Medical Supporter — Information Notice
This article is a summary of international medical information and is not medical advice; it cannot replace the diagnosis or treatment plan of your attending physician. The medical technologies, drug information and clinical data presented here are compiled from public literature and official statements of Japanese medical institutions; the applicability and outcome of any therapy vary with each patient and must be assessed individually by a qualified physician.
Polysaccharides and Fucoidan: Where Immune Research Stands
- Reading time: 3 minutes
"Polysaccharide" can sound like something special, but it simply means a complex carbohydrate made of many sugar units joined together. Dietary fiber in vegetables and grains, beta-glucans in mushrooms and fucoidan in brown seaweed are all polysaccharides. This article explains what research has looked at and how to think about these foods if you or a family member is in treatment.
The short answer
- Polysaccharides, including fucoidan, are food components. They are not a treatment for cancer.
- Many of the reported observations come from cell and animal experiments.
- Human studies are few and small, and they are not enough to show that these supplements help with treatment.
- If you are in treatment, talk with your doctor or a dietitian before adding any supplement.
What have studies observed?
Cell and animal experiments
- Immune cells: some studies looked at changes in the activity of NK cells, T cells and dendritic cells.
- Cell death: some laboratory studies observed programmed cell death (apoptosis) in certain tumor cell lines.
- Blood vessel formation: some animal studies looked at signals involved in new blood vessel growth.
- Mucous membranes: some studies have looked at the stomach lining and other mucous membranes.
Human studies
- A small number of studies have measured immune-related markers in healthy volunteers or looked at people receiving treatment. The studies were small, so they do not establish any benefit.
Nutrition during treatment
During chemotherapy or radiation therapy, many people experience fatigue, poor appetite or mouth sores. Getting enough energy and protein is usually the first priority. A doctor or dietitian can suggest foods and, if needed, nutritional products that suit your situation. Supplements are not a replacement for meals or for treatment.
Things to keep in mind
- A health food is not a medicine.
- Possible interactions. Fucoidan may affect blood clotting. Tell your doctor if you take blood thinners or have surgery planned.
- Iodine and the thyroid. Seaweed-derived products may contain iodine. If you have a thyroid condition, ask your doctor first.
- Products vary. Ingredients and amounts differ between products. Check the label and any testing information.
Questions you can ask your doctor
- Is it all right to take a polysaccharide supplement during my current treatment?
- Could it affect my medicines or blood test results?
- What should I eat to keep my strength up right now?
This article is general information and is not medical advice. If you have questions about your treatment, feel free to contact us.
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