Carrageenan – Another Food Additive that Can Make You Sick

Many of us try to eat a healthy diet; one that is “natural.” Some of us strive to eat foods that are truly “organic.” However, even something that is considered “organic” can cause you to feel ill. Carrageenan which comes from red seaweed, also known by the names of Chondrus crispus and Irish Moss, is considered an organic food additive, but has been scientifically proven to cause inflammation in the human body as well as cause mild to severe gastrointestinal symptoms in some individuals.  There has also been research linking consumption of carrageenan to the development of Cancer. 

Sunset at the El Segundo Beach by Carole Jakucs - Image subject to copyright.

Carrageenan is used in a variety of food and beverage products such as cottage cheese, ice cream, yogurt, baby formula, beverages and so much more. Currently, the USDA (United States Department of Agriculture) allows it to be used in products labeled “organic."

Read you labels: If you don't want to consume carrageenan (even if you are buying an organic product) make sure you read your labels. It’s especially important to check your labels for carrageenan, if you are one who suffers from a sensitive gastrointestinal system, has a known GI disease or disorder and/or experiences GI symptoms (such as but not limited to, bloating and pain).

If you are experiencing any pain, or concerning symptoms, make sure to contact your doctor.   You may also want to check your diet for any sources of hidden carrageenan.

Cracking the Code on Colorectal Cancer

Are you at risk for Colorectal Cancer? Have you been screened for it? Do you know the symptoms? Are there things you can do to help lower your risk for developing it? Too many people delay getting screened for various reasons; experience symptoms that bring them to their doctors and are subsequently diagnosed with a late stage Colorectal Cancer that has metastasized (spread) to other parts of their body.  Once it has spread, it is more difficult to cure.

Colorectal Cancer is Cancer of the Colon (large intestine) and, or, Rectum (last/end portion of the colon). Getting “Routine Screening” (before any symptoms appear) as recommended by your doctor; increases your chances of early detection of this disease (if you have it) and increases your chances of survival by catching it early, before it has spread to other areas such as lymph nodes and organs.

Everyone is at risk for developing Colorectal Cancer; however, some people have a higher risk than others. Exercising and eating a healthy diet that is high in fiber and low in all of the following such as fat, red meat, processed meats and alcohol; along with not smoking may help to reduce your risk.

Take a few minutes to learn about the Symptoms and Risk Factors of Colorectal Cancer. See these links for more information:

http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/treatment/colon/Patient

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmedhealth/PMH0001308/

http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/colorectal/basic_info/screening/

http://www.webmd.com/colorectal-cancer/default.htm