Antioxidant Support
Carrageenan Background and Benefits

Carrageenans are a group of similar sulfated polysaccharides. They are used in the food industry for a variety of purposes, generally as thickening and stabilising agents. The ability of carrageenans to bind proteins makes them particularly useful in meat and dairy products. Carrageenan is also widely used in juices and infant formulas.
The main commercial sources of carrageenan are various species of edible red algae. The algae is harvested, dried and pressed into balls. It is then ground, sieved and washed to remove sand and other impurities. The seaweed is soaked in an alkali solution such as potassium hydroxide and heated to remove the carrageenan from the seaweed. The cellulose is then mechanically removed by filtration and centrifugation. The remaining water is evaporated, and the recovered carrageenan is then grounded to final specifications.
 
Carrageenan can also be made at home using a process similar to commercial production. This technique has been known since 600 BC, although commercial production of carrageenan didn't begin until the 1930s.
 
Carrageenan is divided into three categories depending on sulfate content. The disaccharides in kappa-carrageenan have one part sulfate, the disaccharides in iota-carrageenan have two part sulfate, and the disaccharides in lambda-carrageenan have three part sulfate. Carrageenan has antioxidant activity and other properties that make it useful for dietary supplements. Lambda-carrageenan is the most commonly used form in these supplements because it doesn't gel and is soluble in cold water.

Uses of carrageenan

Carrageenan's antioxidant activity is one of the most common reasons for its use as a dietary supplement. It also supports the digestive system and is often used to make capsules.

Signs You May Need Carrageenan

A high total cholesterol level and poor kidney function are one of the most significant signs that you may benefit from carrageenan supplements. Physical weakness, poor appetite, and insomnia. Intestinal disorders characterized by inflammation are common symptoms of kidney failure, which may also mean that carrageenan can benefit you. Carrageenan supplements are helpful in recovering from skin grafts and a need to manage your weight.