Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 55

Impact of seaweed food additive carrageenan on gut health

Official title: Investigating the Impact of the Seaweed Derived Food Additive, Carrageenan, on the Human Gut Microbiome

Run by University of Reading · NCT06738329 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study tests whether a seaweed food additive called carrageenan can improve gut health in healthy people by changing their gut bacteria and making them feel better.

More Gut Microbiome trials

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 55 Years
SexAll
Enrollment99 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of Reading
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Reading, Reading)
StatusRecruiting
StartedOctober 1, 2024
Main results expectedMay 30, 2025
Study endsMay 30, 2025
Registry record updatedDecember 17, 2024
Trial IDNCT06738329 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates for this study are healthy individuals without any gut disorders or recent antibiotic use.

Probably not a fit

Patients with gut disorders such as IBS or IBD, or those with food allergies or intolerances, may not benefit from this study.

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of carrageenan, a seaweed-derived food additive, on the human gut microbiome. Healthy participants will consume either a gummy sweet containing carrageenan and inulin or a placebo for four weeks, with stool and urine samples collected at three intervals. The study aims to determine if these products can positively alter gut bacterial composition and improve gastrointestinal comfort. The design is randomized and double-blind to ensure unbiased results.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to healthier snack options that promote gut health.

How similar studies have gone: While there have been lab-based experiments showing potential benefits, this approach in humans is relatively novel and untested.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy individuals

Exclusion Criteria:

* Prescribed antibiotics in the last 3 months
* Individuals with any gut disorders such as IBS or IBD
* individuals with any food allergies or intolerances
* Individuals who regularly consume pre or probiotics

Where it's running

  • University of Reading
    Reading, Reading, United Kingdom
    Recruiting

Similar studies

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How to take part

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.