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A study has identified carrageenan, a widely used food additive derived from red seaweed and found in products like meat, cheese, and dairy alternatives, as being associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes. The health concerns linked to carrageenan are significant. In a typical Western diet, the daily intake of carrageenan can vary from 250 milligrams to between 2 and 4 grams per person.
Past research has associated this chemical with ulcers, chronic inflammatory bowel disease, and increased blood sugar in animals. The recent study was conducted as a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial involving a group of 20 young, healthy male participants over two weeks. Participants received either a placebo or a dosage of carrageenan that was up to three times the typical daily intake in the U.S., administered in addition to their normal diet.
The researchers focused on how carrageenan affects the body's insulin response, a hormone crucial for controlling blood sugar levels. The study primarily measured insulin sensitivity using several methods, such as the oral glucose tolerance test, to gauge key outcomes.
Although overall insulin sensitivity did not vary significantly, the study found that participants with higher body weights demonstrated reduced insulin responsiveness. These individuals also showed elevated levels of inflammation in the blood and the hypothalamus, a brain area critical for controlling appetite, energy expenditure, and hormone regulation.
The research indicated that carrageenan was associated with increased intestinal absorption, implying that the participants' digestive tracts might more readily allow substances to enter the bloodstream. This finding lends credence to the idea that the additive might impact insulin sensitivity through increased inflammatory processes.
You can easily avoid the additive by opting for a diet rich in whole foods that remain close to their natural state. Always inspect the label on packaged foods to avoid carrageenan and other potentially harmful additives. It is recommended to follow a diet centered around whole, plant-based foods.
Although the findings indicate that more research on the effects of carrageenan on human health could be valuable, the current studies have been limited to a small and relatively uniform group of participants.
To view the original scientific study click below:
Carrageenan and insulin resistance in humans: a randomised double-blind cross-over trial
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