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Blue-green algae

The term blue-green algae describes a large and diverse group of simple, plant-like organisms found in salt water and some large freshwater lakes. Blue-green algae products are used for many conditions, but to date there is not enough scientific data to determine whether blue-green algae are effective for any of these conditions. Blue-green algae are also used as a source of protein, B vitamins and iron. In addition, they are used for weight loss, ADHD disorders (attention deficit hyperactivity disorder), hay fever, diabetes, stress, fatigue, excitability and depression, as well as premenstrual syndrome and other female health problems.

Some people use blue-green algae to treat precancerous growths in the mouth, improve immune system function, improve memory, increase energy and metabolic rate, reduce cholesterol levels, prevent heart disease, heal wounds, improve digestion and promote gut health. Blue-green algae are usually found in tropical or subtropical waters that have a high salt content, but there are also species that grow in freshwater lakes. The natural color of these algae can give water bodies a dark green appearance. The altitude, temperature and solar radiation of the waters in which blue-green algae grow dramatically affect the types and mix of blue-green algae in these waters.

Some blue-green algae used for supplements are cultivated under controlled conditions. Others grow in a natural environment where they are more likely to be contaminated with bacteria, liver toxins (microcystins) produced by certain bacteria and heavy metals. You should therefore only use blue-green algae products that have been tested for such contaminants and found to be free from contamination. Although it is often claimed that blue-green algae are an excellent source of protein, in reality they are no better than milk as a source of protein, but easily cost thirty times as much per gram.

How effective is blue-green algae?

There is not enough scientific data to determine how effective blue-green algae are for the following applications:

  • Pre-cancerous sores in the mouth (oral leukoplakia): Early scientific research shows that taking 1 gram of Spirulina blue-green algae (Spirulina fusiformis) daily for 12 months reduces oral leukoplakia in people who chew tobacco.
  • Weight loss: Scientific data shows that taking spirulina blue-green algae does not appear to help with body weight loss.
  • Tics or twitching of the eyelids (blepharospasm or Meige syndrome): Just beginning research shows that taking a specific blue-green algae product (Super Blue-Green Algae (SBGA), Cell Tech) for 6 months does not reduce eyelid spasms in people who suffer from blepharospasm.

There is also insufficient scientific data to assess the effectiveness of blue-green algae on diabetes, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), premenstrual syndrome (PMS), excitability, depression, high cholesterol levels, heart disease and other conditions. The same applies to the use of blue-green algae to boost immune function, improve memory, increase energy, reduce fatigue, aid digestion and as a source of protein, vitamin B12 and iron. Further scientific research is required before conclusions can be drawn about the effectiveness of blue-green algae for these applications.

How do blue-green algae work?

Blue-green algae have a high protein, iron and mineral content. Blue-green algae have been studied for their potential effects on the immune system, swelling, inflammation and viral infections.

Are there any safety concerns?

Blue-green algae products that are free of contaminants, which may include liver-damaging substances called microcystins, heavy metals and harmful bacteria, are likely to be safe and safe for most people. Blue-green algae products contaminated with the above substances are not considered safe, especially for children. Children are more sensitive to contaminated blue-green algae products than adults. Contaminated blue-green algae products can have side effects such as liver damage, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, weakness, thirst, rapid heartbeat, shock and death. You should not use a blue-green algae product that has not been tested and found to be free of microcystins and other contaminants.

Precautions and warnings

Pregnancy and lactation: Not enough is known about the use of blue-green algae during pregnancy and lactation, so err on the side of caution and avoid using blue-green algae during this time.

"Autoimmune diseases" such as multiple sclerosis (MS), lupus (systemic lupus erythematosus, SLE), rheumatoid arthritis, pemphigus vulgaris and others: Blue-green algae can increase the activity of the immune system and this could aggravate the symptoms of autoimmune diseases, which is why you should refrain from taking blue-green algae products if you suffer from such a disease.

Phenylketonuria: The spirulina species of blue-green algae contains the chemical phenylalanine, which can aggravate phenylketonuria. You should therefore avoid spirulina if you suffer from phenylketonuria.

Are there any interactions with medication?

You should be careful when combining blue-green algae products with the following medications.

Medications that reduce the function of the immune system: Blue-green algae can increase the function of the immune system. By enhancing immune function, blue-green algae may reduce the effectiveness of medications designed to reduce immune function.

Are there any interactions with medicinal plants or supplements?

There are no known interactions with medicinal plants or supplements.

Are there any interactions with food?

There are no known interactions with food.

Recommended dosage

The appropriate dosage of blue-green algae depends on various factors, including age, health status and several other factors. At this time, there is not enough scientific information to determine an appropriate dosage range for blue-green algae, so you should follow the dosage instructions on the label or consult a doctor or pharmacist before taking it.

References

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