Mechanisms behind the anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects of seaweeds or macroalgae and their bioactive compounds

Abstract

Obesity and diabetes have become global health crises, with rising prevalence and a strong association with various chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain cancers. These conditions contribute to significant morbidity and mortality, highlighting the urgent need for effective therapeutic interventions. Marine products, including fish oils and marine plants, have been increasingly recognized for their potential in mitigating these diseases. Among these, seaweed stands out due to their diverse bioactive compounds and promising therapeutic effects. This comprehensive review explores the mechanisms of action through which seaweeds, and their compounds exert anti-diabetic and anti-obesity effects, including the regulation of adipogenesis, appetite control, modulation of gut microbiota, enhancement of insulin sensitivity, and reduction of inflammation, oxidative stress, and β-cell dysfunction. Despite the promising potential, challenges such as variability of bioactive compounds and low bioavailability remain there. Advances in bioactive delivery systems and along with large-scale clinical trials, are crucial for optimizing the therapeutic use of bioactive compounds from seaweeds. Future research should also explore synergistic strategies combining seaweed compounds with other bioactive substances. Overall, seaweed offers a promising foundation for developing functional foods and nutraceuticals aimed at promoting long-term metabolic health, providing an innovative approach to addressing obesity and diabetes.

Keywords: Diabetes; Gut microbiota; Inflammation; Insulin sensitivity; Lipogenesis; Macroalgae; Obesity; Oxidative stress; Seaweeds; Bioactive compounds

Core Tip: Obesity and diabetes are global health challenges with increasing prevalence and strong associations with cardiovascular disease, stroke, and certain cancers. While pharmacological treatments exist, the demand for natural, bioactive-based interventions remains critical. Seaweeds have garnered significant attention due to their diverse bioactive compounds with demonstrated anti-obesity and anti-diabetic properties. This review elucidates the mechanisms by which seaweed regulates metabolic disorders. Key actions include modulation of adipogenesis, appetite suppression, regulation of gut microbiota, enhancement of insulin sensitivity, and attenuation of inflammation and oxidative stress. Together, these mechanisms provide insights into how seaweed specifically targets obesity and diabetes.