How Is Blue-Green Algae Cultivated?
Most blue-green algae products include Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, which is primarily harvested from Upper Klamath Lake in southern Oregon. The harvesting takes place from June to November, during the summer months. The algae is meticulously filtered to select only the most vibrant blooms, followed by further purification through centrifugation. This AFA is then chilled and either sold frozen or dried at low temperatures and sold as a powder.
Natural Compounds in Organic Blue-Green Algae
Blue-green algae is composed of 70% vegetable protein and boasts higher levels of beta-carotene compared to broccoli. What makes blue-green algae exceptionally potent is its high concentration of nutrients—over 65 vitamins, minerals, and enzymes. It contains the complete spectrum of eight essential amino acids and ten nonessential amino acids, all of which are easily absorbed by the body. Remarkably, up to 97% of the beneficial nutrients in blue-green algae are absorbed, in contrast to some supplements that only have a 5-25% absorption rate. Additionally, AFA has the most biologically active chlorophyll among known foods.
Antioxidant Activity of Blue-Green Algae
Aphanizomenon flos-aquae is rich in compounds that act as antioxidants. The “oxygen radical absorbance capacity” (ORAC) is a measurement used to determine the ability of foods and substances to scavenge free radicals. Italy’s University of Urbino Carlo Bo applied the ORAC method to edible AFA, with positive results supporting AFA’s use as a dietary antioxidant supplement to reduce oxidative stress.
In another study by the University of Urbino Carlo B, researchers evaluated AFA’s capacity to mitigate oxidative damage in normal human red blood cells and plasma. The results indicated that AFA reduced oxidative damage in both, and also delayed the depletion of beneficial enzymes. A Japanese study further found that a product containing blue-green algae from Lake Klamath showed significant antioxidant activity and acted as an adaptogen, helping the body adapt to and protect against stressors.
Blue-Green Algae & B12
There is some debate over whether AFA is an effective source of vitamin B12, as many natural sources of B12 are biologically inadequate. However, preliminary research by Italy’s Department of Neurorehabilitation at Villa Salus Hospital assessed the vitamin B12 levels in 15 vegan subjects who supplemented with an algae product from Lake Klamath. The study found that their B12 levels increased compared to a control group. While not conclusive, this research suggests that AFA could be a reliable source of vitamin B12.
Blue-Green Algae & Stem Cells
In adults, stem cells are responsible for repairing damaged cells. Unfortunately, as we age, the restorative ability of stem cells declines, making them more susceptible to oxidative stress and reducing the body’s ability to repair itself. Based on previous studies showing that blue-green algae could modulate immune function in animals, the Department of Neurosurgery at USF investigated the effects of AFA on cultured human stem cells. Preliminary results suggested that an ethanol extract of AFA might promote the proliferation of human stem cells.
Potential Concerns About Blue-Green Algae
While blue-green algae are commonly consumed in the United States, Canada, and Europe, concerns have been raised regarding the potential presence of microcystin, a toxic byproduct. In response, the Oregon Health Division and the Oregon Department of Agriculture have established regulatory limits on the microcystin content in blue-green algae products. Some research has also suggested a correlation between beta-methylamino-L-alanine (BMAA) — an amino acid produced by blue-green algae — and certain neurodegenerative conditions.
As with most supplements, if you’re pregnant or nursing, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider before supplementing with blue-green algae.
