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E-Green
Algae
Blue-green
algae supplements come in the form of capsules, pills, and powders. An
important part of the food chain in lakes and ponds worldwide, blue-green algae
are microscopic plants with characteristics of both bacteria and algae (such as
seaweed), but are more closely akin to bacteria. The two main blue-green algae
types are Spirulina and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA). AFA is chiefly
harvested from Upper Klamath Lake in southern Oregon, and then
freeze-dried and sold in capsules and other forms. The largest manufacturer is
Cell Tech, which sells its “Super Blue-Green Algae” via thousands of special
distributors.
Blue-green algae contain small amounts of protein,
vitamins (including C, E, and folate), beta carotene, and some minerals. But
unless you eat huge amounts of algae, they are a negligible source of
nutrients. Like green plants, they are rich in chlorophyll, a pigment that
enables them to turn sunlight into energy. But chlorophyll is of no use to the
human body.
Claims, purported benefits: Prevents cancer and
heart disease and boosts immunity. Treats or cures a host of ailments,
including asthma, allergies, anxiety, depression, fatigue, hypoglycemia,
digestive problems, and attention deficit disorder. Helps with weight loss,
improves memory and mental ability, “detoxifies” the body.
Bottom Line: Blue-green algae is not a medicine or
a good source of nutrients. The few nutrients in blue-green algae are more
plentiful and cheaper in foods. There’s no scientific evidence that blue-green
algae can treat or cure any illness or has any health benefit. In a recent
court decision in California, marketers of blue-green algae were told to stop
making health claims. Blue-green algae, especially AFA harvested from natural
lakes, are easily contaminated with toxins such as microcystins and heavy
metals. Because Health Canada, the equivalent of the U.S. FDA, found that some
blue-green algae supplements (but not spirulina) contain high levels of
microcystin, it has warned consumers—especially those thinking of giving AFA to
their children—about potential contamination.