Food additives are substances added to foods to improve their taste, appearance, and shelf life. While many additives are considered safe for consumption, some have been linked to adverse effects on health.

One of the most concerning effects is gut inflammation caused by certain food additives. In this article, we’ll discuss the most common food additive that can lead to gut inflammation and how to avoid it.

What is gut inflammation?

Gut inflammation is a condition in which the lining of the digestive tract becomes inflamed. This inflammation can be caused by a variety of factors, including bacterial or viral infections, certain medications, and food allergies or intolerances.

Symptoms of gut inflammation can include bloating, cramping, diarrhea, and constipation.

Carrageenan: The common food additive that leads to gut inflammation

Carrageenan is a common food additive derived from red seaweed. It is used as a thickening agent in many foods, including dairy products, processed meats, and canned foods.

Carrageenan has been used as a food additive for decades and is considered safe by regulatory agencies such as the FDA. However, recent studies have shown that carrageenan can cause gut inflammation, even at low doses.

One study published in the journal Environmental Health Perspectives found that carrageenan can disrupt the gut microbiome and cause inflammation in the digestive tract.

Another study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry found that carrageenan can trigger an immune response in the gut, leading to inflammation.

How does Carrageenan cause gut inflammation?

Carrageenan is a complex polysaccharide that is not easily digested by the human body. When ingested, carrageenan passes through the digestive tract intact and can interact with the gut microbiome, leading to inflammation.

Carrageenan has been shown to disrupt the gut microbiota, causing an overgrowth of harmful bacteria and a reduction in beneficial bacteria. This imbalance in the gut microbiome can lead to gut inflammation and other digestive problems.

How to avoid Carrageenan?

The easiest way to avoid carrageenan is to read food labels carefully. It is often found in dairy products, such as ice cream, yogurt, and cream cheese, as well as in processed meats, such as deli meats and sausages.

Carrageenan is also commonly used in plant-based milk alternatives, such as almond milk and soy milk.

When shopping for food, look for products that are labeled as “carrageenan-free.” It is also a good idea to choose whole foods, such as fresh vegetables, fruit, and lean proteins, that do not contain any additives.

The bottom line

Carrageenan is a common food additive that can lead to gut inflammation. While it is considered safe by regulatory agencies, recent studies have shown that it can have adverse effects on the gut microbiome and cause inflammation in the digestive tract.

To avoid carrageenan, it is important to read food labels carefully and choose whole foods whenever possible.