Compositions comprising an alginate, a source of sodium ions and a carrier (e.g., a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier), which are characterized by reduced association of the alginate chains and hence by at least one of: (i) a zeta potential weaker than −25 mV, at a concentration of 0.5% (w/v) alginate in the carrier; and (ii) a diffusion coefficient of at least 10−8 cm2/millisecond, at a concentration of 0.5% (w/v) alginate in the carrier, are disclosed. Also disclosed are uses of the composition and methods utilizing the composition for treating inflammatory bowel disease, liver damage, diseases and disorders, for treating a medical condition treatable by a hepatotoxic agent and for reducing or preventing liver damage, including liver damage caused by a hepatotoxic agent.