Samcheok 'Freshwater Seaweed' Proven to Improve Menopausal Bone, Muscle Health, and Immunity

Joint Study by Samcheok City and Sungkyunkwan University Confirms Menopausal Symptom Improvement and Safety
Significant Results: Bone Density Restoration, Suppression of Weight Gain, and Immune Balance Improvement
Laying the Foundation for Mass Production Through Genome and Habitat Analysis in 2026

It has been scientifically proven that 'freshwater seaweed,' a specialty resource of Samcheok City in Gangwon Province, has remarkable effects on improving menopausal health.

Samcheok Freshwater Seaweed. Provided by Samcheok City

The Samcheok City Fisheries Resource Center announced on the 25th that it held the final report meeting for the 'Study on the Health Promotion and Menopausal Improvement Effects of Freshwater Seaweed Extract,' conducted jointly with Professor Cho Jaeyeol's team from Sungkyunkwan University on the 24th. The study confirmed that freshwater seaweed is effective in alleviating menopausal symptoms, improving bone and muscle health, and boosting immunity.

The research team conducted efficacy evaluations throughout 2025 using an experimental rat model in which menopause was induced by ovary removal. As a result, the group that consumed freshwater seaweed extract showed a normalization of the abnormally increased levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH), which are representative symptoms of hormonal imbalance in menopause. In addition, one of the major concerns for menopausal women-rapid weight gain-was also significantly suppressed.

In particular, clear improvements were observed in bone and muscle health, which are critical to quality of life in old age. According to 3D precision imaging (Micro-CT) analysis, freshwater seaweed extract restored bone mineral density that had decreased due to ovary removal and inhibited muscle fiber aging (fibrosis), thereby preventing a decline in muscle function.

The results in immunology were also notable. The extract helped maintain immune homeostasis by regulating the imbalance of immune cells that occurs during menopause back to normal levels. The research team further identified the detailed mechanism by which these effects are exerted, specifically through the 'AP-1 signaling pathway' in the body.

Long-term safety was also verified. Observations of liver function indicators (AST, ALT) during the experimental period showed no toxic reactions, confirming that freshwater seaweed is safe as an edible material.

Freshwater Seaweed Research Final Report Meeting. Provided by Samcheok City

Based on these research findings, Samcheok City has completed two patent applications: one for a 'composition for the prevention of female menopausal disorders containing freshwater seaweed extract' and another for a 'composition for improving bone health.' The city also plans to file a patent related to muscle function improvement. The related research paper is expected to be completed by January 2026.

Meanwhile, starting in 2026, Samcheok City will embark on follow-up research for the industrialization and conservation of freshwater seaweed. The city plans to establish the uniqueness of Samcheok freshwater seaweed by conducting 'genome analysis' to clarify genetic differences from other regional species, such as Japanese freshwater seaweed, and to lay the foundation for mass production (aquaculture) by carrying out 'precise habitat environment analysis' for stable raw material supply.

A city official stated, "This research is significant in that it confirms the potential of Samcheok freshwater seaweed to be used as a high value-added healthcare material, beyond being a simple food ingredient," adding, "We will continue systematic research to enhance the value of Samcheok freshwater seaweed and do our best to foster related industries."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.