Arsenic Poisoning from Herbal Kelp Supplements
Author Information
Author(s): Eric Amster, Asheesh Tiwary, Marc B. Schenker
Primary Institution: University of California, Davis
Hypothesis
Can herbal kelp supplements cause arsenic toxicosis?
Conclusion
The study found that eight out of nine commercially available kelp supplements contained detectable levels of arsenic, which can lead to serious health issues.
Supporting Evidence
- Eight of the nine kelp samples tested contained arsenic levels above FDA tolerance.
- The patient experienced severe symptoms that resolved after stopping the kelp supplements.
- Urine arsenic levels decreased significantly after discontinuation of the supplements.
Takeaway
Some kelp supplements can have dangerous levels of arsenic, which can make people very sick. Stopping these supplements can help them feel better.
Methodology
Analyzed nine samples of kelp supplements for arsenic content using inductively coupled argon plasma spectrometry.
Limitations
The estimated dose of exposure was based on limited analyses, making it approximate.
Participant Demographics
One 54-year-old woman with a history of health issues.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
Want to read the original?
Access the complete publication on the publisher's website