This study explores the effects of dietary brown macroalgae (Ascophyllum nodosum) in-
clusion on digestibility and blood biochemical indices and redox markers in piglets fed diets with
varying levels (0%, 0.6% and 1%) of macroalgae from 18 to 64 days of age. Macroalgae significantly
influenced lipid profiles, reducing total cholesterol levels (quadratic contrast p = 0.001) and demon-
strating an increase in high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, particularly with 1% macroalgae
inclusion (linear contrast p < 0.001), with a decrease in low-density lipoprotein cholesterol in both
macroalgae-supplemented groups (linear contrast p = 0.001). Additionally, macroalgae had a positive
impact on the activities of antioxidative enzymes (ferric-reducing ability of plasma, superoxide
dismutase, reduced glutathione) and reduced lipid peroxidation products (lipid hydroperoxide, mal-
ondialdehyde) in the blood, liver tissue, and intestinal epithelium of the ileum, suggesting enhanced
antioxidative defense mechanisms. These changes were dose-dependent; in blood plasma, they
exhibited both a linear and quadratic response, while in the tissues, the response was primarily linear.
Additionally, an increase in the digestibility of crude fat in macroalgae-supplemented groups was
observed (linear contrast p < 0.001), highlighting their potential role in improving nutrient absorption
and digestion. The study findings emphasize the health benefits of natural, seaweed-based additives
in diets, particularly in managing oxidative stress and improving lipid profiles, and highlight the
potential of macroalgae as a natural dietary supplement to improve antioxidant systems and lipid
metabolism in piglets.