Sodium Alginate Side Effect

Mar 29, 2011 | By Susan Ferrandino

Sodium alginate is made from brown algae. Once extracted, it is a purified carbohydrate and presents as a thick substance. It is used as a food additive in such foods as ice cream and soy sauce to enhance flavor and taste and as a thickener in tapioca and gravy. Many foods contain sodium alginate, especially processed foods. You can find it listed on nutrition facts labels. People on sodium-restricted diets need to be aware of this ingredient, as it has the potential to cause unwanted side effects.

Increased Blood Pressure

In some people, intake of sodium, including sodium alginate, may increase blood pressure. This is because salt attracts water. In the body, that means excess fluid is present with more sodium intake. In turn, your heart must work harder to circulate the added fluid. This can lead to increased blood pressure. The American Heart Association recommends taking less than 1,500mg of sodium each day.

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Poor Bone Health

Calcium is a needed mineral for bone quality and strength. Calcium is excreted from the body with sodium. This means with normal use of sodium alginate and at increased levels, sodium is excreted along with calcium. This could cause problems with your bones, especially if sodium levels exceed the recommended daily values. Over time, this will deplete calcium levels needed for bones, leading to a calcium deficiency, which could put you at an increased risk for bone fractures and osteoporosis.

Congestive Heart Failure

Congestive heart failure is a condition in which fluid accumulates in the chest cavity, especially around the heart and lungs. This happens because there is excess fluid in the body, and the heart is unable to pump properly. With the intake of sodium alginate, excess fluid in the body could occur, leading to congestive heart failure. Sodium alginate could exacerbate symptoms in those who have congestive heart failure. Symptoms include shortness of breath, a wet cough and possible cardiac complications. Consult your health care provider before consuming foods with sodium alginate.

References

Article reviewed by Christine Brncik Last updated on: Mar 29, 2011