support your lack of iodine, speak to your GP first before taking sea moss.5
 

3. It may support energy levels

Sea moss contains iron, which contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue, so it may support your energy levels. A lack of iron can make you feel tired and lethargic.6
 

4. It may help to nourish your skin

Sea moss contains vitamins such as vitamin A helps normal skin.7
 

5. It’s believed to be an aphrodisiac

Sea moss has been used as a natural aphrodisiac for many years.8 Although, there is no scientific evidence linking sea moss to increased libido or fertility, it contains many vitamins and minerals that play a key role in reproductive health.
 

6. It may support your overall health and wellness

Sea moss is a nutritious alga that is full of minerals and nutrients such as calcium, iron and phosphorus that can help your body run healthy.9

Other emerging small studies have explored the potential benefits of sea moss for heart health, mood, immune health and more. However, the research had not yet found anything conclusive, and studies have mostly been done on animals, in the lab or in extremely small sample sizes, so whether sea moss has these benefits is unclear and more robust research in humans is needed.

It’s also worth remembering that there isn’t a lot of research around the benefits of sea moss, and it can’t provide all the nutrients you need. Stick to a healthy and balanced diet first and foremost and consider adding sea moss to your diet if you want to once you’ve checked with your doctor.
 
sea moss in a bowl

Summary of potential benefits 

There are many claims to the health benefits of sea moss, but further research is needed to find out how accurate they are.

Of course, you’ll also find plenty of other  plant-based supplements  available too, so it’s worth finding which ones that are right for you. 

Disclaimer: Please note scientific evidence for sea moss benefits is very limited and although there are emerging studies, more clinical research needs to be conducted. Please speak to your GP before taking any new products.

Possible sea moss side effects

There’s a lot we don’t know about eating sea moss and how it interacts with our bodies. While it's generally thought that sea moss is safe for most of us, it’s still worth exercising a bit of caution. Choose reputable manufacturers and talk to your doctor if you have any worries. 

It’s also important to avoid overeating sea moss. Sea moss is a source of iodine and other heavy metals, and while not bad for you in small amounts, taking too much could lead to iodine poisoning and leave you feeling unwell.10

Stick to the acceptable serving size and use in moderation when adding this alga to your diet – just to be on the safe side.
sea moss in bowl

How to include sea moss in your diet 

Sea moss comes in many forms, from powder to whole, which means you have lots of ways to take it – and one of the most popular forms is sea moss gel. Sea moss gel is derived from sea moss and is sometimes used as a thickening or stabilising agent in food, medicine, and cosmetics. It benefits from all the same properties as sea moss, as it also contains minerals like iodine and potassium.11

Sea moss gel has a mild flavour, which makes it a versatile ingredient in your cupboard. You could try adding sea moss to smoothies, shakes, soups, stews, jams, spreads, cakes, baked goods or even ice cream.

As with all supplements and foods, don’t expect a miracle from one ingredient. Try your best to keep to a healthy and balanced lifestyle, adding supplements depending on your unique nutritional needs.

Can you take sea moss every day?

Sea moss is a source of various vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants that may benefit overall health. However, its nutritional structure can fluctuate, and by consuming it in large amounts, you may ingest high levels of iodine or heavy metals, which can be harmful.12

The British Dietetic Association recommends seaweed is not eaten more than once a week, as too much can cause digestive upset or even hyperthyroidism due to the high iodine content. 101

Overall, scientists need to do more research on the health effects of sea moss on humans to determine its value in consumer health products. Still, from what we do know already, some of the benefits appear promising based on emerging research in seaweed and sea algae studies.9

The final say 

Sea moss is a source of a variety of vitamins and minerals, as well as antioxidants that may benefit overall health. 

However, it has varying nutritional properties and when using it in significant amounts, you may consume high levels of iodine or heavy metals. Generally, more research is needed into the claimed health benefits of sea moss in humans, but early studies are promising in similar types of seaweed and algae.

Disclaimer

The advice in this article is for information only and should not replace medical care. Please check with your GP or healthcare professional before trying any supplements, treatments or remedies. Food supplements must not be used as a substitute for a varied and balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle

 

Sources

  1. Carlsen MH, Halvorsen BL, Holte K, Bøhn SK, Dragland S, Sampson L, et al. The total antioxidant content of more than 3100 foods, beverages, spices, herbs and supplements used worldwide. Nutrition Journal [Internet]. 2010 Jan 22;9(1). Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2841576/
  2. Chandler CJ, Wilts BD, Vignolini S, Brodie J, Steiner U, Rudall PJ, et al. Structural colour in Chondrus crispus. Scientific Reports [Internet]. 2015 Jul 3;5(1):11645. Available from: https://www.nature.com/articles/srep11645
  3. Barros-Gomes JAC, Nascimento DLA, Silveira ACR, Silva RK, Gomes DL, Melo KRT, et al. In Vivo Evaluation of the Antioxidant Activity and Protective Action of the Seaweed Gracilaria birdiae. Oxidative Medicine and Cellular Longevity. 2018 Aug 1;2018:1–12.
  4. Apr 11 AS, Wu 2024Additional reporting by Marissa. 9 Potential Sea Moss Benefits, According to Experts [Internet]. PureWow. 2024 [cited 2024 Jun 11]. Available from: https://www.purewow.com/wellness/sea-moss-benefits/
  5. Chung HR. Iodine and thyroid function. Annals of Pediatric Endocrinology & Metabolism [Internet]. 2014 Mar 31;19(1):8. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4049553/
  6. FoodData Central [Internet]. fdc.nal.usda.gov. Available from: https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/168456/nutrients
  7. Cherry P, Yadav S, Strain CR, Allsopp PJ, Mcsorley EM, Ross RP, et al. Prebiotics from seaweeds: An ocean of opportunity? Marine Drugs [Internet]. 2019;17(6):undefined–undefined. Available from: https://www.mendeley.com/catalogue/f919dcef-7ad3-3218-a4fe-23ab27403869/
  8. Mazaheri Nia L, Iravani M, Abedi P, Cheraghian B. Effect of Zinc on Testosterone Levels and Sexual Function of Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Journal of Sex & Marital Therapy. 2021 Jul 27;47(8):804–13.
  9. Lomartire S, Marques JC, Gonçalves AMM. An Overview to the Health Benefits of Seaweeds Consumption. Marine Drugs. 2021 Jun 15;19(6):341.
  10. Khalifa M, Aftab HB, Kantorovich V. “Fueling the Fire” - Irish Sea-Moss Resulting in Jod-Basedow Phenomenon in a Patient With Grave’s Disease. Journal of the Endocrine Society [Internet]. 2021 May 1;5(Supplement_1):A906–6. Available from: https://academic.oup.com/jes/article/5/Supplement_1/A906/6240965
  11. Smith AH, Nichols K, McLachlan J. Cultivation of seamoss (Gracilaria) in St. Lucia, West Indies. Springer eBooks. 1984 Jan 1;249–51.
  12. NHS Choices. Iodine - Vitamins and Minerals [Internet]. NHS. 2020. Available from: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vitamins-and-minerals/iodine/
 

Related Articles