Algae supplement and its major merits and demerits

One may find algae and seaweeds growing in different water bodies that are sometimes added to the natural nutritional items. These are often appreciated because of the presence of protein, minerals and super-food qualities in huge quantity. Some of them include kelp, spirulina, chlorella and various other types of blue green algae and also red algae. The only problem with this is that it is not endorsed or regulated by FDA, which makes it difficult to know whether the algae supplement is coming from a reliable source.

However, while buying supplement derived from algae one needs to get it from a reliable source because if it is microcystins contaminated then it will cause damage to the liver. Further, any person having genetic disorder called phenylketonuria or who is going through anticoagulant treatments must control the intake of blue green algae because of the presence of amino acid phenylalanine and Vitamin K in large quantity. The said disorders do not allow the body to process the amino acids delivered to the body thereby, causing accumulation of the substance in the brain in excessive quantity.

Now that we have discussed the various side-effects of algae supplement benefits as a source of nutrition to our body let’s discuss the positive facets of algae. A large number of experts and social organizations support the intake of algae and spirulina as a measure to reduce child undernourishment across the globe. Intake of blue green algae is also beneficial because of its ability to give relief from arthritis and allergies. Spirulina is considered effective against the following:

•    HIV progression
•    Memory loss due to aging
•    Heart damage after treatment with chemotherapy

Besides, many new researches are also showing that the algae may be helpful for recovering from strokes and also from certain types of diabetes.