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Blue Green Algae Supplements Support Better Health

By Sally Delacruz


When high levels of nutrients, adequate sunshine and the right temperatures prevail, a murky, pervasive, substance may develop in certain bodies of water. Called an algal bloom, this phenomenon is actually a microscopic population explosion. Most varieties of this organism are not normally eaten by humans, and a few can actually be harmful. Some edible species have become the source of blue green algae supplements, a popular dietary addition.

Biologically speaking, these are unusual creatures. Because of their bright green color, people assume that they belong to the plant kingdom, but correct classification is not that simple. While they definitely possess plant-like characteristics, other properties are predominantly bacterial in function and physiology. These organisms have adapted over the ages to nearly every environment and temperature range.

Some salt-water species already provide agar for both industrial and commercial food production. Fresh-water species may sport their namesake cyan blue pigmentation, which is a result of internal photosynthesis, or the method plants use to process energy from the sun. Commercially grown varieties are transformed from pond scum to powders or tablets, and have been declared one of the most promising ways to end world malnutrition.

The designation as super-food may be hyperbole, but it is true that this product family has created a new market. Klamath Lake in southern Oregon is one of the best farming locations due to the local climatic conditions and a lack of pollution. Most commercial growers harvest types of Spirulina, which contains the highest levels of nutrients and can be controlled relatively easily.

The excitement these products generate among health-conscious consumers is easy to understand. Because of their unique internal processes, the same factors that give them their vibrant color also makes them higher in beta-carotene and vegetable proteins. Their anti-oxidant characteristics are well-known, and they also contain essential minerals and vitamins. These substances have been the source of substantial health claims.

Even though science has not yet substantiated these results, the substance is used to help drop extra pounds, relieve chronic anxiety and depression, and even to mitigate some female reproductive health problems. Daily use is said to reduce early stages of oral cancer, bolster the immune system, and relieve chronic fatigue while boosting energy. Users say it helps with the common problems associated with ADHD (hyperactivity-attention disorder).

Some of those unproven assertions have created controversy and sparked legal action in the past, regardless of any nutritional advantages. Using this type of supplement as a natural aid is probably neither toxic nor harmful in recommended amounts, but the actual results cannot be easily duplicated in a laboratory. They are subjective, and vary widely for each individual.

Although not a drug or medication, this food supplement is available in powders that can be sprinkled over other foods or dissolved in juice or water, or can be taken in standard capsule form. Harm from over-dosing is rare, but pregnant women are advised to temporarily avoid using it. People who consume it daily say that it imparts of feeling of overall good health and increased well-being.




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