“I’ve heard a lot about carrageenan recently in the news. What exactly is it and why is it potentially harmful?” ~ Olivia
Fantastic question Olivia! Carrageenan is a seaweed derivative that is used as an additive in many foods (particularly dairy products, dairy alternatives and creamy desserts) as a thickener and to improve mouth feel. While seaweed extracts sound relatively innocuous on the spectrum of food additives they have been linked to significant bowel symptoms including IBS and the bowel inflammation of inflammatory bowel disease (Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis) and cancer. I personally would avoid foods containing carrageenan as much as possible, especially if you suffer from or have a family history of any kind of bowel condition or cancer. Check out this list to see if any of the organic dairy/dairy alternatives you use contains carrageenan and for organic alternatives to choose instead.
Have a nutrition question? Please ask in the comments below or on Facebook and your question might be a featured in an upcoming Ask the Nutritionista article!
Love what you are reading? Stay in the loop and never miss a recipe; subscribe to our FREE Nutritionista ezine for free expert tips, success strategies and delicious healthy recipes and receive Erin’s exclusive list of the Top Ten Foods to Banish From Your Kitchen ($24.99 value) absolutely free! Get ready to nourish yourself sexy!
© 2013 Nutritionista. Erin Luyendyk, RHN. All rights reserved.
All material found on www.thenutritionista.ca is intended as general educational material only and should not be considered medical or nutritional advice. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or cure any medical condition and has not been evaluated by the FDA. Please consult with your personal physician before implementing any health, nutrition, supplement or exercise program to ensure its safety and suitability for your specific individual situation
