Algae are aquatic plants widely celebrated for their potential health benefits, including improved heart health, enhanced immune function, and improved skin health. We’ll discuss five great algae health benefits and recommend one of the best superfood products containing this nutritional powerhouse.
If you’re like many health-conscious consumers, you may be seeking products and ingredients to improve your overall health. One potent ingredient that you may not have considered is algae, which delivers a wide variety of health benefits. Algae, a marine plant, is becoming a popular supplement ingredient; the algae protein market is now valued at approximately $3.15 billion.
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In this article, we’ll discuss algae and its medicinal uses. Then, we’ll explore five important algae health benefits worth knowing.
How do algae health benefits work?
Let’s start by giving a brief background on algae and its uses.
Various cultures have appreciated the health benefits of algae for millennia. The earliest archaeological evidence of human consumption of algae dates back to around 2500 BC in Peru. In Japan, algae-based dishes have long been considered delicacies, while in Southeast Asia, they have been an integral dietary component. Today, algae as food hold a commercial value of several billion dollars, indicating the continued recognition of algae health benefits worldwide.
There are several different varieties of algae commonly used in supplements, including blue-green algae. Blue-green algae refers to a group of bacteria that thrive in saltwater and some freshwater lakes. It has been used as a food source in Mexico and parts of Africa, and it’s known for its protein content and potential benefits in managing high blood pressure. Another common algae used in supplements is spirulina. Spirulina has been called one of the “most nutrient-dense foods” as it’s full of antioxidants and nutrients. It has even been used as a dietary supplement by NASA astronauts.
Now that we have provided an introduction, let’s explore five significant algae health benefits you should know about.
Algae health benefit 1 – helps lower blood pressure
There is strong evidence that algae can help lower blood pressure. A 2007 study showed that spirulina has the potential to lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Similarly, a 2018 study tested certain molecules of spirulina – SP6 – and found that they may help relax the arteries, allowing for improved blood flow and decreased blood pressure. Although a 2022 study yielded more modest results, the overall evidence thus far is promising. These findings strongly indicate that further research should be conducted to explore spirulina’s potential as a treatment for high blood pressure.
Algae health benefit 2 – may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
Another example of algae health benefits is its potential impact on heart health. According to a 2013 scientific review, blue-green algae may help prevent cardiovascular disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). This is attributed to algae’s anti-inflammatory properties. When consumed, algae may offer protection against various other inflammatory-related conditions, such as arthritis and colitis.
Algae health benefit 3 – potential anti-cancer properties
Researchers are actively studying algae’s potential anti-cancer properties. For instance, a 2009 study found that spirulina could reduce the incidence of liver tumors. Similarly, another study demonstrated that spirulina may help mitigate the side effects of chemotherapy.
However, many of these studies were conducted on animal models. Therefore, further research is needed to determine the extent of these effects in humans.
Algae health benefit 4 – may promote immune function
Several studies have documented various algae health benefits for the immune system. For example, a 2022 study tracked the immune cell counts of young soccer players and observed that those who received a spirulina supplement experienced consistent cell ratios and improved immune regulation.
Interestingly, some algae can also work in reverse, exhibiting immune-modulating effects. One study found that compounds derived from micro-algae could help suppress immune responses, which is useful for certain cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy.
Algae health benefit 5 – helps improve skin health
The last of the algae health benefits we’ll discuss is its potential effect on skin health.
Algae have long been used by the skincare industry due to their ability to hydrate the skin and protect against sun damage. Modern research further corroborates these claims. A 2018 scientific review found that marine algae may protect against various skin conditions, including wrinkles, discoloration, dry skin disorders, and skin cancer.
Where to get algae health benefits – Nuzest Good Green Vitality
Nuzest‘s Good Green Vitality superfood product is a highly recommended source of algae health benefits.
Nuzest is a health supplement brand that prioritizes clean, plant-based formulations. Founder Trevor Bolland was inspired by his daughter’s battle with multiple sclerosis, leading him to create a natural and wholesome product to support her and others facing similar challenges. As Bolland says, the company’s goal is “to produce products that are suitable for everyone, which means plant-based.”
Nuzest Good Green Vitality offers a potent blend of algae health benefits. Alongside spirulina, this supplement contains many other healthy and natural ingredients, including beetroot, wheatgrass, and kelp. This blend contains large servings of essential vitamins and minerals, including vitamin A, vitamin C, and magnesium. Additionally, Good Green Vitality avoids artificial ingredients, additives, and emulsifiers, making it easily digestible and suitable for individuals with allergies or dietary restrictions. Furthermore, Nuzest Good Green Vitality is available at a reasonable price on the Nuzest website, with discounted options available for subscribers.
Why you should pay attention to algae health benefits
In today’s saturated supplement market, many ingredients claim to promote a variety of health benefits. These algae health benefits may surprise you, but they’re easy to appreciate when you examine the evidence. Algae possess a combination of health benefits, including enhanced immune function, improved skin health, and potential anti-cancer properties. Therefore, algae-based superfoods could be a beneficial approach to safeguarding your health.
Further references:
Real Simple – 4 Types of Edible Algae With Superfood Potential
BBC Good Food – Top 5 health benefits of spirulina
Verywell Health – What Is Spirulina?
Psychology Today – Should You Be Taking an Algae Supplement?
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
