Blue Green Algae Supplements Support Good Nutrition

By Sally Delacruz


The cloudy, pervasive murk that appears in some bodies of water when sunshine, temperature and nutrients reach optimal levels is called a bloom. It is actually a population explosion of microscopic life forms, the majority of which are not suitable for human consumption. While a few are actually deadly, there are edible varieties which are specifically grown to make blue green algae supplements, an increasingly popular dietary aid.

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.

Modern products made from this group include agar, a common ingredient in foods and industrial applications. Named for their cyan blue color, humanly edible forms obtain this pigmentation through bacterial photosynthesis, which is normally the way plants derive energy from sunshine. This substance has been highly praised by some nutritionists, even having been called a solution to future world food shortages.

Although it may be hyperbole to call it a super-food, this green soup has become a source of profit for some farmers. One prime location in North America is Klamath Lake in the State of Oregon. With its ideal climate and unpolluted water, conditions are ideal for raising creatures at the very bottom of the food chain. Spirulina is the variety most often grown, and is said to possess the greatest nutritional properties.

It is not hard to understand the consumer enthusiasm these products generate. The same process that gives these tiny organisms their color also makes them relatively high in vegetable proteins, including beta-carotene. They contain a wide spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals, including amino acids, and also may have generate antioxidant properties. These characteristics have given rise to many health claims.

Although difficult to prove scientifically, enthusiasts recommend it as a way to ease anxiety and depression, an aid for losing excess weight, and a palliative for certain female health complications. It is said to reduce inflammation, suppress certain oral cancers, and boost flagging immune systems. Some recommend taking it for chronic fatigue, or to combat the effects of hyperactivity-attention disorder (ADHD).

Even though it does provide excellent nutritional support, some extreme claims regarding inherent, beneficial properties cannot actually be proven, and have generated legal actions and controversy. Although there is no realistic evidence against taking this supplement over the long term, any claims about actual medical advantages fall into the area of subjective interpretation, and are different for every user.

Regarded as food supplement and not a medication, the substance can be taken in pill form, sprinkled over other dishes, or combined with juice or water. Over-dosing is next to impossible, although pregnant women are advised to discontinue use. People who use it daily report an increase in energy and a greater sense of physical well-being, with an improvement in many physical functions.




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