Peril of the Shallows?: Elevated Arsenic in Kelp Supplements
2007
Risks of Arsenic in Kelp Supplements
Sample size: 1
publication
Evidence: low
Author Information
Author(s): Cynthia Washam
Primary Institution: University of California, Davis
Hypothesis
Are kelp supplements safe given the potential for arsenic contamination?
Conclusion
Kelp supplements can contain harmful levels of arsenic, leading to serious health issues.
Supporting Evidence
- Only one of the nine tested kelp supplement samples contained no detectable arsenic.
- The patient's urine arsenic concentration was significantly above normal levels.
- After stopping the kelp supplements, the woman's symptoms resolved and her urine arsenic levels dropped.
Takeaway
Some kelp supplements have arsenic in them, which can make you sick, so it's important to be careful with what you take.
Methodology
The case of a woman taking kelp supplements was investigated, including urine tests and analysis of supplement samples.
Limitations
The study is based on a single case report.
Participant Demographics
A 54-year-old woman.
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