A path- breaking study by British scientists reveals that a fiber indigenous to sea weeds is very efficient in assisting weight loss. This fiber stops the body from absorbing fat.

The team of scientists from Newcastle analyzed the efficacy of 60 different types of fiber in curtailing fat absorption.

Tests affirmed that alginate; a sea kelp fiber proves most effective in preventing the body from absorbing fat in food. Alginate is already employed in minute measures by manufacturers in food as a thickening and stabilizing agent.

The study revealed that alginate reduces fat absorption by 75%.

The results of this study will be revealed at the American Chemical Society conference today.

The percentage of decrease in fat absorption out beats many weight loss supplements. The effectiveness of alginate can be compared to the over- the-counter pill Alli.

The difference between the two is that while Alli comes in the form of a pill, alginate will be added in powder form to foods.

The alginate powder is colorless and flavorless. It has been noted that adding to bread enhances the taste of the bread.

Researcher Dr Iain Brownlee said, “I would agree that people should eat more healthily and exercise more but they aren't doing that and there is maybe a need for a slightly different approach”.