Investigating the effect of seaweed bioactive compounds on gut microbiota composition and dysbiosis: a systematic review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.31989/afbc.v2i4.1596Abstract
The gut microbiota is a complex ecosystem that maintains a symbiotic relationship with the host metabolism, immune development, and intestinal balance. Diet and environmental factors influence the gut microbiota composition, as a disruption in microbiota due to a range of possible diseases may result in dysbiosis. Bioactive compounds, including polysaccharides, polyphenols, and fucoidan, affect gut microbial composition and help balance microflora. Seaweed varieties contain diverse bioactive components with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immunomodulatory, and anticancer properties, which makes them valuable for human health. Despite their benefits, their impact on the gut microbiome remains unclear. This research systematically reviewed literature from Google Scholar and Web of Science (2014-2024) to assess seaweed’s bioactive compounds' effect on the gut microbiome.
This research yielded seven relevant studies. The studies investigated the effect of fucoidan on Helicobacter pylori eradication, gut microbiota, and macrophages. Okinawa mozuku (Cladosiphon okamuranus) was used to evaluate bowel movements, the effect of seaweed polysaccharide on fecal weight and microbial imbalance, and the stability of seaweed phlorotannin in the GIT. The data indicate that seaweed components may increase beneficial bacteria such as Faecalibacterium prausnitzii to promote microbial diversity, while reducing pathogenic taxa. Fucoidan was beneficial in mitigating the adverse effects of antibiotic-induced dysbiosis during Helicobacter pylori eradication therapy, while Okinawa mozuku improved bowel movement and stool consistency. Fucus vesiculosus phlorotannin has also been linked to antioxidant activity. These findings highlight that bioactive seaweed components are potential therapeutic agents for enhancing and sustaining beneficial bacteria in the microbiome. This research supports the application of seaweed compounds in dietary and clinical interventions for gut health.
Keywords: Seaweed; Bioactive compounds; Gut microbiota; Dysbiosis; Fucoidan.
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