Should You Trust the Buzz Around Blue-Green Algae? Benefits, Warnings, and EFSA Doubts Explained
What are cyanobacteria?
Cyanobacteria, commonly referred to as blue-green algae, are organisms that inhabit both freshwater and saltwater environments.
What are the applications of blue-green algae?
Blue-green algae serve as a source of protein, B vitamins, and iron. They are advised for weight reduction and to assist with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, allergic rhinitis, diabetes, stress, fatigue, anxiety, depression, and premenstrual syndrome. They are utilized to treat precancerous lesions in the oral cavity, enhance immune system functionality, improve memory, energy, and metabolism, lower cholesterol, prevent heart disease, promote wound healing, and enhance digestion and gastrointestinal health.
In actuality, blue-green algae do not provide superior protein sources compared to other varieties.
Moreover, it seems that the EFSA (European Food Safety Authority) has not sanctioned statements that substantiate the existing ideas for the utilization of blue-green algae and the financial investment in their acquisition.
Warnings and possible contraindications
The use of blue-green algal products may disrupt the efficacy of immunosuppressant medications by enhancing immune system activity, hence diminishing the potency of their active components.
The consumption of blue-green algae is generally regarded as likely safe when derived from sources devoid of impurities, such harmful metals, liver-damaging microcystins, or bacteria. Potential contamination may lead to hepatic damage, abdominal pain, nausea, emesis, weakness, thirst, tachycardia, and shock, culminating in the most severe instances in fatality.
The safety of their consumption during pregnancy and lactation remains unverified; additionally, they may be contraindicated in individuals with autoimmune disorders and phenylketonuria.
