Mari
Also known as: Seaweed, Marine Algae, Macroalgae, Dietary Seaweed
Overview
The term "Mari" as a supplement ingredient is ambiguous and does not correspond to a specific, known entity in scientific literature. However, based on the provided research, the closest relevant area of study is "dietary seaweed" supplementation. Seaweed is a natural source of various bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, minerals, and antioxidants. Seaweed supplements are primarily investigated for their potential benefits in metabolic health, particularly concerning obesity-related parameters, and for micronutrient supplementation. Research, such as a 2025 systematic review and meta-analysis by Łagowska et al., indicates a growing interest in the effects of dietary seaweed on obesity-related metabolic status, suggesting a moderate maturity in this research field. While no direct supplement named "Mari" was identified, the properties and effects discussed pertain to the general category of dietary seaweed.
Benefits
Dietary seaweed supplementation has shown promising benefits, particularly in metabolic health. A high-quality systematic review and meta-analysis by Łagowska et al. (2025) demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in body mass index (BMI) with seaweed supplementation. The standardized mean difference (SMD) was -0.40 (95% CI: -0.65 to -0.15), favoring the intervention group, indicating a moderate beneficial effect on obesity-related outcomes. This suggests that individuals looking to manage their weight or improve metabolic markers may benefit from seaweed supplementation. While not detailed in the provided research, other literature suggests seaweed may offer antioxidant effects, improve lipid profiles, and possess anti-inflammatory properties, though the strength of evidence for these additional benefits was not assessed in the provided context.
How it works
Dietary seaweed contains various bioactive compounds, including fucoidans, alginates, and polyphenols, which are believed to be responsible for its health benefits. These compounds can modulate metabolic pathways, potentially by influencing nutrient absorption and interacting with gut microbiota. For instance, alginates can form viscous gels in the digestive tract, which may reduce calorie absorption and promote satiety. Polyphenols and other antioxidants can help reduce oxidative stress. While the exact mechanisms are complex and multifaceted, these compounds collectively contribute to the observed metabolic improvements, such as BMI reduction, by influencing lipid metabolism and overall energy balance within the body.
Side effects
The safety profile of dietary seaweed supplements is generally considered good. However, potential side effects and risks are primarily associated with excessive intake or the source of the seaweed. High consumption can lead to iodine overload, especially in individuals with pre-existing thyroid conditions, as seaweed is a rich source of iodine. Additionally, seaweed can accumulate heavy metals (e.g., arsenic, cadmium, lead, mercury) from its marine environment, posing a risk if sourced from contaminated waters. The provided research did not detail specific adverse effects or contraindications related to seaweed. No drug interactions were identified in the provided text. Individuals with thyroid disorders or those taking medications that affect thyroid function should consult a healthcare professional before using seaweed supplements.
Dosage
The provided research, specifically the meta-analysis on dietary seaweed, did not specify exact dosing regimens. Generally, the recommended dosage for seaweed supplements varies significantly depending on the specific type of seaweed, its preparation (e.g., whole, extract), and the concentration of active compounds. Factors such as the intended health benefit and individual tolerance also play a role. Due to the potential for iodine overload and heavy metal accumulation, it is crucial to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended dosage on product labels and to choose reputable brands that test for contaminants. Without specific guidance from the research, a general recommendation cannot be provided, and consultation with a healthcare professional is advised to determine an appropriate and safe dosage.
FAQs
What is 'Mari' in the context of supplements?
The term 'Mari' is not a recognized supplement ingredient. The research provided suggests it might be a misinterpretation, with the closest relevant topic being dietary seaweed, which is a natural source of various beneficial compounds.
Can dietary seaweed help with weight loss?
Yes, a meta-analysis showed that dietary seaweed supplementation led to a statistically significant reduction in body mass index (BMI), suggesting a moderate beneficial effect on obesity-related outcomes.
Are there any safety concerns with seaweed supplements?
While generally safe, excessive intake of seaweed can lead to iodine overload, especially for individuals with thyroid conditions. There's also a risk of heavy metal accumulation depending on the source. Always choose reputable brands.
How long does it take to see benefits from seaweed supplementation?
The research did not specify a timeline. However, based on the nature of metabolic changes, benefits like BMI reduction would likely be observed over weeks to months of consistent supplementation.
Research Sources
- https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/fullarticle/2338251 – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Whiting et al. (2015) evaluated the efficacy of cannabinoids for chronic pain. It found some evidence for pain improvement but often without statistical significance, noting a high risk of bias across many included studies, indicating moderate quality evidence.
- https://academic.oup.com/nutritionreviews/article-abstract/83/2/e116/7674875 – The Łagowska et al. (2025) systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the effects of dietary seaweed on obesity-related metabolic status. It concluded that seaweed supplementation significantly reduced BMI (SMD -0.40), providing high-quality evidence for its moderate beneficial effect on weight management.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34626488/ – This systematic review and meta-analysis by Vlieg-Boerstra et al. (2022) assessed nutrient supplementation for viral respiratory tract infections. It evaluated vitamins D, zinc, and others, but its findings are not directly relevant to the metabolic effects of seaweed or the 'Mari' query.
Supplements Containing Mari
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