Health Benefits of Blue Green Algae

In spite of their name, blue green algae are not algae, but a form of bacteria that is an unusual green color. Also called cyanobacteria, blue green algae grow in both salt and fresh water, especially quiet lakes and ponds where they give the water a dark green color. Blue green algae, including a type called spirulina, contain valuable nutrients and could also provide additional health benefits

Blue Green Algae

Ancient people recognized the nutritional value of blue green algae. The Aztecs consumed it regularly and native inhabitants of Africa also made it a common addition to their diet. A number of different organisms make up the group called blue green algae. Although they are not plants, they contain the green pigment chlorophyll and are able to carry out photosynthesis. The most studied of these organisms is spirulina, which is quite rich in vitamins, minerals and protein.

Nutritional Benefits

The blue green algae spirulina is a good source of protein, with about 6 grams in each 100-gram serving. Its protein content includes all the essential amino acids, making it a complete source of these important nutrients. A 100-gram serving also contains about 2 grams of carbohydrates and almost no fat. With only 26 calories in each serving, spirulina is a naturally low-calorie food. It also provides modest amounts of several important minerals, including calcium, iron, potassium and magnesium, as well as small amounts of zinc and phosphorus. The algae also contain vitamins A, C, E and several of the B vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, vitamin B-6 and folate.

Health Benefits

Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center says that blue green algae may boost your immune system and have natural anti-viral properties, helping suppress growth of HIV and other viruses. Consuming blue green algae may also help relieve fatigue and improve your tolerance of exercise. A clinical study published in "Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise" found that male subjects who consumed spirulina for four weeks were able to exercise longer and had changes in their blood that indicated better usage of nutrients compared to a placebo group. Blue green algae may also lower blood cholesterol levels and reduce blood pressure, according to a study published in "Nutritional Research and Practice" in which 37 subjects with Type 2 diabetes had improved blood lipids and lower blood pressure after taking spirulina for 12 weeks.

Usage and Recommendations

Blue green algae supplements are available in capsules from many health-food stores. The supplements usually contain spirulina, sometimes in combination with other algae called Aphanizomeron flos aquae. Choose only products certified free of contamination by microcystins, potentially harmful toxins that the algae sometimes produce. Contaminant-free supplements are generally considered safe, although you should avoid them if you take immunosuppressive medication or if you are pregnant or breast-feeding. Discuss use of blue green algae with your doctor to decide if consuming them might be helpful for you.

Source:

Joanne Marie - https://healthyeating.sfgate.com/health-benefits-blue-green-algae-5022.html