Spirulina is a health food supplement-processed blue-green algae, especially rich in protein and vitamins. It is traditional food in Africa and Mexico. It is found on the surface of salty alkaline rivers and lakes in the tropics, and commercially farmed in California and Hawaii. Scientific studies are determining whether it is effective medical treatment. Cyanotech Corporation publishes a comprehensive and current library of about 400 spirulina research project abstracts. It condenses a massive amount of data on the algae's bernefits. On nutritional value there is consensus. On medical benefit, the jury's still out.
Facts About Spirulina
Spirulina is a microscopic, primitive, organism. A single cell, connected to other cells by spiral shaped filaments, it lives in colonies on surface water or moist ground. Like plants, the cells manufacture food from sunlight, absorb carbon dioxide and release oxygen. Unlike plants, they do not form roots, stems or leaves. Farmed or wild, spirulina is harvested by skimming and spreading the algae to dry in mats. These are cut in pieces to eat, or pulverized and sold as powder or pills.
Nutritional Use: Health Promotion
Spirulina is used in combination with other foods or taken as a tablet or capsule. It is exceptionally high in nutrients-carotenoids, the vitamins B, calcium, iron, magnesium, manganese, potassium and zinc. By weight it is 70 percent protein. It has no empty calories. In developed countries it is used as a supplement to a healthy diet. In undeveloped countries it is considered a possible solution for wide-spread malnutrition.
Therapeutic Use: Prevention and Treatment
Studies of spirulina as health protection or treatment are underway. There are many anecdotes about good therapeutic results. so you may want to use spirulina to strengthen your immune or nervous system, counter allergies, or reduce appetite to control weight. The algae is said to fight cancer and viral infections, counteract toxins, protect the liver, reduce blood pressure, manage ulcerative colitis, improve cholesterol levels, increase mental alertness, and hasten wound healing. Remember, however, there is not yet sufficient scientific evidence of spirulina's efficacy to warrant government or official medical recommendations, pro or con.
Risks And Side Effects
According to the Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center, animal studies have shown that spirulina as a food is nontoxic. It is contraindicated for people suffering from PKU. The National Institutes of Health says possible side effects are headache, muscle pain, flushing of the face, sweating, skin reactions or difficulty concentrating. Contaminated algae harvested in uncontrolled settings can cause liver damage, diarrhea and vomiting. BIDMC and NIH state that, based on available research, no recommendation can be made either for or against the use of spirulina.
Using Spirulina
The average total adult dose of spirulina is 1 to 10 g per day and probably should not exceed 50 g. Spirulina may interact with certain drugs, herbs and other supplements. Check with your health practitioner to make sure you're not taking anything that contraindicates use. The source of the supplement is important. Some spirulina contains damaging heavy metals. Not all spirulina is grown, processed, or packaged in the same way. Companies add different ingredients, even within the same brand. Many people choose an organic variety. Pay attention to product labels to determine what's right for you
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