Seaweed Could Help Reduce Fat Absorption, Says Study

Adding seaweed to bread, biscuits and yogurt can reduce the amount of fat absorbed by the body by up to 75%, a new study finds.

The natural fibre alginate found in sea kelp, which is used in small quantities in food as a thickener, helps reduce the absorption, researchers at Newcastle University said.

“Alginates not only have great potential for weight management – adding them to food also has the added advantage of boosting overall fibre content,” said team leader Dr Iain Brownlee.

The findings are being presented at the American Chemical Society meeting in San Francisco.

The report goes on to suggest seaweed may be more effective than current weight loss products sold over the counter.