J Nutr Health.  2014 Feb;47(1):23-32.

The effect of Sargassum confusum on reduction of body fat in obese women

• Min KS
• Han D
• Kwon SO
• Yeo KM
• Kim BN
• Ly SY

Abstract

PURPOSE
This study was conducted in order to investigate the effect of Sargassum confusum extracts on the reduction of body fat for eight weeks in overweight women (BMI > or = 23 kg/m2).
METHODS
Subjects were classified by double-blind randomized trial as the control group (C group, n = 14) and the Sargassum confusum extract supplementation group (SC group, n = 16), which consumed 12 tablets per day. Questionnaires related to their health status were assessed twice (week 0 and week 8). Their dietary intake status was evaluated by 24-recall method and body compositions were measured using a bioelectrical impedance analyzer. In addition, we assessed the anti-obesity effect and the occurrence possibility of health risk factors during the supplementation periods by hematological and clinical analysis of blood.
RESULTS
Waist circumference and body fat (%) were significantly decreased in the SC group. Serum leptin level was also significantly decreased in the SC group. Defecation frequency was significantly increased in the SC group. The above results indicate that Sargassum confusum extract supplementation improves overweight on visceral fat and blood leptin level by increasing bowel movement. These results imply a decrease of health risk factors in overweight women. Seven subjects withdrew from the study due to adverse events; however, no differences regarding adverse events were observed between the control and treatment group.
CONCLUSION
Therefore, Sargassum confusum extract is a plausible effective agent for body fat reduction in humans.

Keyword

Sargassum confusum; reduction of body fat ratio; overweight women

MeSH Terms

Adipose Tissue*
Body Composition
Defecation
Electric Impedance
Female
Humans
Intra-Abdominal Fat
Leptin
Overweight
Surveys and Questionnaires
Risk Factors
Sargassum*
Tablets
Waist Circumference
Leptin
Tablets

Reference

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