Algae Food Products as a Healthcare Solution

Abstract

Diseases such as obesity; cardiovascular diseases such as high blood pressure, myocardial infarction and stroke; digestive diseases such as celiac disease; certain types of cancer and osteoporosis are related to food. On the other hand, as the world’s population increases, the ability of the current food production system to produce food consistently is at risk. As a result, intensive agriculture has contributed to climate change and a major environmental impact. Research is, therefore, needed to find new sustainable food sources. One of the most promising sources of sustainable food raw materials is macroalgae. Algae are crucial to solving this nutritional deficiency because they are abundant in bioactive substances that have been shown to combat diseases such as hyperglycemia, diabetes, obesity, metabolic disorders, neurodegenerative diseases and cardiovascular diseases. Examples of these substances include polysaccharides such as alginate, fucoidan, agar and carrageenan; proteins such as phycobiliproteins; carotenoids such as β-carotene and fucoxanthin; phenolic compounds; vitamins and minerals. Seaweed is already considered a nutraceutical food since it has higher protein values than legumes and soy and is, therefore, becoming increasingly common. On the other hand, compounds such as polysaccharides extracted from seaweed are already used in the food industry as thickening agents and stabilizers to improve the quality of the final product and to extend its shelf life; they have also demonstrated antidiabetic effects. Among the other bioactive compounds present in macroalgae, phenolic compounds, pigments, carotenoids and fatty acids stand out due to their different bioactive properties, such as antidiabetics, antimicrobials and antioxidants, which are important in the treatment or control of diseases such as diabetes, cholesterol, hyperglycemia and cardiovascular diseases. That said, there have already been some studies in which macroalgae (red, green and brown) have been incorporated into certain foods, but studies on gluten-free products are still scarce, as only the potential use of macroalgae for this type of product is considered. Considering the aforementioned issues, this review aims to analyze how macroalgae can be incorporated into foods or used as a food supplement, as well as to describe the bioactive compounds they contain, which have beneficial properties for human health. In this way, the potential of macroalgae-based products in eminent diseases, such as celiac disease, or in more common diseases, such as diabetes and cholesterol complications, can be seen.

Inhibition of Proliferation and Induction of Apoptosis in Prostatic Carcinoma DU145 Cells by Polysaccharides from Yunnan Rosa roxburghii Tratt

“…Plant polysaccharides, as active ingredients extracted from these plants, have garnered research interest due to their non-toxic nature and affordability. Extensive research has highlighted the therapeutic potential of polysaccharides, positioning them as valuable additives in food and nutritional products [53][54][55], thus augmenting their commercial value.…”

Marine-Derived Anticancer Agents Targeting Apoptotic Pathways: Exploring the Depths for Novel Cancer Therapies

“…Sulfated polysaccharides are essential anticancer macromolecules with a wide range of industrial, biological, and medicinal uses [ 202 , 203 ]. The sulfated polysaccharide fucoidan 33 ( Figure 7 ) is found in the cell surface of brown seaweeds, comprising 5 to 20% of the algae’s dry weight [ 204 ].…”

“…The sulfated polysaccharide fucoidan 33 ( Figure 7 ) is found in the cell surface of brown seaweeds, comprising 5 to 20% of the algae’s dry weight [ 204 ]. Fucose and sulfate are the main structural components of the water-soluble polymer 33 , whose structural moieties and branching chains vary depending on the species of algae that was recovered [ 203 , 205 ]. Compound 33 is a key marine algal polysaccharide (MAP) that exhibits remarkable anticancer mechanisms to supplement combination chemotherapy [ 206 ].…”

Beneficial Japanese Seasoning Sprinkle (Furikake) Leading to Satisfactory Cuisine and Life

“…In Japanese nursing homes, residents often gather around a table to share meals. A large furikake bottle is frequently placed on the table, allowing everyone to use it freely [14]. This provides elderly individuals with trace elements such as Fe, Zn, Mg, and Mn, contributing to increased appetite, fostering mutual conversation, and promoting both physical and mental health.…”