Carrageenan
Sulphated polysaccharide extracted from red seaweed used as a thickener, gelling agent, and stabiliser. E407. IARC Group 3. Degraded carrageenan (poligeenan) is carcinogenic in animal studies; food-grade carrageenan is distinct but subject to ongoing safety review.
How it works (mechanism of action)
Acts on cellular signalling pathways relevant to the documented clinical indications. Contains bioactive compounds with enzyme-modulating, receptor-binding, or antioxidant properties studied in peer-reviewed literature.
GI sensitivity: diarrhoea, bloating in sensitive individuals. IARC Group 3 for poligeenan (degraded form). Some animal studies raise inflammation concerns. Infants: avoid in infant formula (EU removed from approved list 2013). IBD patients: theoretical concern — GI inflammation promotion.