Fucoxanthin

One human trial (Abidov 2010) showed meaningful fat loss, but it has not been independently replicated. Preclinical thermogenesis data are interesting.

A rough internal score reflecting quantity, quality, and consistency of human evidence. Not a clinical recommendation.

The Abidov 2010 trial in obese women showed ~5 kg fat loss vs placebo over 16 weeks with a fucoxanthin/pomegranate oil combination. UCP1 activation in white adipose tissue is demonstrated in rodents. No independent replication of the human study.

• UCP1 activation in white adipose tissue (preclinical)
• Thermogenic carotenoid unique to brown seaweed
• One human trial showed body-fat reduction

2.4–8 mg/day in the Abidov study (as part of a combination product). Standalone dosing is not well-established.

• GI discomfort
• Potential thyroid effects from iodine

Iodine from seaweed source. Unreplicated human study means effect size is uncertain.

The single positive human trial used a combination product, making it impossible to attribute effects to fucoxanthin alone.

• Weight loss30