Kelp Guide

Kelp is a type of seaweed and a natural source of iodine, an essential mineral that supports normal thyroid function. Learn how kelp fits into a wellness routine and what to consider when choosing a supplement.

✅ Reviewed by Jamieson's Science Team

Quick Answers

What is kelp?

Kelp is a type of large brown seaweed. Some kelp species naturally contain iodine and are used in natural health supplements.¹

Why is iodine in kelp important?

Iodine is an essential mineral that helps support the normal function of the thyroid gland.²

Is kelp the same as iodine?

No. Kelp is the seaweed source, while iodine is one of the nutrients it can naturally provide.

Can you get too much iodine from kelp?

Yes. Kelp can provide concentrated iodine, so the amount per serving matters and more isn’t necessarily better.²

What is kelp?

Kelp is a group of large brown seaweeds that grow in the ocean. Health Canada recognizes several kelp species for use in natural health products, including Laminaria digitata and Saccharina japonica.¹ 

Kelp naturally contains minerals from seawater, including iodine. In Jamieson Kelp, iodine is the medicinal ingredient responsible for the product’s thyroid-health benefit.

How does kelp support the body?

The main nutritional role of kelp supplements is as a source of iodine. Your thyroid needs iodine to make thyroid hormones, which help regulate many normal processes throughout the body.² 

Jamieson Kelp is positioned as a natural iodine source that helps support proper thyroid gland function and the maintenance of good health.

Which health goals can kelp support?

Everyday Wellness

Kelp provides iodine, an essential mineral that helps support normal thyroid function.²

Thyroid Function

Iodine from kelp helps support the proper functioning of the thyroid gland.

Iodine Intake

Kelp can provide a concentrated natural source of iodine when additional intake is appropriate.

How can kelp fit into your routine?

Kelp supplements are mainly used as a convenient natural source of iodine. 

  • For thyroid support: Iodine is needed for normal thyroid function.² 
  • Consider your diet: Seafood, dairy foods, eggs, and iodized salt may already contribute iodine. 
  • Check other supplements: Multivitamins and prenatal products may already contain iodine. 
  • Be consistent, not excessive: Because kelp can provide a concentrated amount of iodine, follow the product directions rather than assuming more is better. 

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

What should you look for in a kelp supplement?

Start with how much iodine the kelp product provides, not just the amount of kelp itself.

  • Check the iodine amount: This tells you how much of the key mineral the supplement provides. 
  • Check the source: Kelp products may use different recognized seaweed species.¹ 
  • Compare your total iodine intake: Food, iodized salt, multivitamins, and other supplements can all contribute. 
  • Consider thyroid health: Speak with a healthcare practitioner if you have a thyroid condition or take thyroid medication. 
  • Check the label for allergens: Jamieson Kelp may contain fish and/or shellfish ingredients. 
  • Look for an NPN: Choose a licensed natural health product with an eight-digit NPN. 
  • Look for quality: Jamieson products are backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise. 

For more than 100 years, Jamieson has combined scientific expertise with rigorous quality testing. Every product is backed by the Jamieson 360 Quality Promise.

*It is important to consult your trusted healthcare practitioner before adding any new natural health supplement to your routine. 

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FAQs
Is kelp a good source of iodine?

Yes. Kelp can naturally contain iodine, and Jamieson specifically positions its Kelp product as a natural iodine source.

Is kelp the same as iodine?

No. Kelp is seaweed. Iodine is an essential mineral naturally found in kelp and is the medicinal ingredient in Jamieson Kelp.

How much iodine is in Jamieson Kelp?

Each Jamieson Kelp tablet provides 650 mcg of iodine. Adults and adolescents aged 14 and older take one tablet daily according to the current directions.

Sources

1. Health Canada. Kelp Products Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated October 25, 2024.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/dbImages/mono_kelp-products_english.pdf 

2. Health Canada. Multi-Vitamin/Mineral Supplements Monograph. Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate. Updated June 26, 2026.[Text Wrapping Break]https://webprod.hc-sc.gc.ca/nhpid-bdipsn/atReq?atid=multi_vitmin_suppl