Well I started taking kelp as I had heard it helped speed up growth. I was growing anything from 1/4-1/2" a month, sometimes more.

I take my kelp (500mg) with a multi vitamin each day, my hair has grown 1.02" this month which is fantastic for me.

Just thought id share, I know robinlyn has just started on kelp and is seeing similar results. x

congrats on your growth! that is a great rate

What is the brand of kelp you use?

What is the brand of kelp you use?

mine are from ebay and the brand is 'lifeplan' sea kelp. They take about a fortnight to see any difference and the first change i saw was in my skin it is so clear now, then my nails which have really strong and finally my hair.

These really do work, i would think any brand would do but go for the higher dose if possible, they are so cheap too.

HTH x

congrats on your growth! that is a great ratethank you, at this rate (if it keep up) i will be waist by christmas!

Congratulations, Jojo, on such wonderful growth!:cheer: I assume that kelp comes in tablet /pill form, if I am not mistaken?

Ooh I have some kelp tablets in the cupboard, I might have a go with those. Thanks Jojo and congratulations on your growth!

Wow!!

I'm going to get me some kelp now...Thanks and congrats jojo!

I've just started on kelp too, I'm on half the amount you are however I might increase it slowly. I don't know if I'll be able to tell if it helps my growth much because I'm also doing a million other things for thickening and growth such as - Bargello's regimen, miconazole, EOs, cayenne etc etc. But sea vegetables are always a good idea (always). :P

Interesting. I think I have some sheets of dried kelp in the cupboard. Might need to start making some kelp soup!

Congratulations, Jojo, on such wonderful growth!:cheer: I assume that kelp comes in tablet /pill form, if I am not mistaken?thanks you David yes its a pill which stinks of fish so you need to swallow it quick before it melts on your tongue, i prefer it to biotin as i get the odd spot with the biotin, no side effects to report as yet but my hair has never grown as quick and im also noticing hardly any shed. x

Ooh I have some kelp tablets in the cupboard, I might have a go with those. Thanks Jojo and congratulations on your growth! thank you, yes use them im really pleased with my results.

I've just started on kelp too, I'm on half the amount you are however I might increase it slowly. I don't know if I'll be able to tell if it helps my growth much because I'm also doing a million other things for thickening and growth such as - Bargello's regimen, miconazole, EOs, cayenne etc etc. But sea vegetables are always a good idea (always). :P

i was using the monistat but i never used any this month, so im just going to stick to the kelp and multi vits. I feel i have more energy too with the kelp, i agree sea veg is always a good idea not just for hair growth but for overall health

mine are from ebay and the brand is 'lifeplan' sea kelp. They take about a fortnight to see any difference and the first change i saw was in my skin it is so clear now, then my nails which have really strong and finally my hair.

These really do work, i would think any brand would do but go for the higher dose if possible, they are so cheap too.

HTH x


*Runs off to e-bay* :lol: thanks :flower:

Interesting. I think I have some sheets of dried kelp in the cupboard. Might need to start making some kelp soup! sounds erm....yummy!!

nurses hat on here but please individuals who have hypothyroidism and are taking thyroxine to treat their condition DO NOT USE KELP it can interact with your prescribed medication

I also take kelp, but in liquid form. My hair is growing quickly, but I haven't measured exactly how much growth. I have noticed hardly any shed *whoopee*

its good stuff isnt it? great to see others getting as good results x

Hmm, I nearly bought some kelp when you mentioned it caused faster growth.

I'm definitely buying some now! Thanks Jojo.:toast:

I've started and stopped this a couple times because my sleep becomes really restless whenever I take it and goes back to normal 3-4 days after I stop. Anyone else noticed this? I'd like to go on it permanently to faster growth, but I can't stand to have restless nights - I'm useless during the day!!

I've started and stopped this a couple times because my sleep becomes really restless whenever I take it and goes back to normal 3-4 days after I stop. Anyone else noticed this? I'd like to go on it permanently to faster growth, but I can't stand to have restless nights - I'm useless during the day!!

try lowering the dose, it sounds like you are making your thyroid go into fast drive, lower the dose to say 100mg and build up to a level you can tolerate . You should be ok then. HTH x

Hmm, I nearly bought some kelp when you mentioned it caused faster growth.

I'm definitely buying some now! Thanks Jojo.:toast:

you wont be sorry, there amazing!

I googled kelp supplements because I want to try them and found this bit of scary info:

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/04/070406140955.htm

So I guess be careful and choose supplements that don't have really high levels of kelp in them.

I just looked on Ebay for "lifeplan" and didn't find any kelp. Is it listed under anything else?

I've started and stopped this a couple times because my sleep becomes really restless whenever I take it and goes back to normal 3-4 days after I stop. Anyone else noticed this? I'd like to go on it permanently to faster growth, but I can't stand to have restless nights - I'm useless during the day!!

MaskedRose, try a lower dose as JoJo suggested, working up slowly to a higher dose. Also, the restlessness might be caused by the iodine. My homeopath gave me some nascent iodine drops to help me recover from the flu and the instructions were very clear in not taking them within 6 hours of bedtime or they could cause sleeplessness. You might try your kelp pills with breakfast and lunch and none at dinner.

I bought dried kelp and it tastes gross. I tried it in soup and on salad. But still: yuk! Any tips for making it more edible?

I bought dried kelp and it tastes gross. I tried it in soup and on salad. But still: yuk! Any tips for making it more edible?

Not a sushi fan I take it? ;)

I personally love it on or wrapped around rice. Give that a try maybe?

Just wanted to thank you once again Jojo! I started kelp last month and I've had over my usual .5 inch growth this month! Yahoo!!

I don't like taking supplements, but I don't mind eating seaweed. The question is, which edible seaweed would have the same results? There's nori, wakame, hijiki, etc....Does anyone have any ideas? I'd love to try!

Also, seaweeds are a great source of calcium as well!

I don't like taking supplements, but I don't mind eating seaweed. The question is, which edible seaweed would have the same results? There's nori, wakame, hijiki, etc....Does anyone have any ideas? I'd love to try!

Also, seaweeds are a great source of calcium as well!

Kelp in Japanese is Kombu and can be found dried, powdered as tea, canned and fresh in many Asian markets. Many Japanese soup stocks are made using this. :) Wakame and hijiki also have similar iodine values but not consistently. Nori is low in iodine. It's a red alga not brown or green unlike the above so has different properties/ nutrient content.

Congrats Jojo!
Have you seen any changes in weight too btw? Kelp i supposed to help make you lose weight.

Thanks Mira-chan!

:flower: Jojo thanks so much for posting this. It convinced me to buy kelp along with a few other supplements I've been reading about (biotin, silica, MSM, and I was already taking omega-3.)
Keep us posted on the progress!

:flower: Jojo thanks so much for posting this. It convinced me to buy kelp along with a few other supplements I've been reading about (biotin, silica, MSM, and I was already taking omega-3.)
Keep us posted on the progress!

Oh yes! get that biotin!! It's amazing. If only I could remember to take my pills :P

Oh yes! get that biotin!! It's amazing. If only I could remember to take my pills :P

That's exactly my problem.....i get all these bottles and they just sit hanging around.....

I'll definately get some kelp again though.....my last bottle sat not often used then passed it's sell by date lol

Not a sushi fan I take it? ;)

I personally love it on or wrapped around rice. Give that a try maybe?


I like sushi, but kelp tastes much stronger than nori. So you use it as outside for sushi instead of nori?

try lowering the dose, it sounds like you are making your thyroid go into fast drive, lower the dose to say 100mg and build up to a level you can tolerate . You should be ok then. HTH x

I'll try lowering the dose and see if that takes care of it. Thanks!

That's exactly my problem.....i get all these bottles and they just sit hanging around.....

I'll definately get some kelp again though.....my last bottle sat not often used then passed it's sell by date lol

Yep. That's exactly what happened to mine, which is why I don't take kelp now and haven't really ever. :D I need to purchase some. First must get the car or bike fixed. bleh.

I'm interested (even though I already take MSM and biotin!) but that arsenic article has me concerned. Dietary supplements aren't well regulated in the US. I'm going to check the next time I'm at the store and see if I can find a brand that says anything about checking for arsenic content.
I do think my skin has gotten worse since I started biotin... drat! I have a zit on my chin right now, and before I started the biotin, I hadn't had a pimple in at least a few months.

I'm interested (even though I already take MSM and biotin!) but that arsenic article has me concerned. Dietary supplements aren't well regulated in the US. I'm going to check the next time I'm at the store and see if I can find a brand that says anything about checking for arsenic content.
I do think my skin has gotten worse since I started biotin... drat! I have a zit on my chin right now, and before I started the biotin, I hadn't had a pimple in at least a few months.

Odd. My skin has gotten worse since I stopped taking it (due to me being an idiot and forgetting it then not being able to find the bottle anyway. :D ) and it got even worse when I stopped taking my BCPs (due to not having a car to go get my yearly and get a new prescrip)

Haven;t seen this arsenic article. I'll have to check it out.

I just looked on Ebay for "lifeplan" and didn't find any kelp. Is it listed under anything else? try puttinf sea kelp in, see what it brings x

Just wanted to thank you once again Jojo! I started kelp last month and I've had over my usual .5 inch growth this month! Yahoo!!
your welcome, do you feel more energetic off it?

Congrats Jojo!
Have you seen any changes in weight too btw? Kelp i supposed to help make you lose weight.
well ive been dieting forever, was diagnosed as borderline hypothyroid, i started weight watchers in December lost nothing and left, but I have since lost 18lbs since February, some off my own back but its definitely coming off quicker since the kelp and my thyroid level is back to normal too!


eta-didnt mean ive lost weight just off my own back, meant been dieting with WW at home without meetings, so lost LBS and saved ££££!

Hmmmm, I really need to look into kelp again and try to remember to take my stuff. My hair i stalled at "just past tailbone?" and it has been at the same place for several month now. I measured in march and again two days ago, and I haven't grown even a mm. :wail:

Awesome on the losing weight! Glad your thyroid is back to normal too, that's awesome!! :)

Just wanted to thank you once again Jojo! I started kelp last month and I've had over my usual .5 inch growth this month! Yahoo!!

Me too! Have been taking kelp since last month and got amazing growth (0.75in). *And* I managed to lose that last few pounds to get me to my goal weight...

I don't know if the kelp is responsible, but I certainly think it must have had some effect. So thank you! :D

Me too! Have been taking kelp since last month and got amazing growth (0.75in). *And* I managed to lose that last few pounds to get me to my goal weight...

I don't know if the kelp is responsible, but I certainly think it must have had some effect. So thank you! :D

Congratulations!!!!! :cheese:
I'll have to jump on the bandwagon and get some more kelp soon.

what a great thread Jojo thank you so much:)

I am taking kelp (tablets) for about two weeks now (because I've read it is healthy in the you are what you eat book (Gillian McKeith)hehe. )

I didn't know it made hair grow faster, I am hoping it will do the same with me as I only get around 03-0.4" a month on average. It looks like it is growing faster (I can see my roots vs hennaed hair) but then again I can't remember when I coloured my hair with henna the last time :rolleyes:

I will ty to keep you updated on my progress.

Lots of greetings from Helen.

I like the taste of kelp, I grew up eating the canned variety of it. Went to pick up kelp powder (not tablets, just powdered like a spice) fromt he pharmacy. Adding it to foods now. :D Yum!

Me too! Have been taking kelp since last month and got amazing growth (0.75in). *And* I managed to lose that last few pounds to get me to my goal weight...

I don't know if the kelp is responsible, but I certainly think it must have had some effect. So thank you! :D
that is great progress, i really do think the kelp helps (hey im a poet and didnt know it!!) it stands to reason, it contains iodine which is needed for healthy cell development, so if we are lacking in this cells are replaced where needed most to sustain health, hair really isnt a priority for our bodies, so therefore gets neglected hense why people with hypothyroidism get thin brittle hair, but if we replace this deficiency our body acts like a well oiled cog so to speak and this in return kick starts our metabolism (=weight loss, more effective energy use) and allows our hair to grow!

This is my theory anyway!!

what a great thread Jojo thank you so much:)

I am taking kelp (tablets) for about two weeks now (because I've read it is healthy in the you are what you eat book (Gillian McKeith)hehe. )

I didn't know it made hair grow faster, I am hoping it will do the same with me as I only get around 03-0.4" a month on average. It looks like it is growing faster (I can see my roots vs hennaed hair) but then again I can't remember when I coloured my hair with henna the last time :rolleyes:

I will ty to keep you updated on my progress.

Lots of greetings from Helen.

yes please do keep me up to date with your progress, it took about a fortnight to kick in with me, but i do think these work a lot better than biotin, my hair is shedding hardly anything either.
Good luck x

I like the taste of kelp, I grew up eating the canned variety of it. Went to pick up kelp powder (not tablets, just powdered like a spice) fromt he pharmacy. Adding it to foods now. :D Yum!
i love sea weed but kelp eek! makes me gag, i have to swallow the pills straight a way!

just to add kelp doesnt just make hair on the head grow quicker, EVERYWHERE grows if you catch my drift! im having to pluck my eyebrows daily and shave under my arms every other day, opposed to once a fortnight before!

just to warn you!!

i love sea weed but kelp eek! makes me gag, i have to swallow the pills straight a way!

It certainly is an acquired taste. :lol: I like kombu (kelp) tea to. :yumm:

Does it leave an after taste??

Wow that's incredible growth!! Thanks for sharing your results!

Does it leave an after taste??

I'm pretty sure the capsule pills don't but the actual thing does. It is very strong tasting.

Aye.

My mother refused to eat sushi because she likes to bite into her food, and biting into seaweed makes her gag and run to the bathroom to scrape her tongue off, that and she doesn't like the taste. :rolleyes:

Aye.

My mother refused to eat sushi because she likes to bite into her food, and biting into seaweed makes her gag and run to the bathroom to scrape her tongue off, that and she doesn't like the taste. :rolleyes:

Most sushi uses nori (Porphyra sp.) which doesn't contain much iodine unlike kelp (Laminaria sp.). Kelp has thick "leaves" and is more chewy/ meaty.

To note: Research how to cook kelp thoroughly if you want to try to do so If you don't know how before you try it. When not done right it will stink up your house something awful. I know due to one of my mothers experimental tries in cooking it.:puke:

This sounds really good. My DW and I are already taking Biotin, so looks like kelp will be on our next shopping list. Will be interested to see how it turns out. I will be watching this thread with interest..

Most sushi uses nori (Porphyra sp.) which doesn't contain much iodine unlike kelp (Laminaria sp.). Kelp has thick "leaves" and is more chewy/ meaty.

To note: Research how to cook kelp thoroughly if you want to try to do so If you don't know how before you try it. When not done right it will stink up your house something awful. I know due to one of my mothers experimental tries in cooking it.:puke:

Ewwww. I can imagine.
I'm glad that what's in sushi isn't what we're eating here, or my mother would have done worse than spit it out and wipe off her tongue. :p
I was just commenting on one person's reaction to the taste and feel of a type of seaweed.
ETA: I love nori cutters. They're too cool. I need one in a cat shape and one in a moon shape, methinks. :p

Does it leave an after taste??

no not at all, you just need to swallow it quick, i take mine with milk and make sure to take it in the morning, it will stop you sleeping else!

This sounds really good. My DW and I are already taking Biotin, so looks like kelp will be on our next shopping list. Will be interested to see how it turns out. I will be watching this thread with interest..
its all good! the biotin gave me spots, the kelp i think is a much better supplement, good luck with it, im sure you will be very happy with it xx

I have been getting a much more oily skin and hair (more sebum) lately, I have also an increase in a bad looking skin (spots and such) the last few weeks, I am not sure if this is due to the kelp intake? Is this possible or just a coincidence?

I also have a massive amount of shedding (which began before taking kelp so it is not because of the tablets).

Hope someone can help me out on this one please?

how long have you been on the kelp? and what dosage are you taking?

Other things which may have contributed has your diet changed? are you under a lot of stress?

post back and i will in the mean time have a search around to see if the kelp is connected with your problems.

I've been on kelp for maybe a month now, counting the times I forgot to take it. I have lost 10 pounds between getting weighed at the Dr's office 1.5-2 months ago and weighing myself a week ago. I'm not sure if it's the kelp or what. I'm taking 500mg

My kelp and spirulina tablets arrived to the post office yesterday. I wonder if they will do any good...

Hello Jojo :waving:

Thank you so much for your reply. I have kelp tablet which I take 3 times a day. The bottle says: take 3 times a say (1 tablet) in the morning , noon and at night preferably during mealtime. it has 150mg kelp in one tablet, so that is an intake of 45omg a day.

The spots are smaller now and my face isn't as bad as it was before, but it is still not clear, and I do experience an increased amount of greasiness on my scalp too. I am still not sure whether this is due to the intake of kelp.

I will keep you updated once I know more ok?

Hrrrrrmmm - kelp tablets, eh? I do have a coupon from Puritan's Pride - and I know I'm slightly iodine deficient..... I'll have to scoop a bottle or two of this up.
And I'll definitely look for the tea - I love teas!

Hi everyone.........I thought I would give kelp a go too, as my hair growth rate is just the average amount of 1cm per month. Not much especially when Im one of those people who must get a trim every 8 weeks. So .75" to me sounds great.

Anyway, I bought a bottle today from the health food store. Its a brand name we get here in Aust called 'Thompsons', and it has in it: kelp(fucus vesiculousus) - 1500mg
equivalent to Iodine - 300mcg
Im worried that this is too much, as you all seem to be taking much less. Maybe I should just see how I go for a week or two. It says on the bottle to take 1 tablet per day, and I will take it in the morning, so hopefully it does'nt affect my sleep.

What do you all think??

I've been on kelp for maybe a month now, counting the times I forgot to take it. I have lost 10 pounds between getting weighed at the Dr's office 1.5-2 months ago and weighing myself a week ago. I'm not sure if it's the kelp or what. I'm taking 500mg

that is brilliant, ive lost 20lbs altogether and i totally put it down to the kelp, i could have ate nothing but lettuce before and still put weight on, im really happy for you that is really good x

Hello Jojo :waving:

Thank you so much for your reply. I have kelp tablet which I take 3 times a day. The bottle says: take 3 times a say (1 tablet) in the morning , noon and at night preferably during mealtime. it has 150mg kelp in one tablet, so that is an intake of 45omg a day.

The spots are smaller now and my face isn't as bad as it was before, but it is still not clear, and I do experience an increased amount of greasiness on my scalp too. I am still not sure whether this is due to the intake of kelp.

I will keep you updated once I know more ok?

hi again,
yes mine says to take 3 x a day but i find taking it all in the morning allows me to sleep! and i too have found my scalp more greasy since taking them but that is easily sorted out!
Try taking them all in the morning, you wont over dose. Also bit personal this but does your wee seem more yellow, as in bright yellow? if it is then cut down to 2 kelp a day for a couple of weeks, as this can be a sign you are getting too much, the kidneys will excrete any excess that the body can't use and bright yellow wee is a sign of this!

The spots you was getting, which are now going may be due to your body adjusting to the kelp, good news there going1

Yes please keep me updated in how you get on.

take care
Jo jo xxx

Hi everyone.........I thought I would give kelp a go too, as my hair growth rate is just the average amount of 1cm per month. Not much especially when Im one of those people who must get a trim every 8 weeks. So .75" to me sounds great.

Anyway, I bought a bottle today from the health food store. Its a brand name we get here in Aust called 'Thompsons', and it has in it: kelp(fucus vesiculousus) - 1500mg
equivalent to Iodine - 300mcg
Im worried that this is too much, as you all seem to be taking much less. Maybe I should just see how I go for a week or two. It says on the bottle to take 1 tablet per day, and I will take it in the morning, so hopefully it does'nt affect my sleep.

What do you all think??

hi yes take in the morning, monitor how it is for you and cut back accordingly if needed building up slowly, you wont over dose on it but there are signs which would suggest your body is getting too much (see post above) other things which would suggest too much kelp is feeling anxious or being hyper active but these are rare, the body will rid of any excess by urination. x

hi again,
yes mine says to take 3 x a day but i find taking it all in the morning allows me to sleep! and i too have found my scalp more greasy since taking them but that is easily sorted out!
<snip>

It makes scalp more greasy? That's good news for me as mine is usually Sahara dry.

Does it help with shedding? I shed a lot and I am sick of it. But I think I would have to get it in a pill form, I cannot stand the taste of kelp.

Kelp sounds like a really interesting supplement, but how are those of you who use it handing the arsenic concerns? Are you using a brand that tests for arsenic, or...?

I'd love to give it a shot, but am fearful of what appears-- from the article that someone (shellyblue?) posted)-- to be a pretty widespread arsenic problem.

I think the problem with arsenic might be when you take large doses or take more than the bottle says. :) The report might have been faulty anyway because I think that might have been what happened with the lady. She had taken a lot more than she was supposed to if I remember correctly.

I began taking kelp today in hopes that it will speed up my hair growth. I purchased the Icelandic Kelp by Nature's Life. I purchased it at Whole Foods for pretty cheap. They are to be taken only once a day. They contain:

Iodine 225 mcg
Kelp 41 mg

Hope this works! :)

I ordered some Kelp (http://www.superbherbs.com/Kelp.html) earlier in the week. I took my first pill today. Mine is 500mg and I'm going to take 1 tablet a day. No smell, no taste! :)

Hmmm, does anyone think that since my supplement is primarily Iodine and not the Kelp that I won't get the same benefits? My bottle says it has:

Iodine 225 mcg
Kelp 41 mg

Does that sound like too much Iodine?

Hmmm, does anyone think that since my supplement is primarily Iodine and not the Kelp that I won't get the same benefits? My bottle says it has:

Iodine 225 mcg
Kelp 41 mg

Does that sound like too much Iodine?

At a guess i rekon what they mean is that that's how much iodine is in the kelp contained in the tablet. Don't quote me but i think a mcg is 1000th of a mg

At a guess i rekon what they mean is that that's how much iodine is in the kelp contained in the tablet. Don't quote me but i think a mcg is 1000th of a mg

Ok I see, thanks!

I also hopped on the kelp-train, just bought some very cheap Lifeplan kelp from E-bay. I don't expect to get any weightloss from it, since I don't have my thyroid gland anymore, but I hope my hair is still effected. More growth is always welcome :)

I took my first kelp tablet a couple of days ago (1500mg), and the next morning, and continuing for the whole day I had terrible diarrhoea with a bad stomach ache and a lot of weakness. This is probably due to the gastro germs going around at my childrens school, but it did make my think about what I had just taken that I'd never tried before. Im sure it'll be ok. I gave my stomach some time to settle down - so much movement in there, you'd swear I had a baby kicking around in there - and I have just taken half a tablet about 5 hours ago, so I'll report back if I have the same findings.:)

Can everyone tell me how much of a dosage they take? The brand I got(GNC) has 150 mcg of iodine made of 30mg of kelp per capsule(that's what it says on the bottle). I'm a little confused by the dosage, as I've never seen anyone talking about mcg(micrograms) in this thread. Are you talking about the amount of kelp used when you say numbers between 100-500, or the amount of iodine?

ETA: Well, I knew that kelp has iodine in it and I also know what iodine is. What I was trying to ask was how many micrograms everyone was taking, because it seems to me that nearly everyone is mixing up mcg and mg. So when you say you take 500 mg of kelp, it's a ridiculously huge amount. The correct term should be mcg instead of mg, that is all I'm saying.

Can everyone tell me how much of a dosage they take? The brand I got(GNC) has 150 mcg of iodine made of 30mg of kelp per capsule(that's what it says on the bottle). I'm a little confused by the dosage, as I've never seen anyone talking about mcg(micrograms) in this thread. Are you talking about the amount of kelp used when you say numbers between 100-500, or the amount of iodine?

Mine is: Iodine (from Kelp): 150mcg. I don't know what Iodine is. :confused: The directions say to take 1-2 tablets with each meal but I'm only taking 1 tablet a day with a meal.

I just noticed that the bottle doesn't say how much Kelp is in there but the website says 500mg.

Can everyone tell me how much of a dosage they take? The brand I got(GNC) has 150 mcg of iodine made of 30mg of kelp per capsule(that's what it says on the bottle). I'm a little confused by the dosage, as I've never seen anyone talking about mcg(micrograms) in this thread. Are you talking about the amount of kelp used when you say numbers between 100-500, or the amount of iodine?

basak,
Does it say iodine tablets or for tyroids on the generic name? If they can derive iodine from the kelp, it doesn't necessarily mean you are taking the kelp but the iodine from the kelp. Just an idea. :flowers:

Iodine is an element! In humans, it's a necessary constituent for a few hormones that regulate metabolism-- these hormones come from the thyroid gland. It's a trace element, meaning that we don't need much to function-- the FDA recommends 150 mcg per day.
A microgram (abbreviated mcg or μg) is one-millionth of a gram. For those who don't know metric measurements, there are about 28 grams to one ounce. So a microgram is a VERY VERY SMALL amount.
Here's the wiki page on Iodine (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iodine#Stable_iodine_in_biology) (if you aren't aware of anything about it at, the whole page is good reading-- but I linked specifically to the bit about how iodine is active in the body).

I'm still contemplating trying this supplement...

I take 300mg a day, but it is more for health reasons.

Just bought mine. 30mg of kelp with 150mcg of Iodine. It says 1-3 tablets a day, but I am starting with two a day at breakfast time. Will see how I get on for a couple of weeks, then might see about taking the full three a day.

hi again,
yes mine says to take 3 x a day but i find taking it all in the morning allows me to sleep! and i too have found my scalp more greasy since taking them but that is easily sorted out!
Try taking them all in the morning, you wont over dose. Also bit personal this but does your wee seem more yellow, as in bright yellow? if it is then cut down to 2 kelp a day for a couple of weeks, as this can be a sign you are getting too much, the kidneys will excrete any excess that the body can't use and bright yellow wee is a sign of this!

The spots you was getting, which are now going may be due to your body adjusting to the kelp, good news there going1

Yes please keep me updated in how you get on.

take care
Jo jo xxx

Hello Jojo,

Ik don't think it looks more yellow or different, but I am now taking all the tablets in the morning (this is also much more confenient).

I don't know if my hair really grows faster but we will see, the spots have returned again :(:confused: but it is not extreme so I will see how it continues.

Take care, Helen :flower:

I noticed something and I thought I'd tell you guys. Since taking the kelp tablets (which I take around midday with food), I've noticed that I've been sleeping better and more sound lately. Not for sure if it is due to the kelp, but its something I've noticed since I've started taking it.

this looks worth a shot. I'll have to see if I can find some kelp tablets when I head to the store later. (hair growth and weight loss, sounds good to me! though I am not sure about the non-scalp hair growing faster!)

Someone (sorry I lost the thread) mentioned Konbu tea? I have konbu for making miso and bean soups (supposed to lessen the beans gas effects), do you use that or ? It seems a wee salty for tea.

Also seaweeds, many contain some iodine, but not sure what is making the hair growth so wondering if they would work too?? Anyone know?

this looks worth a shot. I'll have to see if I can find some kelp tablets when I head to the store later. (hair growth and weight loss, sounds good to me! though I am not sure about the non-scalp hair growing faster!)

Someone (sorry I lost the thread) mentioned Konbu tea? I have konbu for making miso and bean soups (supposed to lessen the beans gas effects), do you use that or ? It seems a wee salty for tea.

Also seaweeds, many contain some iodine, but not sure what is making the hair growth so wondering if they would work too?? Anyone know?

I mentioned konbu tea. It is probably similar to what you are talkign about except its packages specifically as tea and possibly slightly less salty, though it is salty. Its a unique flavored tea that is more like a broth.

Yes it is likely the iodine that is helping hair. It has an effect of the thyroid function and that can effect hair growth. Konbu/ kelp (brown alga) is very high in iodine, that is why the effect is so prominent. Nori (red alga) has negligible amounts of iodine. Wakame and hijiki are somewhere midway in amounts. All of them are high in nutrients and minerals so that would help for body nutrition and thus hair growth. Single cell alga like spirulina and chlorella are highly nutritious too.

Alright, I'm convinced that I should be taking the kelp. :) I would love to see some more growth, right now my hair grows at 1/2 a month. I bought kelp tablets that have 600 mg in them. I'll take one tablet a day. And I'll wait patiently.

Thank you JoJo for sharing this! I hope it works for me!

I have some old Bladderwrack pills, which looking at them are high in iodine and the internet tells me they are often sold as 'kelp' for that reason, debating trying those, but bit worried as I have seen a warning on a site (sorry I should have noted the page, but I'm supposed to be studying not researching hair stuff!) that the iodine in kelp can increase break outs and skin stuff, I have rosacea so a bit worried about that effect.

Oh & thanks Mira-chan, maybe for now I'll stick to just getting some extra seaweeds, kelp and algae from my diet and the tea sounds worth a taste.

ok not the same page but here are a couple talking about acne from kelp (read side effects):
http://www.florahealth.com/flora/home/Canada/HealthInformation/Encyclopedias/Kelp.htm

and this is a very pro-iodine article (it mentions the acne as a side effect of other chemicals being flushed out): http://www.lewrockwell.com/miller/miller20.html
looks like kelp my be good for breat tissue as well! hmmm then again maybe I will try.

So in case anyone else was concerned, I googled around and found this criticism of the arsenic report:
http://www.pubmedcentral.nih.gov/articlerender.fcgi?artid=2137109

That makes me feel better, so I may give this a shot!

Yes it is likely the iodine that is helping hair. It has an effect of the thyroid function and that can effect hair growth. Konbu/ kelp (brown alga) is very high in iodine, that is why the effect is so prominent. Nori (red alga) has negligible amounts of iodine. Wakame and hijiki are somewhere midway in amounts. All of them are high in nutrients and minerals so that would help for body nutrition and thus hair growth. Single cell alga like spirulina and chlorella are highly nutritious too.

I've been eating hijiki and arame and haven't noticed much difference. It's the iodine that seems to make a difference, so plain kelp should help in hair growth. Off to go buy some KELP!

I feel so "at sea" with spirulina, chlorella, etc.

After about a week on the kelp, I have gotten a few painful spots on my face. I just wanted to know if boukje and others who had spots if it has cleared up for them; because faster growth isn't worth it if my face breaks out. I'll continue for up to a month, and hopefully *fingers crossed it will go away.

I'm glad that some of you are having good growth with this!

After about a week on the kelp, I have gotten a few painful spots on my face. I just wanted to know if boukje and others who had spots if it has cleared up for them; because faster growth isn't worth it if my face breaks out. I'll continue for up to a month, and hopefully *fingers crossed it will go away.

I'm glad that some of you are having good growth with this!

Hello forgetmenotak :waving:

My skin still hasn't cleared up (completely) but as I said before I am not sure if the spots were (and the small red spots and black heads now) are from the kelp tablets.

Maybe you should wait and see what happens with your skin?

I must dissapoint you all, (maybe I am the odd one here) but I have taken kelp now for almost 6 weeks and my growth hasn't been faster than before:o

Okay I have been taking kelp now for about 2-2 1/2 weeks. My roots seem to be coming in faster and maybe even shinier! I take a multivitamin, a biotin supplement, a kelp tablet, and a salmon oil supplement. Kelp seems to be working so far!

It's been a month since I started my new vitamin regimen. I take biotin, omega-3, kelp, spirulina, silica, msm, and evening primrose oil. It's a ton to swallow, but hey, I got over an inch of growth last month and I wasn't even taking them all month :cheese:

Hello forgetmenotak :waving:

My skin still hasn't cleared up (completely) but as I said before I am not sure if the spots were (and the small red spots and black heads now) are from the kelp tablets.

Maybe you should wait and see what happens with your skin?

I must dissapoint you all, (maybe I am the odd one here) but I have taken kelp now for almost 6 weeks and my growth hasn't been faster than before:o

Hello boukje :waving:
I'm embarrassed, I jumped to conclusions, I forgot that I had been under a lot more stress than usual; and I heard about the possible side effects of kelp on skin. :doh: I'm sorry I was being alarmist. I'll keep posted to let everyone know if this was successful for me....

Hello boukje :waving:
I'm embarrassed, I jumped to conclusions, I forgot that I had been under a lot more stress than usual; and I heard about the possible side effects of kelp on skin. :doh: I'm sorry I was being alarmist. I'll keep posted to let everyone know if this was successful for me....

Hello again forgetmenotak:waving: Don't worry about your post, I didn't feel bad about reading it. I just wanted to tell you that I do not know if I got the spots from the kelp or not.

Please do let us know how you are doing, I would love to read it :flower:

It's been a month since I started my new vitamin regimen. I take biotin, omega-3, kelp, spirulina, silica, msm, and evening primrose oil. It's a ton to swallow, but hey, I got over an inch of growth last month and I wasn't even taking them all month :cheese:

Yay!!!

I really need to start taking them again as well, and I will whenever I get my bloody car fixed and can go get some. :rolleyes:

I just bought some kelp last night, so we'll see how it goes!

When I mentioned to the clerk at the health food store that I read that it helped with hair growth he said no.... but hey, it can't hurt. It's just kelp. It's not like I'm saying that doing drugs would help hair growth, or something dangerous like that. This is good for me no matter what.
You'd think a health food store would be more open to new or uncommon uses for things, but aparently not.

My hair sure has been growing like a weed this month! So maybe kelp only helps when you are deficient in iodine or have a slow thyroid? I guess maybe it wouldn't help with growth if someone's thyroid is normal. Of course my growth could be due to it being so warm here. Maybe the best way to test kelp would be during winter when hair tends to grow more slowly.