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The food additive carrageenan (E 407) can be responsible for the development of chronic inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, and increased blood sugar levels in animals. However, it is not yet known what effect carrageenan has on the risk of developing type 2 diabetes in humans. This question has now been investigated in a clinical study. In the study, young, healthy men with a BMI of less than 30 kg/m² (average BMI 24.5 kg/m²) were given either carrageenan in addition to their normal diet, in an amount roughly equivalent to two to three times the daily dose consumed in the U.S.,...

Ivermectin may now be used in South Africa for the treatment of Covid-19. That is the upshot of a settlement agreement, made an order of court, in four applications against the SA Health Products Regulatory Authority (Sahpra). In terms of the agreement, the anti-parasitic drug can now be “compounded” and prescribed legally for the treatment of specific patients. Doctors no longer have to use the “compassionate use” programme, initiated by Sahpra earlier this year, in which doctors had to apply through the authority’s Section 2 “compassionate use” programme (for unregistered medicines) for permission to use the drug to prevent and...

Seaweed. Red algae. The ocean’s harvest also known as carrageenan. Some folks, however, would rather not see the seaweed come ashore. We use carrageenan for coughs, bronchitis, tuberculosis, and intestinal problems. It’s also used as a thickening agent, for weight loss, and for pain reduction and inflammation. It’s in toothpaste and mouthwash. And you’ll find it in dairy products, like milk and ice cream. Heck, it’s even in the food you feed your furry friends, your pets. So, what’s all the fuss? On one side you have the food police saying carrageenan may cause severe stomach and intestinal problem. On...