Obesity is a condition characterized by excess fat and is diagnosed when body mass index is more than 30 kg/m2 and a waist circumference is more then 101 cm or 39.8 inches in men and 87 cm or 34.2 inches in women. Obesity increases your risk to develop heart problems, diabetes, liver conditions, osteoarthritis, fertility issues and psychological disorders. Conventional treatment focuses on dietary changes and, sometimes, prescribed medications and surgery. Science is always looking for new ways to help fight obesity. Some studies have shown that the properties of spirulina, for example, appear to be well-suited to lowering cholesterol and fighting obesity.
Spirulina
Spirulina is an alga found in the subtropical and tropical salty waters of Africa, Asia and Central America. It contains antioxidant vitamins, such as A and E, minerals like iron, magnesium, calcium and selenium, essential amino acids and gamma linoleic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid. In addition, spirulina contains C-phycocyanin, a special protein widely researched for potential health benefits. Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid found in significant amounts in spirulina; this amino acid may play a role in helping you lose weight.
Weight Management
Spirulina has been used to promote weight loss because of its high phenylalanine levels, although the FDA does not support this claim. In fact, a systematic review of several studies found that spirulina promotes weight gain in malnourished patients. The review was carried out by M. Halidou and associates and published in the December 2008 issue of "Revue d'Epidemiologie et de Sante Publique."
Decreases Blood Fat Levels
Spirulina extracts consumed for eight weeks significantly improved blood fat levels in animal models, thus preventing heart diseases, according to S.H. Cheong and his research team from Chungnam National University, South Korea. The study was published in a 2010 issue of "Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology." The authors found supplementation with spirulina improved total cholesterol -- triglycerides, HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol.
Considerations
Spirulina has the potential to improve the blood's fat levels; thus, obese individuals may benefit from using this supplement. The benefits of spirulina to lose abdominal fat are not currently supported by research studies. If you have excess fat, consult a nutritionist who can recommend a healthy diet and supplements that can effectively help you lose weight. Keep in mind that spirulina should not replace any medication you are currently taking.
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