A few months ago I discovered seaweed as a salt substitute, and have been using it ever since, because it is a huge source of iodine. And as we know, iodine is needed for our thyroids to function properly! So, whenever I used to use salt, I use seaweed now — in particular Mara Seaweed. It comes in a variety of favors from smokey to grassy to umani — reminiscent of Japanese flavors.

Mara Seaweed founder, Fiona Houston told me, that she has met many people who have improved their thyroid function by increasing their seaweed uptake. So, where we go! More seaweed = more iodine! It is one of the foods that is highest in this mineral. Brown seaweeds like Kombu and Wakame are particularly rich in iodine. Just adding 1/2 teaspoon of seaweed to our daily diets will give you 150mcg. If you have an under-active thyroid, you will need more that this recommended daily amount. Note, that iodine from food is in chelated form, so it is released much slower into the system than a supplement.

Mara Seaweed also published a cookbook and features great recipes on their website. Soups, marinates, drinks, dips and more. Do note, that you will need much more seaweed for a salty taste than you would salt.

Try it and let me know what you think!