Fucus: benefits, dosage, contraindications
Scientific name(s)
Fucus vesiculosus
Family or group:
Aquatic organisms
Active ingredients:
Iodine
Calcium
Indications
Scoring methodology
EFSA approval.
Metabolic syndrome ✪✪✪✪✪
Fucus vesiculosus, used in combination with other ingredients, shows potential in the management of metabolic syndrome. An observational study reported significant improvements such as reductions in weight, waist circumference, fasting glucose, and lipid and blood pressure markers. These results come from a product combining Fucus and Ascophyllum nodosum with chromium picolinate.
Posologie
Orally
500 mg
InSea2®
Synergies
Effectiveness of Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus on Metabolic Syndrome Components: A Real-World, Observational Study
Ascophyllum nodosum and Fucus vesiculosus on glycemic status and on endothelial damage markers in dysglycemic patients
Obesity ✪✪✪✪✪
Clinical studies on the effectiveness of Fucus vesiculosus for weight loss in overweight or obese adults show mixed results. Although Fucus is used in combination formulations, no significant reduction in weight, body mass index, body fat, or markers of glycemic control was observed in treated groups compared with placebos. nnThese results suggest that, although Fucus is promoted for its weight-management properties, its effectiveness is unproven.nn
Posologie
Oral administration
500 mg
standardized extract
Iodine deficiency ✪✪✪✪✪
Although Fucus vesiculosus is a rich source of iodine, reliable evidence is lacking regarding its specific clinical effects for treating iodine deficiency. Historically used to correct deficiencies and prevent goiter, current research on its effectiveness alone is insufficient.nnAccording to the French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (ANSES), the iodine content of fucus (Fucus vesiculosus) varies considerably depending on the environment in which it grows, the season, the age of the plant and the part used. However, on average, a 5 g portion of dried fucus contains about 450 micrograms of iodine.nn
Posologie
Oral administration
500 mg
standardized extract
Properties
Metabolic
Fucus vesiculosus is rich in fucoxanthin, which can stimulate thermogenesis in adipose tissue, increasing heat production and fat burning. This action may be useful for promoting weight loss and managing obesity.
Usages associés
Antiplatelet agents/Anticoagulant
Fucoidan, a sulfated polysaccharide from Fucus vesiculosus, shows anticoagulant effects in laboratory studies, acting on platelet adhesion and promoting fibrinolysis. However, its intestinal absorption is low, limiting its anticoagulant activity in humans.
Hypoglycemic
Preliminary research indicates that Fucus vesiculosus extract may reduce postprandial insulin by inhibiting key digestive enzymes, without significantly affecting glucose levels, suggesting potential to help manage insulin without directly impacting blood sugar levels.
Usages associés
Dermatological effect
Topically applied Fucus vesiculosus can reduce skin thickness and signs of aging by increasing the expression of cell integrins. It also stimulates fibroblasts via transforming growth factor, thus aiding wound healing.
Safe dosage
Adult :
Studies indicate a dosage of 500 mg to 2000 mg.nnOral consumption of Fucus vesiculosus can be dangerous due to its iodine and heavy metal content. Fucus vesiculosus contains up to 0.05% iodine, i.e., 226 mcg per gram of dry weight. Ingesting more than 150 mcg of iodine per day can cause hyperthyroidism or worsen existing hyperthyroidism. Furthermore, Fucus vesiculosus may contain heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and lead, and may cause heavy metal nephropathy. nn
Precautions
Pregnant: avoid
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid consuming Fucus vesiculosus due to its heavy metal content.nn
Breastfeeding: avoid
Pregnant and breastfeeding women should avoid consuming Fucus vesiculosus due to its heavy metal content.nn
Contraindications
Thyroid disorders: contraindicated
Fucus vesiculosus contains significant amounts of iodine, and excess iodine can worsen thyroid disorders. Prolonged use or excessive amounts of iodides can cause or exacerbate thyroid gland hyperplasia, thyroid adenoma, goiter, and hypothyroidism. nn
