A RECENT study reveals that carrageenan, a common food additive, may impair insulin sensitivity and increase inflammation in overweight individuals, raising concerns about its long-term impact on metabolic health.
The research, involved a randomised, double-blind, cross-over trial with 20 male participants. While overall insulin sensitivity did not significantly differ between carrageenan and placebo treatments, notable effects were observed in participants with higher BMI. Overweight individuals exposed to carrageenan experienced reduced whole-body and hepatic insulin sensitivity, increased brain inflammation markers, and elevated levels of inflammatory cytokines, such as IL-6 and CRP. The study also linked carrageenan consumption to increased intestinal permeability and immune cell activation, which are known contributors to metabolic dysfunction.
Lead researchers emphasised that while carrageenan-induced insulin resistance has been well-documented in animal models, these findings shed light on its potential risks in humans, particularly those predisposed to metabolic disorders. The study underscores the need for further investigation into how food additives like carrageenan may exacerbate health issues in at-risk populations, such as those with overweight or obesity.
These findings call for heightened awareness among healthcare professionals and policymakers about the dietary sources of inflammation and insulin resistance, especially in Western diets heavily reliant on processed foods containing additives like carrageenan.
Aleksandra Zurowska, EMJ
Reference
Wagner R et al. Carrageenan and insulin resistance in humans: a randomised double-blind cross-over trial. BMC Med. 2024; DOI:10.1186/s12916-024-03771-8.
