Vegetable

Kelp (Sea Vegetable)

A mineral-rich seaweed that is one of nature's best sources of iodine, traditionally used in small amounts to support healthy thyroid function.

🌱 What it is

Kelp is a large brown seaweed that grows in cool coastal waters, sometimes forming underwater forests. Dried kelp, often sold as kombu, has been used for generations in soups, broths, and seasonings for its deep, savory flavor.

✨ How it may help

Traditionally used to support healthy thyroid function because of its natural iodine content
May help support mineral intake with its calcium, iron, and magnesium content
Traditionally used to add savory depth and nourishment to soups and broths
May help support healthy digestion when cooked with beans and legumes

🥄 How to use it

Add a small piece of dried kelp (kombu) to soups, broths, or a pot of beans while cooking, or use a light sprinkle of kelp flakes as a seasoning.

🥗 Nutrition

Per 2 tbsp raw (10 g) · about 4 calories

Iodine (varies, often very high per gram)
Calcium 17 mg
Iron 0.3 mg
Magnesium 12 mg

Source: USDA FoodData Central

⚖️ Caution

Kelp is very high in iodine; too much can upset the thyroid, so use small culinary amounts, not high-dose supplements. People with thyroid disease or who take thyroid medicine should check with a doctor before adding kelp regularly. Choose tested, reputable sources, since seaweed can concentrate heavy metals from the sea.

🍃 A note from nature

Kelp forests sway in ocean currents and shelter countless sea creatures, one of the fastest-growing plants on earth - a picture of quiet abundance rising from the deep.