First, it was kale, then matcha – now, the latest superfood to enter the zeitgeist? Sea moss gel.
Bella Hadid’s morning routine includes it, while Hailey Bieber’s Strawberry Glaze Skin Erewhon smoothie also famously heroes the beige jelly.
Now, on TikTok, users are eating what appears to be slime off the spoon like it’s Nutella (although we can’t imagine it tastes as nice).
Why? According to some, sea moss gel can boost your immune system, heal gut health and improve fertility.
However, as one jar of sea moss gel can cost $40 for just 375mL in Australia, is it worth it? Read on for our deep dive.
What is sea moss gel?
Sea moss gel is a natural product of a few types of red algae, specifically Irish, Eucheuma Cottonii Gold or Gold Sea Moss.
These forms of sea moss are rich in vitamins and minerals including iodine, iron, calcium, magnesium, and potassium.
While we can consume these varieties raw or in powder or capsule form, sea moss gel is made by soaking the plant in water, draining and then blending.
This jelly-like consistency makes it ideal for adding to smoothies, mixing with water to consume like a puree or even using it in your skincare routine. We love a multi-tasking queen!
What does sea moss gel claim to do?
Jade Harman, Clinical Nutritionist at Harman Health says sea moss gel’s popularity is due to the volume of vitamins and nutrients in sea moss.
However, fanatics of the gel are citing some lofty benefits, including improving:
- Symptoms of Parkinson’s disease
- Thyroid health
- Immune system
- Skin health
- Gut health
- Fertility and libido
While this sounds promising, Harman explains research on the actual health benefits of the gelatinous substance is in its infancy.
“Many of the claims about sea moss gels are based on very little and very low-quality evidence,” she advises.
“A small amount of animal studies have shown some benefits, but we need to see more comprehensive, high-quality studies in humans before these claims can be substantiated.”
Furthermore, Wellness Expert and Founder of JSHealth Vitamins Jessica Sepel doesn’t recommend relying solely on sea moss supplements.
“Yes, sea moss gel does contain minerals like iodine, calcium, and magnesium, which are beneficial, but there are far more effective, concentrated sources of these nutrients,” Sepel notes.
“I always recommend focusing on a variety of whole foods and getting these minerals from a balanced diet.”
What are the risks?
Sepel explains you need to take extra caution if you want to try sea moss gel.
“Sea moss can contain heavy metals and contaminants if harvested from polluted waters,” she says.
“If it’s not sourced from a reputable supplier, it could do more harm than good.”
The contaminants in question include arsenic, mercury and lead. All of which are dangerous in large amounts.
Additionally, while the gel contains iodine, the European Thyroid Association suggests that too much could trigger hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism.
As a result, those with conditions including hyperthyroidism, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis and autoimmune thyroiditis should avoid the algae altogether.
“As with any supplement, I would always recommend chatting to a health provider first as there’s always risks associated with any supplementation,” Harman notes.
“When buying supplements in Australia, you want to ensure you’re buying ones that have approval and registration with the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) so you know the product has been tested for safety.”
So, is it worth it?
Both Sepel and Harman agree that while celebs and TikTokkers might sing sea moss gel’s praises, it is not worth the hype.
“At best, sea moss gel is likely an expensive multivitamin at this point, and even then, a balanced diet will be more effective at improving your health than any multivitamin will,” Harman says.
