Health Benefits of Blue-Green Algae
Organic blue-green algae is one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Two varieties, spirulina and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, are the most consumed forms of blue-green algae; which has superfood status due to high concentrations of proteins, vitamins and nutrients.[1]
How Is Blue-Green Algae Cultivated?
Most blue-green algae products contain Aphanizomenon flos-aquae harvested from Upper Klamath Lake in southern Oregon. Harvesting is done during the summertime, June to November. The algae is filtered to preserve the most vibrant blooms and then further purified by centrifugation. The AFA is then chilled and sold frozen or dried at low temperatures and sold as a powder.
Natural Compounds in Organic Blue-Green Algae
Blue-green algae is 70% vegetable protein and has higher levels of beta-carotene than broccoli. The one-two punch potency of blue-green algae is that it contains a high concentration of nutrients- over 65 vitamins, minerals, and enzymes and the complete spectrum of eight essential amino acids and ten nonessential amino acids... and they are all easily absorbed by the body. In fact, up to 97% of the beneficial vitamins, minerals, and enzymes found in blue-green algae are easily absorbed (some supplements are as low as 5-25% absorbable). AFA also contains the most biologically active chlorophyll of any known food.
Antioxidant Activity of Blue-Green Algae
Aphanizomenon flos-aquae is rich in compounds that provide antioxidants. A measurement called the "oxygen radical absorbance capacity" (ORAC) is used to determine free radical scavenging capacity of foods and other substances purported to contain antioxidants. Italy's University of Urbino Carlo Bo applied the ORAC method to edible AFA. The outcome was positive in favor of researchers supporting the use of AFA as a dietary antioxidant supplement to relieve oxidative stress.[2]
The University of Urbino Carlo B conducted another study designed to evaluate the ability of AFA to provide defense against oxidative damage to normal human red blood cells and plasma. Results suggested AFA lowered oxidative damage in both. Furthermore, AFA delayed the depletion of enzymes that are beneficial to the body.[3]
A Japanese study found that a product containing blue-green algae from lake Klamath exhibited considerable antioxidant activity and was an effective adaptogenic; that is, a substance that helps the body adapt to protect against stressors.[4]
Blue-Green Algae & B12
There is some controversy over whether or not AFA is an effective source of vitamin B12. Many natural sources of vitamin B12 are biologically inadequate. However, preliminary research conducted by Italy's Department of Neurorehabilitation at Villa Salus Hospital evaluated the vitamin B12 levels of 15 vegan subjects who had supplemented with an algae product from Lake Klamath and found their B12 levels increased over a control group. Although not conclusive, researchers believed the preliminary research supported the argument that AFA is a reliable source of vitamin B12.[5]
Blue-Green Algae & Stem Cells
In adults, stem cells have the function of repairing damaged cells. Unfortunately, as we age, stem cells have a reduced restorative ability and are more vulnerable to oxidative stress. This results in the body being less able to repair itself. Based on previous studies that showed blue-green algae could modulate immune function in animals, the Department of Neurosurgery at USF investigated the effects of AFA on cultured human stem cells. Researchers noted that preliminary results suggested an ethanol extract of AFA may promote human stem cell proliferation.[6]
Potential Concerns About Blue-Green Algae
Although blue-green algae is commonly consumed in the United States, Canada, and Europe, some concern has been voiced about the potential for the presence of microcystin, a toxic byproduct of blue-green algae. In response, the Oregon Health Division and the Oregon Department of Agriculture have established regulatory limits on microcystin content in BGA products.[7] Additionally, some research has shown a correlation between beta-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) — an amino acid produced by blue-green algae — and some neurodegenerative conditions.[8]
As with most products, if you're pregnant or nursing, it's a good idea to first consult your healthcare provider before supplementing with blue-green algae.
References (8)
- Kay RA. Microalgae as food and supplement. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr. 1991;30(6):555-73. Review.
- Benedetti S, et al. Oxygen radical absorbance capacity of phycocyanin and phycocyanobilin from the food supplement Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. J Med Food. 2010 Feb;13(1):223-7. doi: 10.1089/jmf.2008.0257.
- Benedetti S, et al. Antioxidant properties of a novel phycocyanin extract from the blue-green alga Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. Life Sci. 2004 Sep 24;75(19):2353-62.
- Sedriep S, et al. Beneficial nutraceutical modulation of cerebral erythropoietin expression and oxidative stress: an experimental study. J Biol Regul Homeost Agents. 2011 Apr-Jun;25(2):187-94.
- Baroni L, et al. Effect of a Klamath algae product ("AFA-B12") on blood levels of vitamin B12 and homocysteine in vegan subjects: a pilot study. Int J Vitam Nutr Res. 2009 Mar;79(2):117-23. doi: 10.1024/0300-9831.79.2.117.
- Shytle DR, et al. Effects of blue-green algae extracts on the proliferation of human adult stem cells in vitro: a preliminary study. Med Sci Monit. 2010 Jan;16(1):BR1-5.
- Gilroy DJ, et al. Assessing potential health risks from microcystin toxins in blue-green algae dietary supplements. Environ Health Perspect. 2000 May;108(5):435-9.
- Holtcamp W. Was Lou Gehrig's ALS Caused By Tap Water? Pacific Standard. 5 Jan 2012. Accessed 26 March 2019.
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
