What is Carrageenan?
Carrageenan, labeled as E 407, is a food additive derived from red seaweed. It’s commonly used in items like ice cream, yogurt, and plant-based milk to improve texture and consistency. While it’s long been considered safe, new research is raising questions about its effects on digestive health.
What Did Scientists Discover?
A recent study examined how carrageenan impacts gut health in healthy young men. Participants consumed amounts equivalent to two to three times the average daily intake in the U.S. After two weeks, researchers observed increased permeability in their small intestines, suggesting that carrageenan might compromise the gut barrier. This barrier acts as a protective layer in the digestive system, and disruptions can lead to health concerns.
Gut Health and “Leaky Gut”
The intestinal barrier functions like a security gate, controlling what substances pass into the bloodstream. When this barrier becomes “leaky,” it can allow harmful particles to enter, triggering inflammation and potentially leading to chronic health problems. Animal studies have previously linked carrageenan to conditions like inflammatory bowel disease and high blood sugar levels, suggesting similar risks for humans.
Is Carrageenan Safe?
Although carrageenan is widely approved for use in food products and deemed safe by regulatory authorities, these findings challenge its reputation. The study highlights that consuming carrageenan could disrupt the gut’s protective barrier, potentially increasing the risk of inflammation-related diseases. However, more research is necessary to fully understand the long-term effects and establish safe levels of consumption.
How to Protect Your Gut Health
If you’re concerned about carrageenan in your diet, start by reading ingredient labels on processed foods. Reducing your intake of foods containing E 407 could help limit potential risks. Opting for whole, minimally processed foods is another proactive way to safeguard your gut health and overall well-being.
Source: Learn more about the study
