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Spirulina species include a few of the hundreds of species
collectively known as blue-green algae. Because their are a variety
of different type of algae they are classified according to their
color - green, blue-green, yellow-green, red and brown. Similar to
plants algae remove carbon dioxide from the air and release oxygen.
However, algae are able to synthesize and create proteins and sugars
as do animals. Algae multiply very rapidly. The two most common
species of algae used for human consumption are Spirulina maxima and
Spirulina platensis.
Most of the health benefits claimed for
blue-green algae supplementation are supported by anecdotes rather
than scientific evidence. Studies have indicated several properties
of large amounts of spirulina or spirulina extracts, including
antioxidant, antiviral, anticancer, anti-allergy, immune-enhancing,
liver-protecting, blood vessel-relaxing, and blood lipid-lowering
but there is no concrete scientific evidence that can substantiate
these indications.
Some studies indicate that taking
blue-green algae may have a positive effect on both weight loss and
high blood
pressure.
Dosage
Blue-green algae can
be taken as a powder, flakes, capsules, or tablets. A manufacturer’s
recommended intake is 2,000 - 3,000 mg per day divided throughout
the day. However, typical amounts shown to have helpful properties
in animal studies would be equivalent to 34 grams per day or more,
for a 150-pound human.
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