Insea Brown Seaweed Blend
Also known as: Brown seaweed, kelp extracts, InSea2®, InSea Brown Seaweed Blend, Ascophyllum nodosum & Fucus vesiculosus Extract
Overview
The InSea Brown Seaweed Blend is a dietary supplement derived from extracts of two species of brown marine macroalgae: Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus. These seaweeds are rich in bioactive compounds such as polyphenols, fucoidan, and alginates. The blend is primarily utilized for its potential in glycemic regulation, specifically to mitigate postprandial (after-meal) blood glucose spikes and enhance insulin sensitivity. It functions by inhibiting digestive enzymes like α-amylase and α-glucosidase, thereby slowing down carbohydrate digestion and absorption. This supplement is also noted for its antioxidant properties and fiber content. Research into its efficacy is moderate, with several randomized controlled trials and meta-analyses supporting its use, particularly for individuals at risk of or managing type 2 diabetes.
Benefits
The primary benefit of InSea Brown Seaweed Blend is its ability to significantly reduce postprandial plasma glucose levels. Meta-analyses indicate a mean reduction of approximately –7.1 mg/dL in post-meal glucose (95% CI –7.4 to –6.9), with moderate to high evidence quality from systematic reviews and RCTs. It also improves insulin sensitivity, evidenced by a 12.1% reduction in insulin incremental area under the curve and a 7.9% increase in Cederholm index. Higher doses (≥1000 mg) have shown potential to improve HbA1c and HOMA-IR levels, which are markers for long-term glycemic control and insulin resistance. These effects are observed in healthy individuals, at-risk populations, and those with type 2 diabetes. While moderate in effect size, these benefits are clinically relevant for glycemic control. Acute effects are seen within hours, with longer-term benefits on HbA1c requiring sustained use over weeks to months. Secondary benefits like improved lipid profiles and intestinal health have been suggested but require further research.
How it works
The InSea Brown Seaweed Blend primarily works by inhibiting key digestive enzymes: α-amylase and α-glucosidase. These enzymes are responsible for breaking down complex carbohydrates into simpler sugars that can be absorbed into the bloodstream. By inhibiting their activity, the supplement slows down the digestion and absorption of carbohydrates in the gastrointestinal tract. This delay in glucose absorption leads to a blunted postprandial glucose response and subsequently, a reduced insulin demand. Beyond this, the blend may also contribute to improved insulin sensitivity and exert antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects through its rich polyphenol content. The active compounds, including polyphenols and polysaccharides, act locally in the gut to modulate glucose metabolism.
Side effects
The InSea Brown Seaweed Blend is generally well tolerated, with no serious adverse events consistently reported in randomized controlled trials. Common side effects (occurring in >5% of users) have not been identified. Uncommon side effects (1-5%) may include minor gastrointestinal discomfort, though this is not significant or frequently reported. Rare side effects (less than 1%) have not been documented. Potential drug interactions exist, particularly with antidiabetic medications, due to the supplement's glucose-lowering effects; caution and medical supervision are advised if combining. Contraindications are not specifically identified, but individuals with iodine sensitivity or pre-existing thyroid disorders should exercise caution due to the natural iodine content in seaweed and consult a healthcare provider. Safety during pregnancy and lactation has not been adequately studied, so use in these populations is not recommended without medical advice.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for InSea Brown Seaweed Blend, particularly for acute effects on insulin response, is around 500 mg of a standardized extract (e.g., InSea2®). For more pronounced and longer-term effects on HbA1c and insulin resistance markers, a daily dosage of ≥1000 mg may be more effective. The maximum safe dose has not been definitively established, but doses up to 1000 mg daily have been used safely in studies. For optimal efficacy, the supplement should typically be taken approximately 30 minutes before carbohydrate-containing meals. This timing allows the enzyme inhibitors to be present in the digestive tract when carbohydrates are consumed, maximizing their effect on carbohydrate breakdown and absorption. The blend is commonly available in standardized capsule or powder forms. Co-ingestion with carbohydrates is essential for its postprandial glucose modulation effects.
FAQs
Does InSea Brown Seaweed Blend lower fasting glucose?
Evidence suggests that InSea Brown Seaweed Blend has a modest or no significant effect on fasting glucose levels, but it significantly reduces postprandial (after-meal) glucose spikes.
Is it safe for long-term use?
Short- to medium-term use of InSea Brown Seaweed Blend appears safe and well-tolerated. However, comprehensive data on its long-term safety beyond several months are currently limited.
How quickly do effects appear?
Acute effects on postprandial glucose levels can be observed within hours of ingestion. Longer-term improvements in overall glycemic control, such as HbA1c, typically require consistent supplementation over several weeks to months.
Can it replace diabetes medications?
No, InSea Brown Seaweed Blend is not a substitute for prescribed diabetes medications. It may complement existing pharmacotherapy by helping to manage blood sugar, but it should not be used as a standalone treatment.
Are there any allergies or sensitivities?
Individuals may have sensitivities related to iodine content in seaweed. Those with thyroid disorders or known iodine allergies should consult a healthcare provider before using this supplement.
Research Sources
- https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC8990535/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 18 RCTs found that brown seaweed significantly reduces fasting and postprandial plasma glucose. The postprandial effects were stronger, showing a mean difference of –7.1 mg/dL. The study highlighted heterogeneity in species and doses across trials and noted a lack of high-quality, large-scale RCTs.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38068845/ – This meta-analysis of 23 studies concluded that seaweed supplementation effectively reduces postprandial glucose, HbA1c, and HOMA-IR. It also indicated that higher doses (≥1000 mg) were more effective in achieving these glycemic improvements. The review acknowledged heterogeneity among studies but provided a comprehensive overview of the current evidence.
- https://cdnsciencepub.com/doi/abs/10.1139/h11-115 – This randomized crossover placebo-controlled trial involving 18 healthy adults demonstrated that a single dose of 500 mg brown seaweed extract reduced insulin incremental AUC by 12.1% and improved insulin sensitivity. While it showed significant effects on insulin parameters, a significant reduction in glucose was not observed in this small-sample, single-dose study.
