2015;54(2):301-7. In the US, calcium is under-consumed by 30% of men and 60% of women. View abstract. A. Not getting enough calcium can lead to reduced bone strength and osteoporosis. It functions almost like an internal sunscreen. Spirulina can't solve these serious issues. Store spirulina in a cool, dry place. USDA. Detoxification of heavy metals, especially arsenic, Treats metabolic syndrome, which increases the risk of developing diabetes and heart disease, Stomach pain after consuming a large dosage. Consider working with a team that includes a registered dietitian nutritionist (RD or RDN) and perhaps one that's a Board Certified Specialist in Obesity and Weight Management (CSOWM). View abstract. J Nutr 1995;125:2483-92. Leung LY, Chan SM, Tam HL, Wong ES. Depending on the bodys requirements, Astaxanthin can be consumed with chlorella and Spirulina. See additional information. Boswellia may interact with various medications. Spirulina, meanwhile, may increase the number of new neurons that survive while protecting your brain against the inflammation associated with neurodegenerative diseases. Higuera-Ciapara, I., Felix-Valenzuela, L., and Goycoolea, F. M. Astaxanthin: a review of its chemistry and applications. Again, these necessary minerals will compete for absorption by the body, meaning you get less of each when you take them together, warns Dr. Cooperman. Am J Ther 2010;17(2):125-132. Your email address will not be published. Read our, Supplements That Can Interact With Medications, Prenatal Vitamins: Benefits and When You Should Take Them, The 10 Best Collagen Supplements, According to a Dietitian, The 6 Best Supplements for Weight Gain of 2023, According to a Dietitian, Herbs You Should Avoid Mixing With Heart Meds, Before You Buy Magnesium Supplements From TikTok, Heres What You Need to Know, The Top Health Benefits of Stinging Nettle, 5 Supplements You May Need if Youre on the Keto Diet, people take melatonin supplements to help with sleep, Dietary guidelines for Americans 2020-2015, Mixing medications and dietary supplements can endanger your health. I am a chiropractor, father, husband, coach, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker. View abstract. Xia W, Tang N, Kord-Varkaneh H, et al. Mesquite lattes? Spirulina is a blue-green alga that naturally grows in salty lakes and oceans in subtropical climates. Am J Cardiol 5-22-2008;101(10A):20D-29D. Suggested Dose: Dosage varies based on use and product. Find out whichvitamins are a waste of money and could even be dangerous. Last medically reviewed on September 10, 2021. People who labor or exercise in humid climates or have digestive issues can fall short on potassium; if you need to take both supplements, be sure to space them out by a few hours, he advises. Some medications are changed and broken down by the liver. The latter is the most essential carotenoid pigment in aquatic animals, including salmon, trout, and lobster. But taking ashwagandha might interact with a variety of medications including: Taking ashwagandha with antidiabetes drugs meant to lower blood sugar levels could increase the risk of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia). FASEB J 2009;23(6):1958-1968. Unfortunately, very few well-conducted human studies have looked at spirulina's effects on cancer. Karkos PD, Leong SC, Karkos CD, Sivaji N, Assimakopoulos DA. They found that spirulina reduced total cholesterol (by 46.76 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL)), low-density lipoprotein (LDL by 41.32 milligrams per deciliter), and triglycerides (by 44.23 milligrams per deciliter). View abstract. Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or healthcare provider. Numerous Reasons to Never Use Your Microwave Oven Again! In essence, the minerals compete with one another and both lose out. Bioorg.Med Chem Lett 8-2-2004;14(15):3985-3991. Keep in mind that even certified products may not be completely free of contaminants, as dietary supplements are largely unregulated in the United States. There is some evidence that taking high amounts of vitamin C (over 1,500mg) can reduce copper absorption. From a wearable mask to a Japanese fad diet, science is finding ever more uses for algae. By clicking Accept All Cookies, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. A supplement may be called for if there is insufficient dietary intake of the mineral. Possible Interactions with: Spirulina Arthrospira plantensis; Blue-green Algae; Spirulina; Spirulina fusiformis; Spirulina maxima; Spirulina platensis There are no reports in the scientific literature to suggest that spirulina interacts with any conventional medications. A healthcare provider can help assess your regimen. Further information. Some of the side effects people may experience after consuming these microbes are: Just like any other product, some precautions should be considered before consuming Spirulina and Astaxanthin. Information from this source is evidence-based and objective, and without commercial influence. Astaxanthin supplement at 3.6 mg per day can be beneficial to health as reported by Iwamoto et al. Blood thinners: While there are only about 0.26 micrograms of vitamin K in each gram of spirulina, taking far larger amounts could theoretically impact the blood-thinning effects of some medicines like Jantoven (warfarin). To create the synergistic algae blend, LLS Health teamed with Neoalgae Micro Seaweeds Products, SL, a research and development company in Spain dedicated to microalgae biotechnology. As with all supplements, talking with your healthcare provider before using spirulina to decide if it's right for you is essential. View abstract. Find your people. Effect of the oral intake of astaxanthin on semen parameters in patients with oligo-astheno-teratozoospermia: a randomized double-blind placebo-controlled trial. As a general guideline, don't use more than what's listed on your product's label. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Astaxanthin - WebMD Melatonin: What you need to know. This situation can be dire for people coping with type I or II diabetes, eating disorders (including diabulimia), and more. Astaxanthin supplementation does not augment fat use or improve endurance performance. National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. What Are Spirulina and Astaxanthin? - My Nutrigene Spirulina is a blue-green algae from the genus Arthrospira ("arthro" roughly means "joint," and "spira" means "spiral"). View abstract. Lets delve into two dietary supplements: Astaxanthin and Spirulina. Going Green: Pros and Cons of a Plant-Based Diet for Weight Loss, Nutrition, and More, Carb Pairing: 10 Best Food Combinations For Weight Loss, Might Lower Your Chance of Getting Macular Degeneration, Side Effects of Spirulina and Astaxanthin, Precautions When Taking Spirulina and Astaxanthin, What to Consider Before Buying Astaxanthin and Spirulina FAQS. is that taking spirulina supplements is not harmful. View abstract. For example, St. Johns wort may cause fever, confusion, and anxiety if its taken with other antidepressants. Antitumor activity of astaxanthin and its mode of action. Blue-green algae species used in spirulina supplements are typically Spirulina maxima, Spirulina platensis, or Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. As a supplement, its touted for its antibacterial, antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, immune-boosting, and cholesterol-lowering potential (4). The main sources of commercial Astaxanthin are Haematococcus, Phaffia yeast, and chemical synthesis. Earnest CP, Lupo M, White KM, Church TS. Human research has shown that ashwagandha can stimulate the immune system. and Astaxanthin sourced from Haematococcus Pluvialis can be consumed. The lengths of the studies were anywhere from two to 12 weeks, and many were pretty small, meaning they might not be able to tell us very much. Yuan, J. P., Peng, J., Yin, K., and Wang, J. H. Potential health-promoting effects of astaxanthin: a high-value carotenoid mostly from microalgae. Astaxanthin - Nootropics Expert 2015;15(2):145-150. doi:10.7861/clinmedicine.15-2-145, Baltrusch S. The role of neurotropic B vitamins in nerve regeneration. Because your body needs B12 to make red blood cells. Compared to other foods, these microorganisms are rich in bioactive substances, such as polyunsaturated fatty acids and high-value pigments. Nutrients. Parisi V, Tedeschi M, Gallinaro G, et al. Denise Mann, MS Updated: May 14, 2021 Medically reviewed by Oscar H. Cingolani, MD Millions of us take vitamins, minerals, and other supplements daily to improve our health and well-beingbut taking certain pills together can create a dangerous mix. Suganuma, K., Nakajima, H., Ohtsuki, M., and Imokawa, G. Astaxanthin attenuates the UVA-induced up-regulation of matrix-metalloproteinase-1 and skin fibroblast elastase in human dermal fibroblasts. By Regina C. Windsor, MPH, RDN It may provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting benefits. Okada, Y., Ishikura, M., and Maoka, T. Bioavailability of astaxanthin in Haematococcus algal extract: the effects of timing of diet and smoking habits. These foods don't have to be organic. Astaxanthin: Sources, Extraction, Stability, Biological Activities and Required fields are marked *. Bethesda (MD): National Library of Medicine (US); 2021. Zinc decreased the absorption and action of penicillamine, which is used to treat rheumatoid arthritis. Believe it or not, vitamin K is one of the nutrients even nutritionists dont get enough of. 230, a Provision of the Communication Decency Act. This can cause serotonin syndrome and in severe cases, it may lead to muscle rigidity and seizures, he says. J Nat Prod 2006;69(3):443-449. Biochem.Biophys.Res.Commun. You'll likely need to look elsewhere for your B12 needs, especially if you follow a vegetarian or vegan way of eating, which can be low in B12. When an autoimmune issue at 33 affected my life, I started a lifelong journey to get myself and my family into health. 2023 Dotdash Media, Inc. All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. (Spirulina)With potential anticancer activities: a systematic review. Among zincs many benefits, enhanced immunity ranks high. Vitamins and Supplements That Should Not Be Taken Together . Int J Sport Nutr Exerc Metab 2005;15:401-12. It's also a source of protein, but it lacks high enough levels of some of the amino acids that your body needs to function at its best (unless you have a medical condition where you need to avoid specific amino acids, like phenylketonuria or "PKU"). J.Dermatol.Sci. Spirulina contains several nutrients: fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, and K), fatty acids (DHA, EPA), beta-carotene, and minerals. View abstract. Yamashita E. The effect of a dietary supplement containing astaxanthin on skin condition. It can be found in foods like milk, yogurt, and cheese. View abstract. Lignell, . Cancer Heart disease Eye diseases like cataracts and macular degeneration Alzheimer's disease Parkinson's disease Astaxanthin can also reduce inflammation. 2017;48:40-48. Effects of Spirulina supplementation on obesity: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials. Animal and human studies show that this effect may help slow tumor growth, improve resistance to illness, and decrease inflammation (10, 11, 12, 13). There is animal research that suggests that ashwagandha may lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure, putting people who take blood pressure-lowering medication at risk for hypotension, blood pressure that is too low. Phycocyanins have been used as a dye in many industries, including pharmacy, culinary, and cosmetics. It contains fat-soluble vitamins A, E, and K, fatty acids, beta-carotene, minerals, and essential nutrients like iron, calcium, magnesium, sodium, and potassium. Moradi S, Ziaei R, Foshati S, Mohammadi H, Nachvak SM, Rouhani MH. Kang JO, Kim SJ, Kim H. Effect of astaxanthin on the hepatotoxicity, lipid peroxidation and antioxidative enzymes in the liver of CCl4-treated rats. Iron is a mineral that is an essential part of red blood cells that transfers oxygen from the lungs to the tissues. Summary Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that people can take as a dietary supplement. The Beneficial Effects of Astaxanthin on Glucose Metabolism and Modified Low-Density Lipoprotein in Healthy Volunteers and Subjects with Prediabetes. United states pharmacopeia safety evaluation of spirulina. Panminerva Med 2010;52:49-54. Both Spirulina and Astaxanthin have numerous benefits. BMC.Nephrol. It's important to note that obesity can be closely tied to the determinants of health and health disparities which are also essential to address. Have you ever gotten a jittery feeling after eating sugary food? View abstract. A systems-oriented thinker with a passion for exploration and connection. U.S. Department of Agriculture. Administration of natural astaxanthin increases serum HDL-cholesterol and adiponectin in subjects with mild hyperlipidemia. You should also talk to your provider about the supplements you take if you recently had or will soon be having surgery. It's been touted to help improve mental alertness, alleviate digestive symptoms and headaches, and protect against cancer and heart disease. Positive effects of astaxanthin on lipid profiles and oxidative stress in overweight subjects. Seaweed is highly nutritious and an increasingly popular ingredient in cuisines all over the world. Jyonouchi, H., Zhang, L., Gross, M., and Tomita, Y. Immunomodulating actions of carotenoids: enhancement of in vivo and in vitro antibody production to T-dependent antigens. Why Getting Water from a Spring Doesnt Make Sense, Dr. Mercola appeared on Dr. Oz.s television program, Astaxanthin is derived from the micro-algae Haematococcus pluvialis, Benefits of Drinking Water on an Empty Stomach. There is also some clinical research that suggests that melatonin can increase the frequency of seizures, especially children with neurological impairment. The most potent antioxidant discovered by humans in nature is, by far, Astaxanthin. You need iron to help distribute oxygen to cellsits vital for your energy. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances. View abstract. 9-28-2009;283(1):108-117. View abstract. 2020;161:105113. View abstract. View abstract. Comhaire FH, El Garem Y, Mahmoud A, et al. Required fields are marked *. Atherosclerosis 2010;209:520-23. Taking around 40 grams per day for an unknown period has been noted. View abstract. Chronic inflammation, on the other hand, can contribute to conditions like diabetes, cancer and heart disease.. J.Atheroscler.Thromb. View abstract. J Clin Biochem Nutr. It is advised to take Spirulina in the evening before a meal. Ginkgo biloba, fish oil, ginger, feverfew, vitamin E, and white willow bark are also on the list. While we all strive to eat a well-balanced diet, our active lifestyles and easy access to processed food often prevent us from getting all the nutrition we need to maintain our health. Before you turn your nose up, check out the incredible health benefits of these and seven more unusual ingredients. These include melatonin, valerian, ashwagandha, kava, and St. Johnss Wort: When taken together, they can cause too much sleepiness, Dr. Cooperman says. The hepatoprotective and hypolipidemic effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) supplementation in a Cretan population with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: a prospective pilot study. Supplement Facts Active Ingredient (s): Phycocyanins, fatty acids, protein, vitamins, minerals Alternate Name (s): Blue-green algae, dih (Chadic language, Africa), tecuitlatl (Aztec) 7 Legal Status: "Grandfathered" dietary ingredient (legally marketed before 1994) 1 View abstract. Carcinogenesis 1994;15:15-9. Ito N, Seki S, Ueda F. The protective role of astaxanthin for UV-induced skin deterioration in healthy people-A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Effects of 3-Month Astaxanthin Supplementation on Cardiac Function in Heart Failure Patients with Left Ventricular Systolic Dysfunction-A Pilot Study.Nutrients. Tanaka T, Morishita Y, Suzui M, et al. McNulty, H., Jacob, R. F., and Mason, R. P. Biologic activity of carotenoids related to distinct membrane physicochemical interactions. The algae may harbor toxins if it grows in a body of water thats polluted with heavy metals, bacteria, or harmful particles called microcystins (2). Ikeda, Y., Tsuji, S., Satoh, A., Ishikura, M., Shirasawa, T., and Shimizu, T. Protective effects of astaxanthin on 6-hydroxydopamine-induced apoptosis in human neuroblastoma SH-SY5Y cells. View abstract. View abstract. Spirulina decreased weight in people with obesity by 4.55 pounds and in those who were overweight by 2.82 pounds. An allergic reaction may be possible in those allergic to spirulina. If you experience side effects, stop using spirulina, and contact your healthcare provider immediately. Manabe, E., Handa, O., Naito, Y., Mizushima, K., Akagiri, S., Adachi, S., Takagi, T., Kokura, S., Maoka, T., and Yoshikawa, T. Astaxanthin protects mesangial cells from hyperglycemia-induced oxidative signaling. Astaxanthin is a member of the xanthophyll subclass. Kishimoto, Y., Tani, M., Uto-Kondo, H., Iizuka, M., Saita, E., Sone, H., Kurata, H., and Kondo, K. Astaxanthin suppresses scavenger receptor expression and matrix metalloproteinase activity in macrophages. Part 182 -- Substances Generally Recognized As Safe. National Institutes of Health National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health. The Future of Food: Growing Your Own Algae? View abstract. Carotenoids are advantageous for immune and eye health. Title 21. When you visit the site, Dotdash Meredith and its partners may store or retrieve information on your browser, mostly in the form of cookies. There've been several studies on test tube cells or animals that aren't humans. Iron supplements are typically recommended for people who have iron-deficiency anemia, cancer, and certain gastrointestinal disorders, as well as for those who are pregnant. 2003;21(5):210-216. The effects of supplements vary from person to person and depend on many variables, including type, dosage, frequency of use, and interactions with current medications. Br J Nutr 2011;105(11):1563-1571. da Silva G, da Silva ALF, de Lima LRA, Bezerra RP, de AV Marques D. Bioactive compounds ofarthrospiraspp. Omega-3 fish oil supplements may tame inflammation and improve your mood, but when you take these supplements with herbs that thin the bloodsuch as ginkgo biloba or garlicthey may prevent clotting and can lead to uncontrolled bleeding, Dr. Cooperman says. 2023 Healthline Media LLC. Supplements can have health benefits, but they may also have health risks. For example, sometimes the ingredients in certain supplements can alter lab tests. RDs/RDNs can help you build your toolkit and capacity to avoid spikes in your blood sugar, which could help you feel better. View abstract. Astaxanthin influence on health outcomes of adults at risk of metabolic syndrome: A systematic review and meta-analysis. However, clinically speaking, this is not enough to make a solid recommendation for using spirulina for obesity treatment. Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Tanaka T, Makita H, Oshnishi M, et al. If you have an autoimmune condition, you should avoid spirulina and other algae supplements (2). Antioxidants can counteract the skin stress caused by free radicals. View abstract. Invest Ophthalmol.Vis.Sci 2003;44(6):2694-2701. 9 Impressive Health Benefits of Chlorella, 7 Surprising Health Benefits of Eating Seaweed, 9 Ingredients You May Not Have Heard Of, But Should Add to Your Next Meal, 40 Sources of Lysine to Add to Your Plate. Fassett, R. G. and Coombes, J. S. Astaxanthin, oxidative stress, inflammation and cardiovascular disease. An upper limit or recommended intake is lacking for spirulina. Activate and Energize Your Pineal Gland with MAGNETS, ProbioZyme: Fortified Blend of Probiotics and Digestive Enzymes. Coral-Hinostroza, G. N., Ytrestoyl, T., Ruyter, B., and Bjerkeng, B. Briviba, K., Bornemann, R., and Lemmer, U. Visualization of astaxanthin localization in HT29 human colon adenocarcinoma cells by combined confocal resonance Raman and fluorescence microspectroscopy. Mashhadi NS, Zakerkish M, Mohammadiasl J, Zarei M, Mohammadshahi M, Haghighizadeh MH. Read our. Interactions between antidiabetic drugs and herbs: an overview of mechanisms of action and clinical implications. To be safe, split them up by at least two hours. More high-quality studies are needed before healthcare providers recommend spirulina to lower blood sugar and insulin levels. Dietary supplements are minimally regulated by the FDA and may or may not be suitable for you. In fact, microcystins are produced by blue-green algae as a defense mechanism against predators. If you are one of the 95 million Americans with high cholesterol, you might like the idea of taking a natural supplement to lower your levels. Sekikawa T, Kizawa Y, Li Y, Takara T. Cognitive function improvement with astaxanthin and tocotrienol intake: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. I am vegan. Taking St. John's wort with certain antidepressants can lead to an increase in serotonin levels that can be life threatening. Serban MC, Sahebkar A, Dragan S, et al. Can I Consume Astaxanthin and Spirulina Together? This article lists 9 impressive health benefits of chlorella supplements. 230): No provider or user of an interactive computer service shall be treated as the publisher or speaker of any information provided by another information content provider. J Sports Med Phys Fitness. Antimicrob.Agents Chemother. Make sure you know thesuper-important questions to ask before you take prescription medications. 2021;75(10):e14618. Because it packs 60% protein by weight as well as various vitamins and minerals its widely used as a food source in certain parts of Mexico and Africa (1). Having low levels of magnesium has been associated with heart disease, diabetes, and osteoporosis (brittle bones). View abstract. This blue-green algae's been studied for blood sugar controland more. Both have numerous health promoting effects. This is one of the more common food-drug reactions. View abstract. 2018;10(7). When the data were pooled (put together) and analyzed from these studies, the scientists said that spirulina lowered systolic blood pressure by about 4.59 millimeters of mercury (mmHg) and diastolic blood pressure by 7.02 millimeters of mercury. Potential adverse effects of melatonin include headache, dizziness, nausea, and sleepiness. View abstract. Thus, you should avoid spirulina if you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners. Some people need to take copper due to conditions that cause copper deficiency. Effect of antioxidants on the immune response of Helicobacter pylori. The scientists also said more high-quality studies are needed before we can start recommending that everyone with high blood pressure needs to start eating spirulina. There are two types of inflammation - regular and silent. Others may require additional monitoring or dosage changes. However, more well-constructed studies looking at its impact on humans are needed. In severe cases, reactions can be fatal (20). Benefits of Slow Eating Why Slow Eating Is the Secret to Better Health? View abstract. The retina contains two of the most prevalent carotenoids, lutein, and zeaxanthin, which lowers your risk of macular degeneration. Here are the combos you should avoid. It might be useful as a treatment for. Natural Medicines Database. Nutrients 2021;13(12):4381. J Am Coll Nutr. People take vitamin C supplements for various reasons, including to help fight infection, reduce pain after surgery, or lower blood pressure. View abstract. The Vegan Diet: Everything You Need to Know About Plant-Based Foods, Everything You Need to Know About Cardamom, Everything You Need to Know About L-Arginine. Zhang, X., Zhao, W. E., Hu, L., Zhao, L., and Huang, J. Carotenoids inhibit proliferation and regulate expression of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor gamma (PPARgamma) in K562 cancer cells. Fassett, R. G. and Coombes, J. S. Astaxanthin: a potential therapeutic agent in cardiovascular disease. Biosci.Biotechnol.Biochem 2007;71(4):893-899. Whats more, this algae may worsen some autoimmune conditions and thin your blood. Chalyk NE, Klochkov VA, Bandaletova TY, Kyle NH, Petyaev IM. That's because taking the calcium supplement during a meal could negatively affect how much dietary magnesium is being taken in. 2007;37(6):519-532. Matthews J, Herat L, Rooney J, Rakoczy E, Schlaich M, Matthews VB. Safety Considerations: Boswellia is likely safe, and side effects are typically minimal. Lee, D. H., Kim, C. S., and Lee, Y. J. Astaxanthin protects against MPTP/MPP+-induced mitochondrial dysfunction and ROS production in vivo and in vitro. Spiller, G. A. and Dewell, A. Belcaro G, Cesarone MR, Cornelli U, et al. Read More Does Bone Broth for Weight Loss Works?Continue, Read More Lose Weight and Feel Great with These Zero Calorie Foods ListContinue, Read More Eat Your Way to a Flat Belly: 32 Foods That Burn Belly Fat FastContinue, Read More Functional Diagnostic Nutrition For Optimal Wellness: Discover The Benefits Of FDN For Your HealthContinue, Read More Benefits of Slow Eating Why Slow Eating Is the Secret to Better Health?Continue, Read More Going Green: Pros and Cons of a Plant-Based Diet for Weight Loss, Nutrition, and MoreContinue, Read More Carb Pairing: 10 Best Food Combinations For Weight LossContinue, Read More Gut Cleanse Meal Plan For A WeekContinue, Please enable JavaScript in your browser to submit the form. Brain Res 2-13-2009;1254:18-27. 2010;75(2):154-161. Rao, A. R., Sarada, R., Baskaran, V., and Ravishankar, G. A. Antioxidant activity of Botryococcus braunii extract elucidated in vitro models.