Sodium alginate, a fiber extracted from seaweed that forms a gel-like goo when ingested, appears to be an effective appetite suppressant. Subjects ingesting the seaweed fiber consumed about 135 calories, or about 7% less, than the control group.

Significant reductions were noted for carbohydrate, sugar, fat, saturated fat and protein intakes. No negative effects were noted.

PMID: 18655817