Generally it is very encouraged to take sea moss to help reach high nutrient goals or has in general been added to your daily routine as a healthier alternative to other items. But there are some people who should avoid sea moss. This can be just for a period of time or should be avoided in general unless suggested by a health care professional.
It is suggested that sea moss be avoided while pregnant. At this time there is not enough research into sea moss during pregnancy and the effects during this period. A health care provider may approve sea moss consumption in some cases, but you should always speak to your doctor while pregnant before adding this to your routine. It may contain toxic metals like arsenic, mercury, and lead which could be dangerous to consume. Pregnant women are also generally recommended to consume limited amounts of seafood to avoid excess exposure to mercury.
If you are breastfeeding, you should also avoid consuming sea moss prior to speaking to a health care professional. Some information out there says that it is fine to consume while breastfeeding due to the extra nutrients, it is still best to ask beforehand. Due to the iodine content, it could cause issues with how your body produces and what could be getting past on to the child. Eating to much can also cause side effects such as digestive discomfort, heavy metal toxicity or iodine toxicity. None of which are things someone breastfeeding will want to have to go through all while trying to be at optimal health for both themselves and their child.
Sea moss can also alter the effects of some medications. One of the most notable is thyroid medication. The natural iodine levels in sea moss are what cause this issue. Iodine is what helps the thyroid gland make important hormones, thus causing a counter action with the medication.
People with iodine, sulfur or shellfish allergies should also avoid sea moss because it can cause an allergic reaction. Sea moss being a form seaweed can be a similar allergenic as someone who has a shellfish or sulfur allergy.
It is always recommended to avoid taking sea moss or sea moss products while pregnant or breastfeeding, have thyroid issues, on specific medications or have specific allergies until speaking with a health care professional.