Spirulina is one of many types of marine blue-green algae. Sold as a nutritional supplement, spirulina has been used for years to treat a number of conditions. However, MedlinePlus points out that little scientific evidence exists of its effectiveness. If you decide to try it anyway, make sure you buy from a reputable seller. It's possible for algae to become contaminated with toxic heavy metals.
Strengthens the Immune System
Preliminary test studies indicate that spirulina might help with the production of antibodies, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. The studies did not involve humans, however, so it's hard to say whether the results will be the same once clinical trials are organized. Since spirulina is high in many vitamins and minerals, it might be beneficial to those who feel weak or are recuperating from an illness.
Nutritional Benefits
Spirulina is rich in several nutrients. It is a rich source of protein and provides essential fatty acids. It also contains B vitamins, calcium, iron, potassium and zinc, among others. Although spirulina contains trace amounts of vitamin B-12, the American Dietetic Association determined it's not enough to be a reliable source. Vegetarians who consume no animal products whatsoever cannot rely on spirulina to meet their B-12 requirements. Spirulina is also rich in carotenes.
HIV-Related Benefits
A number of studies have focused on the effects of spirulina in HIV patients. An early study published in May 1998 in the "Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes & Human Retrovirology" indicated that spirulina might help slow down the duplication of HIV-infected cells. A newer study, published 2005 in the "Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism," showed that spirulina might help HIV-positive children battle anemia and gain weight. More research is needed before spirulina can be recommended for HIV patients.
Heart Health
Spirulina seems to help with a number of heart-related problems. A study published in November 2007 in the "Lipids in Health and Disease" journal indicates that spirulina can help lower cholesterol, triglycerides and blood pressure. Because spirulina is a powerful antioxidant, it can also help protect the heart and cells against aging.
References
- "Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes & Human Retrovirology"; Inhibition of HIV-1 Replication by an Aqueous Extract of Spirulina platensis (Arthrospira platensis); Ayehunie, Seyoum et al.; May 1998
- Herb Wisdom: Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis)
- "Lipids in Health and Disease"; Antihyperlipemic and Antihypertensive Effects of Spirulina Maxima in an Open Sample of Mexican Population: a Preliminary Report; Patricia V Torres-Duran et al.; Nov. 2007
- "Annals of Nutrition & Metabolism"; Nutrition Rehabilitation of HIV-Infected and HIV-Negative Undernourished Children Utilizing Spirulina; Jacques Simpore et al; 2005
- "Journal of Food Science"; Biomass Nutrient Profiles of Three Microalgae: Spirulina platensis, Chlorella vulgaris, and Isochrisis galbana; --. Tokusoglu et al; July 2006
- MedlinePlus; Blue-green algae; Nov. 18, 2010
Member Comments