You may notice that our formulas are carrageenan-free, unlike other toothpaste brands. But what is carrageenan anyway and why should you avoid it? We’ve got the answers below.

What is carrageenan?

Derived from red algae or seaweeds, carrageenan is processed through an alkaline procedure and used as a “natural” food-grade ingredient. When processed with acid instead of alkali, carrageenan is reduced to a low molecular weight, and is called degraded carrageenan or poligeenan.

How is carrageenan used? 

Even though carrageenan adds no nutritional value or flavor, the food and personal care products industries use it in a wide variety of applications. It serves as a substitute for fat and is used as thickener of nonfat or low-fat foods or dairy replacements. Carrageenan also functions as a stabilizer for beverages that are more likely to separate. 

Similarly, to food or drinks, carrageenan is used in toothpaste to help bind the ingredients and thickens the formula to create that paste-like consistency. 

Why is carrageenan harmful?

According to an updated report on carrageenan by The Cornucopia Institute, the unique chemical structure of carrageenan triggers an innate immune response in the body, recognizing it as a dangerous invader. This immune response leads to inflammation.

And for those who consume carrageenan regularly, this inflammation can cause serious health concerns such as inflammatory bowel disease, rheumatoid arthritis and it’s also connected to cancer.

Even though you do not consume toothpaste, the ingredients are still absorbed into your body through the soft tissues of the mouth. Many individuals who have experienced gastrointestinal symptoms such as bloating, have noticed that eliminating carrageenan from their lifestyle has improved their overall health.

Dr. Brite Carrageenan-Free Toothpaste

We don't believe in putting you and your family's health at risk, which is why we've chosen not to include carrageenan in our adult or kid's toothpaste formulas. Instead we use an organic arrowroot powder as a natural thickener. The substance is easy to digest, gluten-free and helps relieve mouth sore pain thanks to it's anti-inflammatory properties. 

FAQs

1. How does carrageenan cause inflammation?

Degraded carrageenan, or poligeenan, is formed when acid is used to treat carrageenan. This chemical has substantial health risks. Poligeenan is a chemical that causes inflammation. Anti-inflammatory medications are often tested in the laboratory using this method. Poligeenan is not allowed to be used as a food additive by the FDA.

2. Is carrageenan in toothpaste harmful?

New research from The Cornucopia Institute claims that carrageenan's unique molecular structure causes the body to recognize it as an invading threat. Inflammation occurs as a result of this immunological reaction.

Additionally, for people who routinely ingest carrageenan, this inflammation can lead to major health issues like IBD, rheumatoid arthritis, and cancer in those who are susceptible.

Toothpaste still enters your body through soft tissues in your mouth, even if you don't eat it. Many people who suffer from gastrointestinal problems like bloating have found that reducing carrageenan from their diet has helped their overall health.

3. What is so bad about carrageenan?

Carrageenan, according to research, can cause inflammation and, as a result, a host of chronic ailments, including diabetes, digestive disorders, cardiovascular diseases, neurological disorders, and even cancer. No nutritional benefit is gained by eliminating carrageenan from your diet.

4. What toothpaste has no carrageenan?

Toothpaste without Carrageenan by DR. BRITE - There are no carrageenan ingredients in our adult or children's toothpastes since we do not believe in endangering the health of our customers and their families. Our thickener of choice is organic arrowroot powder, which is sourced from sustainable sources. The anti-inflammatory characteristics of this chemical aid to alleviate mouth sore pain while also being easily digestible and gluten-free.

5. Is carrageenan safe for skin?

Carrageenan is a food additive that has been used in the production of ice cream and other frozen desserts since the 1950s. It can be found in some toothpastes, cosmetics, and shampoos. Carrageenan has been investigated for its potential to cause cancer in animals but there is no evidence that it causes cancer when consumed by humans. There are also no reports of carrageenan allergies or sensitivities.

6. Can you be allergic to carrageenan?

Anaphylaxis during a barium enema has a previously unreported cause: carrageenan. It is an allergen that is widely dispersed in everyday meals and may be responsible for some symptoms linked to milk or infant formula.

7. What foods contain carrageenan?

1. Chocolate milk 
2. Almond milk
3. Cottage cheese
4. Cream
5. Ice cream.
6. Dairy substitutes including vegan cheeses and sugar-free sweets
7. Coconut milk

8. What are the health benefits of carrageenan?

Carrageenan is used to treat intestinal issues, tuberculosis, bronchitis, and coughs. The form that the French utilize has been altered by the addition of acid and high heat. This version is used as a bulk laxative and to treat peptic ulcers. For pain around the anus, some people apply carrageenan straight to the skin.

9. Is carrageenan hard to digest?

Carrageenan, which is generated from red seaweeds like Irish moss, is an indigestible polysaccharide, or a carbohydrate chain that your digestive system cannot break down. Keep in mind that fiber is also an indigestible carbohydrate, which is one of the reasons why it is so great for us.