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Blue-Green Algae

In their search for healthy foods, human beings have swallowed a lot of odd things—from oysters to kiwifruit—that must have required a certain courage to bite into for the first time. Lately some people have been swallowing capsules, pills, and powders containing what is basically pond scum: algae, the green and blue-green varieties. We get a lot of questions about blue-green algae because it’s supposed to be so nutritious and has been promoted to treat or cure a host of ailments, including asthma, allergies, anxiety, depression, fatigue, hypoglycemia, digestive problems, and attention deficit disorder, and even help with weight loss, improve memory and mental ability, “detoxify” the body, and boost the immune system. Whenever it’s claimed that a food or supplement has such a wide range of curative powers, you should be skeptical—and keep an eye on your wallet.

Skimming for profits

An important part of the food chain in lakes and ponds worldwide, blue-green algae are microscopic plants with characteristics of both bacteria and algae (such as seaweed), but are more closely akin to bacteria. The two main blue-green types are Spirulina and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA). AFA is chiefly harvested from Upper Klamath Lake in southern Oregon and then freeze-dried and sold in capsules and other forms. The largest manufacturer is Cell Tech, which sells its “Super Blue Green Algae” via thousands of special distributors.

Blue-green algae contain small amounts of protein, vitamins (including C, E, and folate), beta carotene, and some minerals. But unless you eat huge amounts of algae, they are a negligible source of nutrients. Like green plants, they are rich in chlorophyll, a pigment that enables them to turn sunlight into energy, but is of no use to the human body. Given the high price of algae supplements, there are far cheaper and better ways to get nutrients.

As for the medical claims, there’s no scientific evidence that blue-green algae can treat or cure any illness or has any health benefit. The “studies” often cited by the marketers do not support the claims. Don’t fall for the testimonials. In a recent court decision in California, marketers of blue-green algae were told to stop making health claims.

Words to the wise: A big concern with blue-green algae, especially AFA harvested from natural lakes, is that they are easily contaminated with toxic substances, notably microcystins and heavy metals. Because Health Canada, the equivalent of the U.S. FDA, found that some blue-green algae supplements (but not spirulina) contain high levels of microcystin, it has warned consumers—especially those thinking of giving AFA to their children—about potential contamination. The marketers, of course, deny that there are any risks.

Note on green algae: Many health claims are also made for green algae, especially chlorella. There’s no convincing evidence that chlorella benefits humans in any way. If you want to try sea vegetables, try some of the seaweed products found in Asian and other specialty markets, as well as in some restaurants.

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