In this episode of Shift with CJ, we uncover the shocking truth about carrageenan, a common food additive found in plant-based milks, ice creams, deli meats, and processed foods. While it's marketed as a natural ingredient derived from red seaweed, studies link carrageenan to insulin resistance, gut inflammation, and long-term health risks like inflammatory bowel disease and even cancer.

CJ dives deep into how carrageenan harms your body, why it’s so widespread, and how you can eliminate it from your diet to improve your health.

Key Takeaways

1. Carrageenan is Hiding in Everyday Foods
   • It’s a thickener and stabilizer used in dairy-free alternatives, processed meats, and even supplements.
   • Look for E407 or carrageenan on ingredient labels and avoid these products.
2. It Can Trigger Insulin Resistance
   • Studies show carrageenan interferes with insulin signaling, making it harder for your body to regulate blood sugar.
   • This can lead to fatigue, cravings, weight gain, and type 2 diabetes.
3. It Damages Gut Health
   • Carrageenan increases intestinal permeability (leaky gut), allowing toxins and bacteria to enter your bloodstream.
   • This leads to chronic inflammation, digestive issues, and even autoimmune diseases.
   • It also kills beneficial gut bacteria, weakening digestion and immunity.
4. Symptoms of Carrageenan Sensitivity
   • Many people unknowingly experience bloating, gas, diarrhea, constipation, joint pain, and brain fog due to carrageenan.
   • If you eat processed foods and have these symptoms, try eliminating carrageenan for a few weeks.
5. Long-Term Health Risks
   • Animal studies show carrageenan is linked to inflammatory bowel disease, ulcers, and colon cancer.
   • High doses have been shown to cause severe gut damage and tumor growth in lab studies.

5 Things You Can Start Doing Today to Improve Your Health

1. Read Ingredient Labels – Avoid foods containing carrageenan (E407), especially dairy-free milks, processed meats, and supplements.
2. Make Your Own Food Alternatives – Instead of store-bought nut milks and yogurts, try homemade versions with clean ingredients.
3. Eat Whole, Unprocessed Foods – The fewer processed foods in your diet, the lower your carrageenan exposure.
4. Support Gut Healing – Include bone broth, fermented foods, and healthy fats to repair your gut lining and rebuild beneficial bacteria.
5. Optimize Energy for Cellular Repair – Improve your mitochondria function with nutrient-rich foods, quality sleep, and daily movement.

Start today by checking labels, eating clean, and seeing how your body feels. 🎧 Stay curious, stay strong, and keep hacking your health!