Health Benefits of Blue-Green Algae: Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease

Abstract

Blue-green algae (BGA) are among the most primitive life forms on earth and have been consumed as food or medicine by humans for centuries. BGA contain various bioactive components, such as phycocyanin, carotenoids, γ-linolenic acid, fibers, and plant sterols, which can promote optimal health in humans. Studies have demonstrated that several BGA species or their active components have plasma total cholesterol and triglyceride-lowering properties due to their modulation of intestinal cholesterol absorption and hepatic lipogenic gene expression. BGA can also reduce inflammation by inhibiting the nuclear factor κ B activity, consequently reducing the production of proinflammatory cytokines. Furthermore, BGA inhibit lipid peroxidation and have free radical scavenging activity, which can be beneficial for the protection against oxidative stress. The aforementioned effects of BGA can contribute to the prevention of metabolic and inflammatory diseases. This review provides an overview of the current knowledge of the health-promoting functions of BGA against cardiovascular disease and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease, which are major health threats in the developed countries.

A systematic review and meta-analysis of the impact of Spirulina supplementation on plasma lipid concentrations

“…Dietary supplementation with this alga seems to decrease the intestinal assimilation of cholesterol and the reabsorbtion of bile acids in the ileum [39,40]. Spirulina might decrease inflammatory process through suppression of the activity of nuclear factor KB (NF-kB) and decrease of the production of pro-inflammatory cytokines [41,42]. All these biological processes might explain the underlying mechanisms involved in hypolipidemic effects of Spirulina.…”

Functional Dehydrated Foods for Health Preservation

“…Additionally, free radicals induce oxidative stress, which leads to DNA damage and other genetic alterations that may cause cancer if left unrepaired [151,152]. As disease prevention is the key to mitigating the damage caused by these disorders, the consumption of phytochemicals from fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and algae, in foods, may decrease the risk of CVD and stroke [153][154][155][156][157][158].…”

Botanicals and its extracts: Anew drug discovery and development paradigm for chronic and age-related illnesses

“…Several species of algae and microalgae (cyanobacteria) are a rich source of bioactive components that have shown potential for treating diabetes and metabolic syndrome [12]. Spirulina extracts have also shown novel, anti-microbial activity as well as anti-inflammatory properties that can treat mild to severe fungal infections such as onychomycosis [13], viral infections [14] and some effects on the microbiome [15].…”