Sea moss guide: what it is, what it contains, and how to use it
Interest in superfoods has grown enormously in recent years, and sea moss is one of the most popular. But what exactly is sea moss, and why are so many athletes and people who are mindful of what they eat talking about it? Sea moss, or Chondrus crispus, is a red seaweed that has been widely studied in recent years for compounds such as sulfated polysaccharides (carrageenan) and iodine. In this guide, you'll learn what's in sea moss and what to look out for.
What exactly is sea moss?
When we talk about sea moss, we mean a type of red seaweed officially known as Chondrus crispus. It grows mainly along the rocky coasts of the Atlantic Ocean, in areas such as Ireland, Scotland, and parts of the Caribbean. Irish sea moss has been eaten there for centuries.
Seaweed absorbs minerals from seawater, giving sea moss its own composition. At GOYU, we use organic Irish sea moss harvested from the wild.
What's in sea moss? Its mineral profile
Online, you'll often read that sea moss contains 92 of the 102 minerals found in the human body. The exact amount it contains varies by harvest and is difficult to verify. However, sea moss naturally contains a broad range of minerals.
Minerals naturally found in sea moss include:
- Iodine
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Calcium
- Zinc and selenium
Please note: the amounts vary from batch to batch, and this is something to consider particularly with iodine. More on this under safety.
Why do people use sea moss?
Sea moss is mainly used to supplement a varied diet. People use it in smoothies, as a gel, or in capsule form.
Fiber and carrageenan
Sea moss naturally contains fiber and carrageenan, the substance that makes sea moss gel gel-like. That's why it's also used to thicken smoothies and desserts.
Skin and hair
Stories about sea moss often mention skin and hair. These are personal experiences, and little research has been done on them.
Sea moss in summer and during exercise
On hot days or during intense workouts, your body loses not only fluids but also minerals (electrolytes) through sweat. Sea moss naturally contains potassium and magnesium, among other things, which is why it's often mentioned in this context. In any case, drink plenty of water.
Sea moss experiences: what do users say?
In reviews of our organic capsules, users especially mention how easy they are to take and that you don't taste the strong sea flavor that people often dislike in gels.
Safety and possible sea moss side effects
Even though it's a natural product, it's good to know about the possible side effects of sea moss. Sea moss naturally contains iodine. The exact amount of iodine in sea moss varies from harvest to harvest, which is why we don't state an iodine content. Do you have a thyroid condition or take thyroid medication? Then don't use sea moss (see label). If you're allergic to crustaceans or shellfish, be cautious with seaweed products too.
Take the capsules during or immediately after a meal, as stated on the label. If you're unsure or taking medication, always consult a doctor before starting a new supplement.
Why do many people choose sea moss capsules over gel?
If you want to buy sea moss, you can often choose between gel and capsules. Sea moss gel is popular on social media, but many people choose capsules for their convenience:
- Shelf life: capsules keep much longer than fresh gel.
- Taste: you won't notice the seaweed's briny taste in a capsule.
- Dosage: each capsule contains a measured amount of 500 mg of sea moss.
- Convenience: capsules are easy to take with you when traveling, with no need for refrigeration.
Curious about our sea moss? Take a look at our Sea Moss capsules. Looking for spirulina or chlorella too? You can find all our algae together in our algae supplements.
If you are also considering gummies, read sea moss gummies vs capsules and gel to see what is in them and what to check on the label.
Scientific context
Scientific interest in Chondrus crispus is growing. Research has mainly focused on its nutritional value and fiber. A study by Liu et al. (2015) investigated this seaweed as a prebiotic and examined gut flora. The iodine content of sea moss is also an important area of research, as it can vary considerably between products.
Frequently asked questions about sea moss
How many capsules should I take per day?
The recommended dose is 1 capsule per day, with a glass of water during a meal.
Are sea moss capsules suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, GOYU sea moss capsules are made from HPMC, so they are 100% plant-based and suitable for vegetarians and vegans.
When should I take sea moss capsules?
Take them during or immediately after a meal, as stated on the label.
Conclusion
Sea moss is a versatile seaweed that easily fits into your daily routine, as a gel or capsule. It naturally contains a range of minerals, including iodine, so be mindful of how much you take. If you choose organic capsules, they offer an easy addition to a varied diet. What research does and does not show is covered in sea moss benefits, and recipes and dosage for the gel in how to use sea moss gel.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for informational purposes only. Dietary supplements are not a substitute for a varied diet and a healthy lifestyle. If you have any complaints or concerns, always consult a professional before starting a new supplement.
Sources
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