Sea moss is a popular superfood that has gained traction on TikTok, with users claiming a variety of health benefits from consuming it. Beauty guru Tatyana, from the channel @tatlafata, shared how sea moss had transformed her health over the course of two years, citing improvements in acne, anxiety, brain fog, energy levels, and overall well-being. Another TikTok video from @herbal.ash, a clinical herbalist, also highlighted the benefits of sea moss in supporting thyroid function, boosting energy, improving skin health, detoxification, oxygen transport in the blood, and anti-inflammatory properties. While claims of sea moss containing 92 out of 102 minerals are unconfirmed, its popularity continues to grow.
Nutritional therapist Janie Perry and medical herbalist Dr. Chris Etheridge provided insight into the health benefits of sea moss. Perry praised sea moss for its nutrient-rich content, including essential vitamins, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants. Etheridge clarified that sea moss is a type of red sea algae, not an actual moss, and has been traditionally used to soothe coughs, indigestion, and acid reflux. He highlighted that sea moss contains carrageenan, a starch used in the food industry as a thickener and stabilizer, as well as iodine, calcium, magnesium, zinc, potassium, and B vitamins, making it a potential source of various health benefits.
Both Perry and Etheridge cautioned about the iodine content in sea moss, which could impact thyroid function, especially for individuals with thyroid disorders. While iodine is essential for proper thyroid function, an excess of iodine could negatively affect the thyroid. Therefore, consulting a healthcare professional before incorporating sea moss into one’s diet is advised, particularly for those with thyroid issues. The prebiotic fiber in sea moss may also promote gut health by supporting the growth of beneficial bacteria, aiding in immunity and overall health.
While there have been limited clinical studies on the medicinal benefits of sea moss, in vitro and animal studies suggest potential positive effects on gut microbiome, immunity, reduced risk of infections, anticoagulant properties, and increased male fertility. Etheridge recommended sea moss for soothing a dry cough or mild acid reflux, but not for individuals with thyroid issues. Sea moss supplements have been shown to reduce the risk of salmonella infections and possess antibacterial properties against Staphylococcus aureus, bacteria that can cause severe infections in humans. Despite limited evidence, sea moss continues to be promoted for its potential health benefits and remains a popular superfood option.
