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What Are the Benefits of Fucoidan?

This article describes fucoidan--which is found in seaweed and has been receiving a great deal of attention and study in alternative health. What are some of its purported health benefits?

  1. What Is Fucoidan?

    • Fucoidan is a complex carbohydrate (or sulfated polysaccharide) that comes from brown seaweed. It is the primary active phytochemical in the limu Mmui sea plant, which hails from the coast of the Pacific island Tonga. The health benefits of fucoidan have been explored in numerous scientific studies, and continue to be researched extensively.

    Nutritional Value

    • Fucoidan's nutritional value stems largely from its native environment--the sea. Fucoidan is rich in calcium, iodine, zinc, iron, selenium and vitamin A. These nutrients are essential for proper functioning of the immune, circulatory and neurologic systems.

    Other Health Benefits

    • Studies have shown that fucoidan possess anti-cancer and anti-clotting effects. It is helpful for joint pain, liver support, cardiac function and digestion. It has also been claimed to enhance skin tissue, aid in maintaining healthy cholesterol levels, and improve cellular protection and regeneration.

      (Please note that these statements have not been evaluated by the US Food and Drug Administration.)

    Additional Information

    • As more clinical trials of fucoidan are performed, and its beneficial effects made widely known, fucoidan may become a viable alternative to pharmacologic treatment for heart disease and other ailments.

    Dietary Consideration

    • If you'd like to incorporate fucoidan into your diet, be sure that the product has been manufactured to the highest standards (100% water-extraction process, no use of solvents).

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