Laminaria Extract is reviewed by your peers on dietblogtalk.com - the consumer authority on the web.  Sensational.com also has an in-depth and insightful review of Laminaria Extract.

My Initial Impression of Laminaria Extract

I have never heard the word Laminaria before and so I had to do a little digging around some nutrition websites I like to become better informed. Laminaria is actually another word for seaweed, it just sounds fancier. Seaweed is also referred to as Kelp, Japonica, Algae, and Wakame. No matter what it’s called, they are one in the same in nutritional value, with only their appearance being different. Nature’s Way markets the extract with some inflated claims for weight loss.

I’ll try to fill you in on what I learned about Laminaria itself before looking at what Nature’s Way claims about their extract of the seaweed. Sea Kelp or Laminaria is known to be a rich source of sixty minerals and elements including iodine, amino acids, and vitamins. The minerals are easily digested and metabolized into the body through eating the plant tissue. Traditionally, the plant was used as an aid in the treatment of heart disease, digestive problems, and thyroid deficiencies. What I’ve just shared with you has all kinds of scientific support, but notice that the notion that it can somehow enhance weight loss is missing from the science.

Laminaria Extract & What the Manufacturer Says They Will Do

Laminaria, otherwise referred to as seaweed grows along ocean coastlines. Botanically it is classified as algae. It is considered a rich source of natural vitamins and minerals, including essential trace minerals. It is rich in B vitamins, minerals and trace elements. Because of its rich iodine content, it is very useful in promoting a healthy thyroid. Seaweed is also good for healthy hair and nails, and is reputed to be beneficial to the brain and surrounding tissue.

Nature’s Way instructs that one capsule a day is all that is needed for the weight loss results to begin. The customer is guaranteed that the thyroid gland will increase to optimal levels, which they claim, will cause the body to burn fat more rapidly. The erroneous claim is made on the website that there is no need to reduce the intake of food or to exercise the body because the “fat simply melts away”. Nature’s Way proceeds to inform the customer that they may expect a 28-pound weight loss in one month. And if that isn’t fantastic enough for you—the extract melts fat 200% faster than total starvation.

The Main Drawbacks to Laminaria Extract

Laminaria extract is promoted as a miracle weight loss supplement and I that always raises my hackles. Weight loss is hard work that requires more than an iodine supplement and when you think of it, most of the reliable weight loss supplements on the market today don’t rely on iodine as their foundation ingredient. You are more likely to see herbal ingredients that promote appetite suppression or fat burning—but never with the claim of a “miracle”.

Would I try Laminaria Extract?

If I was unhealthy because of a thyroid deficiency, I would be apt to supplement with a natural source of iodine like kelp (or laminaria if you want to call it that)

What Others Are Saying About Laminaria Extract

Opinions are strong on weight loss issues and they are readily available on diet review sites for products like Laminaria extract.