Just a note of clarification about Algin, as I see that someone may have been given some incorrect information...

Algin is an extracted component of brown seaweed (kelp). It is the non-digestible fiber (or polysaccharide, in more technical terms) portion of kelp.

Although kelp does contain high amounts of iodine, Algin is separated from kelp during the manufacturing process and does not contain the amount of iodine typically found in kelp products. However, it is possible that Algin may contain "trace" amounts of iodine. Then of course, many foods that we eat contain trace amounts (or more) of iodine.

So, if a nutritionist is saying that a person shouldn't take Algin because of the high iodine content, this would not be correct.

If I had an over-active thyroid but wanted to use Algin for mercury detoxification, I would start out with a small amount to see how my body responds. If I didn't experience any hyperthyroid-like symptoms, then I'd probably continue the Algin as long as it didn't bother me.

There are other fiber supplements that might help in place of Algin, although I'm not sure they would work quite as well. You could try Slippery Elm or Psyllium Hulls.

Hope this helps clarify things.