There are a number of additives present in our food today, particularly in ultra-processed foods (UPFs). Feel free to check out our recent blog post if you’re not familiar with UPFs! Studies are beginning to find evidence that various emulsifiers — such as gums (e.g., cellulose gum, xanthan gum, guar gum, etc.) and chemical additives (e.g., mono- and diglycerides, polysorbates) — exacerbate symptoms of those with irritable bowel disease (IBD) and alter the gut microbiome overall.
Here at Uncracked, we’re developing a 100% seaweed-based functional ingredient to replace such additives in the food and beverage industry. Why seaweed? Well, one reason is that it actually has gut beneficial properties.
Seaweed…
1) Modulates gut microbial makeup and diversity
Various seaweed species contain different kinds of polysaccharides (carbohydrates), many of which have been shown to increase levels of beneficial bacteria in animal and in vitro (in the lab) studies. Some byproducts of these polysaccharides when they are digested by bacteria in the gut also help maintain a lower pH environment that fights pathogens.
2) Reduces inflammation
Some seaweed polysaccharides have anti-inflammatory properties in the gut, and other compounds such as carotenoids and polyunsaturated fats also contribute to seaweed’s anti-inflammatory benefits.
3) Improves the gut barrier
The colon has two layers of mucus. The outer layer serves as a home for symbiotic bacteria, and the inner layer, being largely sterile, protects the gut from pathogens and disease. Studies have found that seaweed polysaccharides help fortify the colon’s mucosal layer, which may help prevent infection.
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