Biological Functions and Health Promoting Effects of Brown Seaweeds in Swine Nutrition

Abstract

Marine macroalgae could be an important supplement in animal nutrition for their health-promoting effects. In recent years, the search of natural substances as substitutes of prophylactic antibiotics increased. Seaweeds, in particular brown algae, possess distinctive compounds such as laminarin and fucoidan, studied for their biologically active functions. Recent studies have shown that these bioactive components can positively affect the health and wellbeing improving intestinal mucosa metabolism, and have anti-microbial, anti-inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects. The present work is focuses on the health-promoting activities of seaweeds, in particular brown algae, as swine dietary supplement.