A compound found in brown seaweed that is widely used in Asian soups and salads has been demonstrated in animal trials to promote weight loss by reducing the accumulation of fat. The compound, called fucoxanthin, is a brownish pigment that gives brown seaweed its characteristic color and also conducts photosynthesis (the conversion of light to energy).

According to the authors of the study presented during the 232nd National Meeting of the American Chemical Society, the fucoxanthin from Undaria pinnatifida, a kelp also known in Japan as wakame, seems to reduce fat in two ways:

Fucoxanthin appears to stimulate a protein called UCP1, that causes fat oxidation and conversion of energy to heat. The pigment compound also appear to stimulate the liver to produce DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid, which subsequently reduce 'bad cholesterol' (low density lipoprotein), which is known to contribute to obesity and heart disease.

The authors are optimistic on the potentials of fucoxanthin as a dietary supplement to fight obesity.

Read more from the American Chemical Society News Service.