It is the most iron-rich food. So, it is mainly phycocyanin(the antioxidant pigment that also confers the characteristic blue . Here are 10 supplements that can reduce inflammation, backed by science. Research suggests it has antioxidant and inflammation-fighting properties and the ability to help regulate the immune system. While more studies are needed, some evidence suggests that spirulina has anti-cancer properties. Both natural and synthetic astaxanthin have been shown to provide health benefits, but there are some important differences between the two. Boasts powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, 3. A higher metabolic rate may increase the number of calories they burn, which may aid weight loss. In fact, algae benefits are so pronounced due to . There are many possible causes of anemia, included nutrient deficiencies, genetic disorders, and chronic inflammation, among others (31). Research continues to uncover more and more potential benefits of spirulina, and studies have shown that adding spirulina to your routine could help detox your body, boost energy levels and even enhance brain function. This is a detailed review of Moringa oleifera and its health benefits. In a small-scale 2014 study, people who took 6 g of spirulina a day experienced beneficial metabolic effects, alongside weight loss and better health-related quality of life. Chlorella is a form of alga that many people consider to be a superfood and which is available as a supplement. Skin: A study published in Acta Biochimica Polonica showed that both men and women experienced an improvement in crows-feet wrinkles and skin elasticity after taking 6 milligrams daily of astaxanthin. It is one of the healthiest and most nutritious foods on the. Mayo Clinic: Triglycerides: Why do they matter? Serotonin plays an important role in mental health. It is often taken as a supplement for its many health benefits. 2012 Aug;108(4):611-9.26. A small-scale 2016 study found that taking spirulina regularly for 3 months reduced the blood pressure of people with overweight and hypertension. In 2013, scientists treated 64 sites of gum disease with scaling and root planing and applied a spirulina gel to 33 of the sites. Astaxanthin is a potent nutrient that offers numerous health benefits. Spirulina is available in powder or tablet form. What Is Astaxanthin? Benefits, Sources & Side Effects of Astaxanthin The main health products are Spirulina maxima and Spirulina platensis. May lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels, 4. In addition, astaxanthin can help to protect the eyes from photo-oxidative damage. (22). In my suffering from inflammation, fatigue and depression, I decided to swallow my skepticism along with three spirulina pills and one small capsule containing astaxanthin. Pandey JP, Tiwari A, Mishra G, Mishra RM. Join Clean Eating dietitians Tiffani Bachus and Erin Macdonald for an exclusive webinar all about liver health and wellness. This ketocarotenoid shares some chemical similarities with carotenes, which are also plant colors, like lycopene and beta-carotene. Organic Spirulina & Astaxanthin combines the world's most popular superfood microalgae with the . Journal of functional foods. Astaxanthin: Health Benefits, Safety Information, Dosage, and More Astaxanthin is a powerful natural carotenoid pigment found in certain plants and marine animals such as wild sockeye salmon, lobster, shrimp, and crab, which consume large amounts of natural algae-based sources of astaxanthin. Nouchi R, Suiko T, Kimura E, Takenaka H, Murakoshi M, Uchiyama A, Aono M, Kawashima R. Effects of lutein and astaxanthin intake on the improvement of cognitive functions among healthy adults: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials. Some studies have found contamination in spirulina products, which could be dangerous. Feb 25, 2021 Spirulina and Astaxanthin Algae-based bioproducts and the body Brain: Astaxanthin is a "red" carotenoid (as found in wild salmon), shown to boost brain activity and protect brain cells from damage. This mineral supports normal daily functions like muscle use and your heartbeat. It may also help to promote the excretion of these toxins. Astaxanthin is a high-value carotenoid currently being produced by chemical synthesis and by extraction from the biomass of the microalga Haematococcus pluvialis. 2018;7(2):1-5.29. (Good for blood, prevents anemia) Spirulina contains 3900% more beta-carotene than carrots. It also has anti-inflammatory properties. Free radicals form in the body due to natural processes and exposure to harmful substances, such as alcohol, tobacco, and some foods. (Good for the eyes, powerful antioxidant, immunity) Learn more about its usage, effectiveness and benefits. That missing carotenoid is astaxanthin. (12), In a study done on rats, it was found that spirulina prevented retinal damage caused by diabetes. Role of Spirulina maxima in the control of blood glucose levels and body weight in streptozotocin induced diabetic male Wistar rats. Astaxanthin: 19 Known Medical Benefits, Uses, Side Effects & Conditions Lutein and. Fatty structures in your body can become oxidized, driving the progression of many diseases. Spirulina has shown promise for treating and preventing gum disease and other oral health problems. Can diet and exercise reverse prediabetes? PLoS One. In a 2017 animal study, researchers gave mice with type 1 diabetes spirulina extract orally. If you want to give this supplement a try, its widely available in stores and online. This information does not create any patient-doctor relationship and should not be used as a substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. But there is no good scientific evidence. Spirulina is a favorite whole-food supplement among vegetarians thanks to its high protein content (up to 60% by weight) and its complete profile of essential amino acids. One of the world's strongest natural antioxidant with benefits for joints, skin, heart, and eye health as well as recovery from exercise.*. They can cause tissue damage and may contribute to inflammation and possibly some cancers. If you do not agree to the foregoing terms and conditions, you should not enter this site. Fakhri S, Abbaszadeh F, Dargahi L, Jorjani M. Astaxanthin: A mechanistic review on its biological activities and health benefits. Helps Manage Cholesterol Might Lower Your Chance of Getting Macular Degeneration Uses of Spirulina and Astaxanthin Source of Spirulina and Astaxanthin Side Effects of Spirulina and Astaxanthin Precautions When Taking Spirulina and Astaxanthin In Summary What to Consider Before Buying Astaxanthin and Spirulina FAQS Is There Astaxanthin in Spirulina? A 2018 review found that taking spirulina significantly lowered fasting blood glucose levels. Research suggests spirulina can help reduce body fat, waist circumference, BMI, and appetite, which could make it useful as part of a weight-management program. It's one of the few nutrients known to cross both the blood-brain and blood- retina barriers to nourish these important tissues. We take your health seriously, so should you. As well as lowering cholesterol, spirulina may help manage blood pressure. In addition, natural astaxanthin is usually derived from the microalgaeHaematococcus Pluvialis, which is a rich source of this antioxidant. High blood pressure and cholesterol levels are both linked to heart disease. Certain plant foods have antioxidant properties that can help athletes and people who are physically active individuals minimize this damage. Astaxanthin accumulates in the epidermis and dermis layers of your skin, helping to block UV penetration and reduce existing damage. Research shows that spirulina can support immune system function, but this could worsen symptoms in people with auto-immune diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, or arthritis. Phycocyanin can fight free radicals and block the production of molecules that promote inflammation, providing impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects (10). Spirulina appears beneficial, as some studies pointed to improved muscle strength and endurance (38). Even skin tone and texture - it contains vitamin B-12, vitamin A, vitamin E, phosphorus, and iron - all the elements that are vital for the health of the skin. (10), In several tirals, participants who took astaxanthinhad significant improvements in visual acuity and visual contrast sensitivity. After 10 weeks, it was found that the children had increased levels of carotene in their blood. Investigative ophthalmology & visual science. Journal of medicinal food. Various algae types may benefit oral health due to their antimicrobial activity. It is the antioxidant and antiflammatory effects of astaxanthin that makes it the "King" of the carotenoids; astaxanthin's ability to scavenge free radicals in your body is up to 54 times more powerful than beta-carotene, For bulk Spirulina,Astaxanthin, contact us at email:herbext@undersun.com.cn, References:https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3917265/, https://www.amazon.com/Swanson-Organic-Spirulina-Astaxanthin-Tabs/dp/B00EALMOWW, https://healthygoods.com/dr-mercola-spiru-blue-organic-spirulina-with-astaxanthin.html, https://www.cleaneatingmag.com/clean-diet/can-algae-help-you-age-better/. What is astaxanthin? - Superfood - Gandalf Spirulina All rights reserved. with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis, as it can increase immune activity, before or after surgery, as it may affect blood glucose levels, add it to smoothies, which gives the drink a green color, sprinkle spirulina powder on salads or in soups, mix it into energy balls with other healthy ingredients, stir a tablespoon into fruit or vegetable juices. This potent combination makes Spiru-Blue the ultimate "brain and body superfood.". However, it is more closely related to oxygenated xanthophylls (an oxygen-rich plant color) like lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known for improving eye health.. Spirulina has demonstrated numerous health benefits and most of these benefits are attributed to phycocyanin- an active wonder molecule, which is considered to be the main wow factor within it. Spirulina is commonly available as a supplement at health food stores., Spirulina also contains magnesium. From preventing joint soreness after exercise and providing anti-inflammatory protection in the central nervous system, eyes and brain to acting as an oral sunscreen and improving skin elasticity, the research was as bright as a Hawaiian rainbow and perhaps just as hard to really grasp. It may help treat or manage conditions ranging from gum disease to depression, but more research is needed to confirm many of these uses. A 2017 study on older mice suggests that spirulina may preserve healthy gut bacteria during the aging process. Are Superfoods Really Good for You or Just Marketing Hype? It has pseudovitamin B12, which has not been shown to be effective in humans (6). Anti-Inflammatory HE. Artificially synthesized ones are significantly different from natural ones in terms of structure, function, application and safety. As it turns out, spirulina positively impacts many of these factors. This suggests spirulina might help protect eye health in humans, although more research is needed. Introduction. Because spirulina is high in nutrient activity, you should talk to your doctor before taking it or any other supplement. How to use garcinia cambogia and apple cider vi How to lose weight with garcinia cambogia? How much spirulina a person takes per day can vary. Here are 10 evidence-based health benefits of spirulina. What can people do to improve dental and gum health? The Occular Systemincludes the eyeball, muscles, eyelids, tear glands, optic nerve and other surrounding tissues. Yu B, Wang J, Suter PM, Russell RM, Grusak MA, Wang Y, Wang Z, Yin S, Tang G. Spirulina is an effective dietary source of zeaxanthin to humans. Nutrients. Other microalgae, such as Chlorella zofingiensis, have the potential for being used as sources of astaxanthin. 2019-441 || Public health warning against the unapproved and misleading advertisements and claims of M88 PPAR chlorella + spirulina + red algae + solweed + probiotics food supplement tablet monitored in social media. Spirulina contains protein and vitamins, making it a suitable dietary supplement for people on vegetarian or vegan diets. However, more research is needed in order to fully understand the potential of astaxanthin. Nutrients. The differences between the synthetic and the microalgae derived astaxanthin are notorious: not only their production and . Hypocholesterolemic effect of Spirulina in patients with hyperlipidemic nephrotic syndrome. Research in animals indicates that it can reduce cancer occurrence and tumor size (19, 20). All these structures must work together properly to provide clear vision. Spirulina is extremely rich in chlorophyll content, which is more than 10 times that of ordinary vegetables. Muscle Strength. A standard daily dose of spirulina is 13 grams (g), but doses of up to 10 g per day have been used effectively (1). Studies have shown that astaxanthin is more effective than other common antioxidants, such as Vitamin C and Vitamin E (7). eLS. Anemia is a condition characterized by a reduction in hemoglobin or red blood cells in your blood (31). In high amounts, some of these toxins may stress or damage your liver., There is not enough research to suggest blue-green algae is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Choi WY, Lee WK, Kim TH, Ryu YK, Park A, Lee YJ, Heo SJ, Oh C, Chung YC, Kang DH. Pharmacological research. This unique algae is believed to have been a staple for the Aztecs in Mexico. The US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved doses up to 12 milligrams per day. Spirulina is also a rich source of pigment and provides numerous other health benefits as well. In excess, free radicals can damage your cells, contribute to aging and lead to the progression of diseases like heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes and Alzheimer's disease ( 2, 3 ). Spirulina is a favorite whole-food supplement among vegetarians thanks to its high protein content (up to 60% by weight . Learn about 10 ways to improve gut health. Astaxanthin is by far the strongest antioxidant found in nature by humans. Spirulinas effects on oral cancer or cancer of the mouth have been particularly well studied. Its also responsible for producing protein and creating energy but most people dont get enough in their diet., Spirulina is a potent source of nutrients. The benefits of astaxanthin. Therefore, spirulina has a positive effect on preventing anemia. Lutein and zeaxanthin status and risk of age-related macular degeneration. The benefits of BioAstin include enhancing skin health, supporting cardiovascular wellness, easing joint and tendon pain, and protecting the cells and cell membranes. The cornea and lens of the eye are instruments to focus the light on the retina, which converts the light into electrical signals that are sent to the brain via the optic nerve. 2005 - 2023 WebMD LLC, an Internet Brands company. A large number of scientific research tests at home and abroad have proved that Spirulina has positive effects in reducing cholesterol and blood lipids, anti-cancer, weight loss, nourishing and protecting the stomach, treating anemia and trace element deficiency, protecting the liver, improving immunity, and adjusting metabolic functions. Another 2014 study in people with high cholesterol determined that 1 g of spirulina per day lowered triglycerides by 16.3% and decreased LDL cholesterol by 10.1% (14). It can also be produced by the process of chemical synthesis in a laboratory. Before taking spirulina, people should talk with a doctor to ensure it will not interact with other drugs and that it is safe for them to use. The spirulina polysaccharide in spirulina has the effect of resisting radiation damage and improving side effects caused by radiotherapy and chemotherapy, so it is a good food therapy for cancer patients. Research finds that spirulina also boosts the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight viruses and bacteria in your body., Laboratory studies show that spirulina can fight herpes, flu, and HIV though much more research is needed to test these effects in humans., Spirulina is concentrated with zeaxanthin, a plant pigment that may reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related vision loss., Its antibacterial properties may also help promote good oral health. However, more research is needed before doctors can recommend spirulina to treat any health condition. As an antioxidant, astaxanthin helps to protect cells from damage caused by inflammation and free radicals. Too good to be true, right? This could make them useful for treating or preventing caries and other bacterial and fungal infections. In addition, astaxanthin has been shown to promote the production of enzymes that protect the retina from light-induced damage. 2021 Aug 31;13(9):3054.31. Kim SH, Kim H. Inhibitory effect of astaxanthin on oxidative stress-induced mitochondrial dysfunction-a mini-review. Spirulina is a blue-green algae, and is believed to be one of the oldest life forms on Earth. We promise not to overwhelm your inbox. In one study, men who took a 6-gram spirulina supplement . Chlorella is a nutritious algae that's gaining popularity as a supplement. Ankylosing Spondylitis Pain: Fact or Fiction, Complementary Medicine / Alternative Medicine, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31960481/, https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/natural/923.html, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7061888/, https://www.fda.gov.ph/fda-advisory-no-2019-441-public-health-warning-against-the-unapproved-and-misleading-advertisements-and-claims-of-m88-ppar-chlorella-spirulina-red-algae-solweed-probiotics-food-supplement/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7664199/, https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32133854/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6241722/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136577/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3576896/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5748813/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3843431/, https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.3109/13880209.2015.1077464, https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1002/jsfa.6261, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26813468, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/16615668, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5490612/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7416373/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6871545/, https://www.worldallergyorganizationjournal.org/article/S1939-4551(20)30052-1/fulltext, https://www.researchgate.net/publication/326293829_Spirulina_as_a_main_source_of_tryptophan_for_mental_illness_Improving_level_of_serotonin_through_tryptophan_supplementation, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3845706/, https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/fdc-app.html#/food-details/170495/nutrients, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/26433766, https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/VitaminA-HealthProfessional/, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/27259333, Alzheimers: New blood biomarker could predict risk of cognitive decline, Researchers investigate what causes psoriasis and how it spreads, Low-dose atropine eyedrops may delay onset of nearsightedness in children, Heart attack may speed up cognitive decline, study finds, Type 2 diabetes: 1 in 5 'healthy' people may have prediabetes metabolism. $977 ($0.08/Count) +. Astaxanthin ameliorates aluminum chloride-induced spatial memory impairment and neuronal oxidative stress in mice. In fact, one small study showed that spirulina supplementation was able to reduce exercise-induced lipid peroxidation, inflammation, and muscle damage in 17 rugby players (18). Its main active component is called phycocyanin, which is an antioxidant that also gives spirulina its unique blue-green color (9). People should speak with a doctor or another healthcare professional before using spirulina to boost their physical or mental well-being. 2003 May 1;21(5):210-6.9. Benefits 1. Times, 5 times that of eggs, 2.7 times that of cheese, and the digestion and absorption rate is as high as 95%. 2019 May 1;158:109-19.12. European Food Safety Authority Journal: Scientific Opinion on the safety of astaxanthin-rich ingredients (AstaREAL A1010 and AstaREAL L10) as novel food ingredients., GeroScience: Neuroprotective mechanisms of astaxanthin: a potential therapeutic role in preserving cognitive function in age and neurodegeneration., Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology: Overview of the Immune Response., Marine Drugs: "Carotenoids in Marine Animals. There is some evidence that spirulina could help improve the symptoms of this condition. 2011 Nov;32(11):882-8.19. Li L, Zhao X, Wang J, Muzhingi T, Suter PM, Tang G, Yin SA. Occular health is the health of the eye. One study found that symptoms like congestion, sneezing, and itching were reduced significantly in participants, suggesting that spirulina may be a good alternative to allergy medications., Spirulina is rich in a range of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, like vitamins E, C, and B6. Astaxanthin is a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to provide a wide range of health benefits. Learn more here. Capelli B, Talbott S, Ding L. Astaxanthin sources: Suitability for human health and nutrition. These can lead to liver damage, vomiting, weakness, a rapid heartbeat, shock, and possibly death. For more in-depth resources about vitamins, minerals, and supplements, visit our dedicated hub. Pimblett, P. (2020). People consider spirulina a superfood due to its nutritional content and potential health benefits. Serban MC, Sahebkar A, Dragan S, Stoichescu-Hogea G, Ursoniu S, Andrica F, Banach M. A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of Spirulina supplementation on plasma lipid concentrations. Get even more from your daily supplements. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Adding it to the diet can help people with thyroid function, diabetes, and weight loss. This reaction is called allergic rhinitis. Astaxanthin vs Spirulina - Blog - Undersun Biomedtech Corp 7 Astaxanthin Benefits - SelfDecode Supplements 2011 Aug;2011.28. While more research is needed before any strong claims can be made, spirulina may be one of the few superfoods worthy of the title. Nutrition Information One tablespoon of spirulina contains: Calories: 20 Protein: 4 grams Fat: 1 gram Carbohydrates: 2 grams Fiber: 0 grams Sugar: 0 grams Spirulina is a good source of:.