Crohn's disease is a digestive disorder in which parts of your intestinal tract develop ulcers and become inflamed, causing painful symptoms that may become debilitating. Crohn's disease usually develops between ages 20 and 30, and is equally likely in men and women. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that may be helpful if you are at risk of or already have Crohn's disease. Talk to your doctor about spirulina to decide whether it might be useful in your situation.
Causes and Symptoms
Although the exact cause of Crohn's disease in still unknown, it may involve an error by your immune system, which may react to food or common bacteria as if they were invading pathogens. The resulting immune response produces inflammation in the intestines, causing swelling and damage to the lining tissues. The symptoms of Crohn's disease may differ from person to person, but generally include abdominal pain and diarrhea, sometimes with rectal bleeding. The disorder may also cause anemia from blood loss, fatigue, weight loss or fever.
Spirulina
Blue-green algae include members of the genus Spirulina, which live in salt water in the tropics and in a few alkaline, fresh-water lakes. Spirulina algae are highly nutritious, containing large amounts of protein, lots of vitamins including vitamin E and the B-complex vitamins, beta-carotene and several minerals such as iron, zinc, manganese and selenium. Spirulina is also rich in gamma linoleic acid, a polyunsaturated fatty acid, and other natural compounds with biological activity that make the algae of potential benefit if you have Crohn's disease.
Properties
One common symptom of Crohn's disease, frequent and debilitating diarrhea, may cause malnourishment and weight loss. Because spirulina is highly nutritious, consuming it may improve your nutritional status and reduce weight loss and fatigue. In addition, spirulina is a potent antioxidant that also boosts the immune system and helps suppress inflammation, as shown by many laboratory studies summarized in a review paper in the "Journal of the American Neutraceutical Association" in 2002. Research shows that spirulina suppresses inflammation by inhibiting production of inflammatory chemicals, and may also combat unhealthy micro-organisms that may flourish in your intestinal tract after a bout of diarrhea, both through its effects on the immune system and its direct anti-pathogenic activity. While the findings are very promising, clinical trials of spirulina in subjects at risk of Crohn's disease are still needed.
Recommendations and Precautions
Spirulina is available as a powder, or in flakes, pills or capsules from most health food stores. Although generally considered safe, naturally harvested spirulina may contain toxic contaminants. Purchase supplements only from well-established companies, and check labels for certification that the product is contaminant-free. Do not take spirulina if you have an autoimmune disorder, and consult your doctor before adding it to your regimen.
References
- National Digestive Diseases Clearinghouse: What I Need to Know About Crohn's Disease
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Spirulina
- Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: Blue-Green Algae
- "The Journal of the American Neutraceutical Association"; The Potential Application of Spirulina (Arthrospira) as a Nutritional and Therapeutic Supplement in Health Management; A. Belay; 2002
- Drugs.com: Spirulina
