Carrageenan is one of the common types of additive, it could be found on some of the processed foods that can be found mainly in ice cream, cottage cheese, chocolate milk, processed meat, hotdogs and some frozen desserts. It is derived from red seaweed and is commonly used as thickener, stabilizer, and emulsifier in some of the dairy products. Aside from this, it is also used for medicine especially to those who have coughs, bronchitis, tuberculosis and intestinal problems. Some people also apply carrageenan directly around the skin around their anus if they have experiencing certain discomfort. Well if you were thinking of losing weight, the intake of carrageenan can help you to do so, because it has some ingredients that are also helpful in losing weight. It contains some chemicals that can help in the decrease of secretion of the stomach and intestine, it seem to be helpful in pulling the water into the intestine that is why it is considered as a laxative product. Aside from this, it can also decrease pain and swelling.
How Carrageenan is Used
Though it is known to be effective in many ways, just like some medicine it can also cause negative impact to its users. Some of its side effects are:
• It can cause inflammation of the colon and large intestine.
• It can cause life threatening allergic reaction.
• Can cause ulceration.
• Cancer of the gastrointestinal tract.
• It can cause the pores in the intestinal tract to become larger which permits the large molecules of the undigested food to enter into the bloodstream.
• Can cause burden on the lymphatic system.
• Flatulence.
• Bloating.
• Diarrhea.
• Cause blood in the stool.
Carrageenan is said to be a helpful additives, but it is also known as one of the dangerous additives that can cause health risks. That is why before the intake of it, people must aware of the ingredients that it contain because sometimes the ingredients of such medicine can cause harm instead of treating diseases. It is important to consult the doctor if it is safe on you, let your doctor know you medical history, and the other medicines that you are taking aside from Carrageenan. Some medicines can react with carrageenan that is why it is better to ask your doctor on the safe ways to do to avoid it. Pregnant women and those that are having breast feed should avoid the use of this because there might be some side effects that it can cause to the child.