Agar and Weight Loss: Can This Seaweed-Derived Polysaccharide Help Control Appetite?
What Is Agar?
Agar is a carbohydrate (more specifically, a polysaccharide) derived from many species of red algae that is also commonly used in cookery as a gelling agent.
What Exactly Is Agar Used For?
Agar is a hydrophilic material that, once inside the digestive tract, produces a mass that promotes intestinal peristalsis. For this reason, it is frequently recommended as a laxative in cases of constipation.
Agar also promotes the feeling of satiety, so agar-based products may be beneficial for weight loss. Finally, agar has been offered as a treatment for diabetes (in which case it can help with weight loss and lower BMI) and newborn jaundice.
The evidence supporting these applications of agar is encouraging. At the time, however, significant evidence of its usefulness has not been provided.
Warnings and Possible Contraindications
Taking agar-based goods may interfere with oral medicine treatments; the gel created by agar in the digestive system may limit absorption, increasing the likelihood that the therapies may be ineffective. As a result, it is best to consume agar at least an hour before any medication.
Agar is considered safe for most adults when mixed with at least 240 ml of water (approximately a glass); otherwise, it may clog the esophagus or other portions of the digestive system. However, it is not impossible that ingesting agar will raise cholesterol levels. It may also cause chest pain, vomiting, or difficulty eating or breathing; in these circumstances, you should visit your doctor.
Consumption of agar-based goods may be contraindicated in the presence of intestinal obstructions (particularly if not accompanied by enough fluid intake) and swallowing issues. Furthermore, it has been proposed that agar may raise the risk of colon cancer. If in doubt, ask your doctor.
