Articles and Studies
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Anti-Aging
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Spirulina Benefits for Skin: Superfood or Super Skin Care?
Spirulina may have anti-aging and anti-inflammatory benefits due to its antioxidants. It fights free radicals, which can prevent skin damage and wrinkles. The main ingredient, phycocyanin, enhances cellular antioxidant activity. Spirulina also provides essential amino acids that help maintain skin firmness and support collagen production.
C-phycocyanin confers protection against oxalate-mediated oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunctions in MDCK cells
Oxalate toxicity causes reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation, linked to mitochondrial dysfunction. This study looked at whether C-phycocyanin (CP) can protect MDCK cells from oxidative stress caused by oxalate. Using DCFDA and HEL as markers, the effects of CP on ROS production and membrane lipid peroxidation were examined. Results showed that oxalate increased ROS and HEL levels, which were reduced by CP. CP also protected mitochondrial function and increased ATP production, suggesting its potential as a treatment for oxidative stress-related conditions like urolithiasis.
Anti-Diabetes
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The effect of spirulina on type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
The study aimed to explore how spirulina affects lipid profiles and blood sugar markers in type 2 diabetes patients. Researchers searched various databases for clinical trials up to August 2020. Eight studies were included in the analysis, showing significant reductions in fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and VLDL levels after spirulina use. HDL-C levels also increased significantly. However, no significant changes were noted in HbA1C or post-prandial blood sugar. The study concludes that spirulina may improve fasting blood glucose and lipid profiles.
Effect of spirulina supplementation on the nutrient adequacy and health status of non-insulin-dependent diabetes mellitus (NIDDM) male subjects
Sixty male diabetic subjects were selected and divided into three groups: E1, E2, and C. E1 and E2 received daily spirulina supplementation for two months, while C received none. There was a significant decrease in nutrient intake for E2, but not for E1 or C. Both E1 and E2 showed improvement in their haematological profiles due to spirulina's rich nutrients. It is suggested that 2g of spirulina can enhance iron status in non-insulin dependent diabetes mellitus subjects.
Role of Spirulina in the Control of Glycemia and Lipidemia in Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus
Spirulina is being recognized as an important therapeutic food due to its high nutrients. This study evaluated Spirulina's effects on blood sugar and lipids in 25 subjects with type 2 diabetes. Participants were randomly assigned to receive Spirulina or serve as a control group. Spirulina was given at 2 g/day for 2 months. Results showed that Spirulina significantly reduced fasting and postprandial blood glucose levels, as well as HbA(1c) levels, indicating better glucose management. It also lowered triglycerides and total cholesterol while slightly increasing HDL cholesterol. Overall, Spirulina helped improve blood glucose and lipid profiles in diabetic subjects.
The effect of spirulina on type 2 diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis
The study aimed to examine how spirulina affects lipid profiles and blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes patients. Researchers searched several databases for clinical trials on spirulina's impact on these markers until August 2020. Eight studies were analyzed, revealing a significant decrease in fasting blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, LDL-C, and VLDL, along with an increase in HDL-C after taking spirulina. However, no significant changes were noted in HbA1C or post-prandial blood sugar levels. The study concludes that spirulina can improve fasting blood glucose and lipid profiles.
Anti-Virus
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Therapeutic Applications of Spirulina Against Human Pathogenic Viruses
Viruses can spread around the world, making it vital to quickly detect new infectious diseases in humans and animals for better surveillance and prevention.Diseases caused by viruses like HIV, swine flu, and influenza are significant problems.Lack of effective antiviral drugs and drug resistance are key challenges in managing these infections.Spirulina, a microalgae consumed safely for centuries, is rich in nutrients and offers health benefits.It contains compounds that may prevent various viruses from spreading and can boost the immune system.This review highlights the antiviral properties and immune-boosting effects of Spirulina as a useful health supplement.
Antiviral potential of spirulina in individuals with human immunodeficiency virus or Hepatis C virus infections: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Spirulina, a type of blue-green algae with antiviral properties, has been studied as a supplement for people infected with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV). It may be especially helpful in low-resource settings while patients wait for antiretroviral therapy (ART). This review assessed how Spirulina affects CD4 T-cell counts and viral load in these patients.
The authors searched various databases and identified 5552 articles, narrowing it down to 44 full-text studies. Ultimately, 6 studies were included in the final analysis, showing that Spirulina significantly improved clinical outcomes. The results indicated a notable decrease in viral load and an increase in CD4 counts. More research with larger clinical trials is needed to explore the full effects and benefits of Spirulina supplementation.
Anti-Inflammatory
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Evaluation of protective efficacy of Spirulina platensis against collagen-induced arthritis in rats
The study aimed to evaluate how well Spirulina platensis protects against collagen-induced arthritis (CIA) in female Wistar rats. Arthritis was caused by injecting collagen and Freund's adjuvant. Rats were treated with Spirulina at doses of 200 and 400 mg per kg for 45 days. The results showed that the higher dose of Spirulina significantly improved serum albumin levels and reduced cholesterol, alkaline phosphatase, acid phosphatase activities, lipid peroxidation, paw thickness, and joint histopathology. It suggests that Spirulina has good protective effects against CIA.
Immunomodulator
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The effects of Spirulina on anemia and immune function in senior citizens
Anemia and immunological issues are common in older people, prompting a search for nutritional solutions. Spirulina, a blue-green alga, may help reduce inflammation and act as an antioxidant. The study hypothesized that Spirulina could improve anemia and immune function in seniors with anemia history. Forty volunteers aged 50 and older participated in a 12-week Spirulina supplementation program, with dietary questionnaires used to track nutrition. Results showed increased mean corpuscular hemoglobin, especially in older women, and higher immune function indicators. Spirulina may benefit anemia and immunosenescence, and larger studies are recommended to further evaluate its effectiveness.
The immune system and happiness
Human emotions, both negative and positive, come from evolution and affect behavior, which is seen in physiological and immune responses. There has been a lot of research on how the immune system and the central nervous system interact in conditions like schizophrenia and depression. However, the effects of positive emotions, especially happiness, on health have not been studied much. Emotions play a role in diseases like cancer and cardiovascular issues. Recent studies show that pleasant emotions can increase certain immune responses and decrease stress levels. More research is needed to understand how positive emotions affect health and immunity.
Antibacterial
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Production and characterization of antimicrobial active substance from Spirulina platensis
The study focused on the ability of Spirulina platensis to create antimicrobial substances against bacteria and fungi.Various extractions were performed, and the purified compound showed effectiveness against a wide range of microorganisms.Analysis techniques, including infrared spectroscopy, 1H NMR, mass spectrometry, and elemental analysis, identified the compound’s characteristics, revealing a molecular formula of C15H18NO8.The antimicrobial compound was particularly active against Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria, with the strongest effects noted against Escherichia coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Bacillus subtilis, and Aspergillus niger.The findings suggest that cyanobacteria can be a valuable source of antimicrobial agents.
Anti-Cancer
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Evaluation of chemoprevention of oral cancer with Spirulina fusiformis
The blue-green microalgae Spirulina is a rich source of proteins and nutrients, used in diets in Africa and America. It showed potential in reducing oral cancer in studies. In a study of tobacco chewers in India, 45% showed complete regression of oral leukoplakia with Spirulina. More research is needed.
Tumor necrosis factor in experimental cancer regression with alphatocopherol, beta-carotene, canthaxanthin and algae extract
The study examined the regression of hamster buccal pouch carcinoma linked to an increase in tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α) in macrophages. Various substances, including alphatocopherol and canthaxanthin, were injected locally, resulting in tumor regression. One hundred and forty male hamsters were divided into seven groups, with some receiving injections of different substances after tumors were induced. After four weeks, tumors in specific groups showed varying regression. A significant increase in TNF-α positive macrophages was observed in several treatment groups, indicating a potential mechanism for tumor destruction.
Prevention of experimental oral cancer by extracts of Spirulina-Dunaliella algae
An extract of Spirulina-Dunaliella algae prevented tumor growth in hamsters when 0. 1% DMBA was applied. The algae was given orally at 140 micrograms three times a week for 28 weeks. While control animals showed tumors, those fed canthaxanthin had fewer and smaller tumors. The algae group had no visible tumors, but some showed early signs of cancer under a microscope.
Regression of experimental hamster cancer by beta carotene and algae extracts
The study examined the impact of algae extract on tumor shrinkage. Phycotene (from Spirulina and Dunaliella) was injected into 20 hamsters with tumors caused by DMBA. Other groups received beta carotene, canthaxanthin, or 13-cis-retinoic acid in the same manner, while two groups served as controls. After four weeks, total tumor regression occurred in 30% of the phycotene group, 20% of the beta carotene group, and 15% of the canthaxanthin group. No regression was seen in the control groups, and 70% of the 13-cis-retinoic acid group had partial regression.
Detoxifying
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Does Spirulina Detox the Body?
Our readers may already know that Spirulina, often called blue-green algae, is one of the most nutrient-rich foods and is widely used as a dietary supplement. It is high in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, earning its place as a superfood.
Spirulina is also recognized for its detoxification benefits, which have gained attention in both nutrition and medicine. This article will discuss Spirulina's detox abilities, reviewing scientific evidence and expert insights on how it helps the body remove toxins, particularly heavy metals.
Interesting facts about Spirulina include that it is one of the oldest life forms and has been consumed by humans for centuries. The Aztecs are believed to have eaten Spirulina sourced from Lake Texcoco in Mexico during the 16th century. It has a high level of nutrients, including protein, B vitamins, vitamin E, minerals like iron and calcium, and essential fatty acids. NASA has stated that 1 kg of Spirulina has the same nutritional value as 1000 kg of fruits and vegetables. Spirulina contains 50% to 70% protein by dry weight, making it one of the most protein-dense foods available. Numerous studies have been conducted on Spirulina, looking into its health benefits, nutritional properties, and possible applications in medicine and industry.
Research generally agrees that Spirulina helps detoxify the body. Several studies show it can effectively assist in removing heavy metals. More limited studies suggest it may also help counteract the toxic effects of various environmental pollutants, although further research is needed to support these claims.
Spirulina detoxifies by chelating heavy metals from the body through specific compounds that bind to heavy metal ions, allowing them to be excreted. The polysaccharides in Spirulina also play a role in this process by binding to heavy metal ions, reducing their absorption in the gut and enhancing their elimination.
Spirulina contains many antioxidants, such as phycocyanin, beta-carotene, and chlorophyll, which help combat oxidative stress caused by toxins. Phycocyanin gives Spirulina its color and works alongside beta-carotene and phenolic acids to neutralize harmful free radicals. Chlorophyll aids in binding toxins and helps with their removal through the gastrointestinal tract.
Moreover, Spirulina supports liver function by enhancing the levels of important enzymes involved in antioxidant defense, protecting liver cells from damage, and improving the liver's detoxification efficiency.
Some precautions should be noted before taking Spirulina. People with phenylketonuria (PKU), autoimmune diseases, thyroid conditions, seafood allergies, those on blood thinners, and pregnant or nursing women should consult a healthcare professional before using it. Spirulina can also absorb toxins from its environment, so it is essential to choose organic products from trusted sources.
Experts have highlighted Spirulina's benefits in detoxifying heavy metals and emphasized the importance of independent lab testing due to concerns about contamination in some Spirulina supplements, particularly those from China.
In conclusion, studies indicate that Spirulina shows potential in removing heavy metals from the body, and while it may help eliminate other toxins, more research is needed. It is advisable to purchase organic Spirulina from reputable manufacturers to avoid contamination risks.
Antioxidant
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Antioxidant and phytonutrient activities of Spirulina platensis
The study looks into the antioxidant potential and phytonutrient content of Spirulina platensis extracts. Spirulina was sourced from a local farm in Pondicherry and cultured in a lab. The research evaluated its antioxidant potential, including enzymes like catalase and SOD, and phytonutrient levels like phenols, flavonoids, and proteins in both aqueous and ethanol extracts. Ethanol extracts showed higher enzymatic activity, while aqueous extracts had more catalase and phenolic compounds. The findings suggest Spirulina could be important for dietary supplements and fighting malnutrition.
The antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory activities of Spirulina: an overview
Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria used as a food supplement, particularly Spirulina platensis and Spirulina maxima. It is valued for its high protein and vitamin content, with potential health benefits related to oxidative stress and immune function. Spirulina has antioxidant, immunomodulatory, and anti-inflammatory properties that may help with diseases like atherosclerosis and heart issues. It activates antioxidant enzymes, reduces DNA damage, and scavenges free radicals. Clinical trials show it prevents muscle damage from exercise and modulates immune responses. The exact molecular mechanisms are unclear, but phycocyanin and β-carotene play key roles. The review suggests future research on Spirulina's therapeutic uses.
In Vitro Evaluation of Antioxidant Activity of Blue Green Algae Spirulina Platensis
The study examined the free radical scavenging ability of blue green algae spirulina platensis using different antioxidant models. Free radicals are linked to over 80 diseases, including diabetes, arthritis, and cancer, making antioxidant therapy important. Spirulina platensis is used in Indian medicine as a health tonic. The in vitro tests showed that the ethanolic extract effectively scavenges DPPH and nitric oxide radicals, indicating its potential as an antioxidant agent against free radical-related diseases.