Blue-green algae refers to a large group of plant-like organisms. You can find them in salt water and some fresh water lakes. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae. It contains protein, vitamins and minerals, which include B vitamins, zinc, copper, vitamin E, manganese, beta-carotene, selenium and gamma linolenic acid, an essential fatty acid. Spirulina appears to have health benefits, but there are precautions for you to know. It is important to consult your doctor before taking spirulina.
Immune Support
According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, a number of animal studies suggest that spirulina can boost your immune system. In studies it increased antibody production, as well as increased production of cytokines, which are infection-fighting proteins, and other immune-boosting cells. Though human studies are needed, one clinical trial involving humans taking chlorella, another blue-green algae, that did not boost the immune response to the flu vaccine.
Probiotic Enhancement
Probiotics are bacteria that inhabit your stomach. They exert beneficial effects and are known as "friendly" bacteria. Probiotics aid digestion and compete for space with bad bacteria, keeping populations in check and preventing overgrowth. Antibiotics can kill bad bacteria as well as beneficial bacteria, which leaves you susceptible to illness. According to UMMC, in test tubes, spirulina enhanced the growth of L. acidophilus, a friendly bacteria, and other probiotics. More research is needed to determine if spirulina exerts the same effect in humans, the UMMC says.
Allergic Reactions
Histamine is a compound involved in your body's immune response. Your body releases histamine into your bloodstream when you come in contact with something that you are allergic to. Spirulina may protect against allergic reactions. According to the UMMC, animal and test tube studies suggest spirulina may help stop the release of histamine, preventing allergy symptoms such as itchy eyes, runny nose and hives. However, more research is needed to determine if spirulina has the same effect in humans, the UMMC says.
Contaminant Safety
According to Medline Plus, some blue-green algae products are contaminated with mycrocystins and other contaminants. Microcystins are hepatotoxins -- chemicals that damage your liver. It is important to select high-quality spirulina that has tested free of microcystins and other toxins. Taking contaminated spirulina products can cause nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, weakness, shock, liver damage and death.
Other Precautions
According to Medline Plus, blue-green algae products that are free of contaminants are considered sage if you are healthy; however, if you have an auto-immune disease, it may complicate your condition. Spirulina has not been evaluated for pregnant and nursing women. It is best not to take spirulina if you are pregnant or nursing. Spirulina may interact with some medications. Consult your doctor if you are on a prescribed medication.
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