Characteristics
- Common name: Fucus
- Other name(s): Varech, Kelp
- Scientific name(s): Fucus Vesiculosus
- Family: Phaeophyceae
- Origin: North Sea, English Channel, North Atlantic
- Part(s) used: Stem
- Major constituents: Iodine - Mucilage
Properties and indications
Weight loss
If excess weight is a direct result of thyroid dysfunction and slow metabolism, thyroid stimulation by fucus will increase this metabolism and therefore we can see:
- Increased energy expenditure
- A reduction in fat deposits and therefore weight loss
This seaweed is an excellent appetite suppressant.
In fact, the mucilage it contains, once ingested, swells on contact with water and quickly produces a feeling of satiety.
Menstrual regulation
Some women sometimes experience menstrual cycle problems related to hormonal imbalances.
Some studies have shown that taking fucus may prolong the duration of very short cycles.
Further research is needed to confirm this effect.
The thyroid gland plays a vital role in regulating our body: it controls our mood, our sleep, our weight, our sex hormones?
This is why, when it malfunctions, many symptoms appear.
Fucus is an algae very rich in iodine, which makes it an interesting food supplement for the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.
Iodine is essential for the thyroid gland and is a building block for the synthesis of thyroid hormones.
When the thyroid absorbs iodine, it combines it with tyrosine to synthesise two hormones: thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3).
Dosage
For weight loss:
- 130 mg (dried fucus powder), 2 times a day, 15 to 30 minutes before meals.
- Do not exceed 3 weeks treatment
Contraindication
Fucus may be contraindicated in iodine allergy or hyperthyroidism, heart failure, renal failure, acne.
It should not be used by children, pregnant or breastfeeding women.
No known adverse effects, respect doses to avoid any risk of overdose.