The effect of seaweed derived polyphenols on inflammation and oxidative stress in vivo - The SWAFAX study

Some studies suggest that the potential antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits of seaweed-derived polyphenols may yield highly bioactive components with commercial potential for food and pharma applications(4). The aim of this randomised, double-blind, placebo controlled, crossover design study was to investigate the biological activity of a food grade seaweed polyphenol extract (CEVA, France) in terms of reducing oxidative damage to DNA, modulation of inflammatory responses and reduction on chronic, low level inflammation in vivo. Blood and urine samples were analysed for an array of outcome measures including DNA damage to lymphocytes (Comet assay), intracellular cytokine activity (flow cytometer) (in preparation), C-reactive protein (CRP), triglycerides and isoprostane levels.