Investigating the Impact of the Seaweed Derived Food Additive, Carrageenan, on the Human Gut Microbiome

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF READING · Dec 12, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a food additive called carrageenan, which is derived from seaweed, on the human gut microbiome, which is the community of bacteria in our digestive system. The researchers want to know if eating a specific type of gummy sweet that contains carrageenan and another ingredient called inulin for four weeks can change the types of bacteria in healthy individuals’ guts. They will compare the results to those who eat a similar gummy sweet without these additives. Participants will need to eat two of these gummy sweets each day and provide stool and urine samples on three occasions over nine weeks. They will also report on how comfortable they feel in their digestive system.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be healthy individuals aged between 65 and 74 years. They cannot have taken antibiotics in the last three months, nor have any digestive disorders like irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Those with food allergies or who regularly consume prebiotics or probiotics are also excluded. This study is currently recruiting participants, and it offers a chance to contribute to our understanding of how certain food additives can impact gut health.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Healthy individuals
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Prescribed antibiotics in the last 3 months
• • Individuals with any gut disorders such as IBS or IBD
• • individuals with any food allergies or intolerances
• • Individuals who regularly consume pre or probiotics