Seagreens
Also known as: Seagreens, seaweed blends, brown seaweed extract, rockweed, knotted wrack, Ascophyllum nodosum
Overview
Seagreens is a commercial brand of dietary supplements primarily composed of whole seaweed blends, with a significant component being the brown seaweed species *Ascophyllum nodosum*. These supplements are derived from sustainably harvested macroalgae, mainly from the North Atlantic. Seaweeds are recognized for their rich content of bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides (like alginate and fucoidan), polyphenols, and essential minerals such as iodine, calcium, and magnesium, along with various vitamins. Seagreens is utilized for its potential to support cardiovascular health, improve lipid profiles, aid in weight management, and contribute to overall metabolic well-being. It is also being explored for its antioxidant and immune-modulating properties. The evidence base for seaweed supplementation, in general, is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting modest benefits, particularly for lipid profiles and obesity-related metabolic parameters.
Benefits
Seagreens, through its primary component *Ascophyllum nodosum* and other macroalgae, offers several evidence-based benefits. A meta-analysis of 8 randomized controlled trials (n=438 participants) demonstrated significant reductions in total cholesterol (weighted mean difference ≈ −6.7 mg/dL) and LDL cholesterol (weighted mean difference ≈ −8.25 mg/dL) following macroalgae supplementation. These reductions, while modest, are statistically significant and relevant for cardiovascular risk reduction. Another systematic review and meta-analysis indicated a modest but consistent reduction in BMI (standardized mean difference: −0.40; 95% CI: −0.65 to −0.15) and improvements in other obesity-related metabolic markers after at least 8 weeks of edible seaweed supplementation. These benefits are particularly observed in overweight and obese adults. While no significant changes in HDL cholesterol or fasting blood glucose have been consistently noted, some evidence suggests potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects, though these require further validation. The clinical significance of these effects may vary depending on an individual's baseline health status and the duration of supplementation, with effects typically observed after 8 weeks or longer.
How it works
The beneficial effects of Seagreens are primarily attributed to its rich composition of polysaccharides and polyphenols. Alginate and fucoidan fibers, key polysaccharides, are believed to bind bile acids in the gut, which subsequently reduces the absorption of dietary cholesterol and promotes its excretion. This mechanism contributes to the observed improvements in lipid profiles. Polyphenols present in seaweed exert antioxidant effects, helping to reduce oxidative stress within the body. Furthermore, seaweed polysaccharides may modulate the gut microbiota, influencing metabolic health through various pathways. While polysaccharides largely act locally in the digestive system due to their non-digestible nature, smaller bioactive molecules may be absorbed systemically. The interaction with body systems primarily involves the cardiovascular system (through lipid metabolism), the digestive system (via fiber effects), and potentially the immune system through immunomodulation.
Side effects
Seagreens is generally considered safe for consumption, with a low risk of adverse effects when taken at typical doses. The most common side effects, affecting more than 5% of users, are mild gastrointestinal discomforts such as bloating and gas, primarily due to its high fiber content. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include iodine-related thyroid effects, particularly in individuals susceptible to such issues. Rare side effects (less than 1%) include allergic reactions, though no serious adverse events have been frequently reported in clinical trials. Regarding drug interactions, caution is advised for individuals taking thyroid medications due to the iodine content in seaweed, which can interfere with thyroid function. There's also a potential for interference with anticoagulants due to the presence of vitamin K in some seaweed varieties. Contraindications include known allergies to seaweed. Individuals with pre-existing thyroid disorders should use Seagreens only under medical supervision. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should consult their healthcare providers before use, and monitoring of iodine intake is recommended for all users to avoid excessive levels.
Dosage
While a definitive minimum effective dose for Seagreens has not been established, clinical studies on seaweed supplementation typically utilize varied doses equivalent to 1–3 grams per day of dried seaweed or extracts. Optimal dosage ranges observed in clinical trials often fall between 1–5 grams per day of seaweed powder or extracts standardized for active compounds. There is no officially established maximum safe dose; however, it is crucial to avoid excessive iodine intake, generally defined as exceeding 600 micrograms per day, especially for individuals with thyroid sensitivities. For best tolerance and potential absorption, daily dosing with meals is often recommended. Seagreens can be consumed in various forms, including powder, capsules, or incorporated into foods, though bioavailability may vary between forms. While no specific cofactors are required, maintaining a balanced diet is always recommended. The high fiber content may potentially reduce the absorption of some nutrients, and this should be considered in overall dietary planning.
FAQs
Is Seagreens effective for weight loss?
Seagreens may contribute to a modest reduction in BMI as part of a holistic lifestyle approach, but it is not a standalone weight loss solution. Its effects are generally observed in conjunction with other healthy habits.
Is it safe for thyroid health?
Generally safe, but caution is advised due to its iodine content. Individuals with pre-existing thyroid conditions should consult a healthcare provider and monitor their iodine intake to prevent adverse effects.
When can I expect to see results from Seagreens?
Benefits on lipid profiles and BMI typically become noticeable after at least 8 weeks of consistent supplementation. Individual results may vary based on diet, lifestyle, and baseline health.
Can Seagreens replace my current medications?
No, Seagreens should not replace prescribed medications. It is intended to complement, not substitute, conventional medical treatments. Always consult your doctor before making changes to your medication regimen.
Does Seagreens cause allergies?
Allergic reactions to seaweed are rare but possible. If you experience any allergic symptoms such as rash, itching, or swelling, discontinue use immediately and seek medical attention.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10495559/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 8 RCTs (n=438) investigated macroalgae supplementation and found significant reductions in total cholesterol (WMD = −6.7 mg/dL) and LDL cholesterol (WMD = −8.25 mg/dL). No significant effects on HDL or fasting glucose were observed. The study highlights the potential of macroalgae for cardiovascular health, despite limitations such as small sample sizes and heterogeneity in seaweed types.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38749056/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis (PROSPERO CRD42022378484) focused on edible seaweed supplementation (≥8 weeks) and reported a significant BMI reduction (SMD: −0.40) and improvements in obesity-related metabolic parameters. The study's quality was moderate, and it noted heterogeneity in the types of seaweed species and doses used across the included RCTs.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article-abstract/83/2/e116/7674875 – This source appears to be the full text or a related publication to the meta-analysis on edible seaweed supplementation and obesity-related metabolic parameters. It likely provides detailed methodology and results supporting the observed BMI reductions and metabolic improvements, reinforcing the findings summarized in the previous entry.
- https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/raq.12504 – This meta-analysis examined seaweed extracts as immunostimulants in aquaculture, demonstrating positive health effects in fish. While it supports the general bioactivity of seaweed compounds, its direct human clinical relevance for Seagreens' specific health benefits is limited, serving more as background on seaweed's broad biological activity.
- https://ui.adsabs.harvard.edu/abs/2021RvAq...13..907T/abstract – This abstract likely pertains to a review or research on aquaculture, potentially related to the use of seaweed in animal feed or its environmental impact. Similar to the previous source, while it underscores the scientific interest in seaweed, its direct applicability to human health benefits of Seagreens is indirect.