Randomized controlled pilot study: effect of carrageenan emulsifier on inflammation and gastrointestinal symptoms in quiescent ulcerative colitis

Background: Animal models have provided some evidence of the pro-inflammatory effects of the commonly used emulsifier carrageenan. However, the effects of food-grade carrageenan among people with ulcerative colitis (UC) are largely unknown. Methods: A randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over study comparing high molecular carrageenan and oat- based beta-glucan preparation (placebo) among patients (n = 7) with quiescent UC was performed. Primary endpoint was Simple Clinical Colitis Activity...