Ascophyllum nodosum is a brown seaweed that proliferates along the coasts of the Atlantic Ocean, but is also found along the coasts of north-western Europe, Greenland and the eastern coasts of North America. For several years it has been under the lens of researchers who are studying its many applications in the field of health. The powder of this seaweed provides a significant quantity of vitamins, minerals, trace elements and amino acids. It is indicated in cases of thyroid problems, urinary tract infections, gallbladder stones, intestinal inflammation and stomach ulcers. It regulates blood pressure and cholesterol levels in the blood. It promotes the expulsion from the body of metals such as lead and mercury.

Interview with an expert

To find out more, we put some questions to Cosmo Simone of Natural point, a company that produces a supplement based on Ascophyllum nodosum.

What are the properties of this seaweed?
Like kelp, Ascophyllum nodosum is a marine brown seaweed rich in iodine, in a form that is bioavailable to the body. It grows close to the coasts of the Atlantic Ocean and is characterised by being an excellent food, as it naturally contains high biological value proteins, minerals such as selenium, iron and zinc. It also contains tyrosine, B-group vitamins (including B12) and vitamins A, C, D, E, H and K. All of these substances promote the absorption of iodine, thereby supporting concentration, energy metabolism, normal thyroid function and the production of thyroid hormones.

Speaking of the thyroid… how does it help?
Through iodine, of which these seaweeds are particularly rich, present in an organic and highly bioavailable form. But the endocrine system, to maintain its balance, also requires the simultaneous presence of a balanced content of other nutrients: Ascophyllum nodosum therefore also contains a series of nutrients combined together that are useful for better assimilating iodine and necessary for nourishing the endocrine system and the thyroid. Iodine, selenium, tyrosine, zinc, copper, vitamins A, B2, B3, B6 and C are some of the nutrients provided by the seaweed that are useful for supporting thyroid wellbeing.

How does it contribute to the elimination of chemical substances accumulated in the body?
Thanks to the presence of dietary fibres (alginates, fucoidan and mannitol): these, by forming a viscous gel, help to improve detoxification processes, and in this way the body rids itself of the chemical additives contained in food and of environmental pollutants.

How does it regulate body weight?
Without appropriate detoxification of the body and proper nutrition, toxins can accumulate in fat cells and, if present at high levels, be released into the bloodstream. When toxin levels become too high, a reduction in thyroid hormones may occur — hormones that are necessary to maintain an efficient metabolism. Thanks to its support of thyroid function, Ascophyllum nodosum proves to be a useful ally in dietary regimes and in maintaining body weight balance.

Are there any contraindications to consuming this seaweed?
To date, no contraindications are known. Thanks to its complete and balanced nutritional content, it can be a valuable nutritional support, useful for balancing and strengthening the body's capacity to restore a good state of health.