Spirulina benefits in the treatment of Melasma in the following ways: 1. Ⓒ 2020 About, Inc. (Dotdash) — All rights reserved, Verywell Health uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. For both chlorella and spirulina, some of the most common side effects you hear about are diarrhea/constipation, flatulence, green discoloration of the stools, stomach cramping, and nausea. Even skin tone and texture – it contains vitamin B-12, vitamin A, vitamin E, phosphorus, and iron – all the elements that are vital for the health of the skin. Similarly, spirulina may slow blood clotting and hence take it along with anticoagulants may increase the chances of bruising and bleeding. Nutr Cancer. If you take spirulina, it could cause certain side effects, including nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, thirst, weakness, rapid heartbeat, liver damage or shock. Spirulina poses no dangers when taken in the recommended dosage. While some studies suggest that spirulina does not affect blood clotting time, little is known about its effects on people who are already taking blood thinners (18, 19). If you’re unsure whether this supplement is right for you, consult your medical practitioner. Among proponents, spirulina has been used to support a number of health conditions, including fatigue, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and viral infections. As with anything, spirulina has a few side effects to be aware of. Side Effects. To be safe, those with allergies should avoid this supplement or consult their healthcare provider before using it (21). Another symptom of spirulina’s colon cleansing ability is that as the toxins are removed, they cause problems on the skin surface, leading to breakouts, rashes, redness and mild itching. Although few adverse effects are associated with the use of spirulina, consuming spirulina may cause headaches, allergic reactions, muscle pain, sweating, and insomnia in some cases. Most people who suffered serious side effects after taking spirulina were also taking another medication for a serious health condition; spirulina may, therefore, interact with some drugs and diseases . These can be taken together. Detoxifying nature of spirulina assists to decrease dark circles by getting rid of darkness around your eyes. Spirulina is blue-green algae that thrives in warm climates in warm alkaline water. Although widely considered safe, spirulina has several potential side effects. It's possible that spirulina grown in the wild can absorb toxins from water, such as microcystins (known to cause severe liver damage), pollutants, and heavy metals. Here are 7 science-backed benefits of eating…, Your body can also make arginine in addition to getting it from food sources, so deficiencies are rare. 14.5g for a 200lb person. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that contains a number of nutrients, including B vitamins, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. Spirulina also contains antioxidants, minerals, chlorophyll, and phycocyanobilin and is commonly used as a source of vegan protein. If you have an autoimmune condition, you should avoid spirulina and other algae supplements (2). These ingredients are widely popular for their anti-aging effects. It may provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting benefits. As with all supplements, it is important to examine the "Supplement Facts" label on any product that you buy. Studies have determined that spirulina is an effective source of dietary vitamin A. Spirulina may be contaminated with harmful compounds, thin your blood, and worsen autoimmune conditions. Can the Poria Mushroom Strengthen Your Immune System? Weigh chlorella and spirulina side effects against possible benefits. People with allergies to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid spirulina. All rights reserved. What are the side effects of blue green algae (Spirulina sp.)-oral? What Is Chlorella? When taking the recommended dose, there are no dangers to your health. Consuming spirulina is one way to supplement protein and vitamins in people’s diets without notable side effects. When consumed in high amounts, they’re toxic to your liver (5). Can N-Acetylcysteine Treat COPD, Diabetes, and Infertility? The result is healthy and glowing skin. Spirulina offers several benefits to the skin; it can help decrease inflammation, improve tone, encourage cell turnover, and more. Complementary and alternative medicine for allergic rhinitis. It’s also commercially produced for use in food and supplements (1, 2). Meredith Bull, ND, is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a private practice in Los Angeles. Can Taking a D-Ribose Supplement Rev Up Your Energy? Most spirulina sold in the United States is grown in laboratories. Some people may be allergic to spirulina. Spirulina that is useful for your health also helpful for skin care. Spirulina’s effect on the immune system is well known and this turns into spirulina side effects for someone on immunosuppressants. It's available dried and freeze-dried, in powder, pills or as flakes. Eur Rev Med Pharmacol Sci. If you have a thyroid condition, an autoimmune disorder, gout, kidney stones, phenylketonuria, or are pregnant or nursing, spirulina may not be appropriate for you. Keep in mind that even certified products may not be completely free of contaminants, as dietary supplements are largely unregulated in the United States. Spirulina blue-green alga helps in inhibiting cancer cells. Spirulina bolsters your immune system by strengthening immune cells called natural killer (NK) cells, which attack perceived threats on a cellular level (10). 1. This label will contain vital information, including the amount of active ingredients per serving and any other ingredients that might be in the product. Potential side effects of spirulina There may be a slight plant flavour to spirulina powder, so some choose to take it in a pill form instead. It is rich green, which comes from its high chlorophyll content – which is good news. Spirulina grows in warm climates and warm alkaline water, making it susceptible to contamination with heavy metals and toxic substances. If you have a thyroid condition, an autoimmune disorder, gout, kidney stones, phenylketonuria (PKU), or are pregnant or nursing, spirulina may not be appropriate for you. Spirulina benefits also included a decrease in inflammation and, for some people, a decrease in blood pressure and cholesterol.. Do Agaricus Mushrooms Have Health Benefits? 2008 Winter;2(4):295-300. A randomized study to establish the effects of spirulina in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. People in these circumstances often experience headaches, intestinal gas, and constipation; fever and nausea are also common. You should avoid spirulina if you take blood thinners or have an autoimmune condition, bleeding disorder, allergies, or PKU. Spirulina is about 20% C-phycocyanin by weight, and about 1% phycocyanobilin by weight. Percocets: Given that spirulina is a food supplement from a cyanobacteria there are no additive effects with percocet. Park HJ, Lee YJ, Ryu HK, Kim MH, Chung HW, Kim WY. Some people may experience abdominal discomfort when starting to integrate chlorella, notes Shapiro, so it is best to start slowly; introduce a small … Slight body risk or skin itching; Danger of Spirulina. Cathy Wong is a nutritionist and wellness expert. Our website services, content, and products are for informational purposes only. Nutr Res Pract. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol. But despite the wide range of benefits of spirulina, it may not be without some side effects. After four months, spirulina was associated with significant reductions in cholesterol., Spirulina holds some promise in the treatment of allergic rhinitis (nasal allergies), according to a review published in 2009. Indeed, a previously published study of people with allergic rhinitis found several benefits for spirulina consumption, including improvement in symptoms like nasal discharge, sneezing, congestion, and itching., In a 2008 study involving 37 people with type 2 diabetes, researchers found that those assigned to 12 weeks of spirulina supplementation experienced a significant reduction in blood-fat levels. What Are The Side Effects Of Chlorella? There is not enough scientific data to provide a recommended dose of spirulina. Spirulina and other algae also contain phenylalanine, a compound that people with phenylketonuria (PKU) — a rare inherited condition — should strictly avoid (2). Spirulina isn’t without side effects in spite of all ostensible claims about it. 2008 2(4):295-300. doi:10.4162/nrp.2008.2.4.295, Mani UV, Desai S, Iyer U. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows in both fresh- and saltwater. Here are 8 foods high in…, Many people don’t eat enough veggies, and products like Super Greens seem like an easy way to get your fill. People with allergies to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid spirulina. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that is popular as a supplement. What are spirulina benefits and side effects? A seal of approval from one of these organizations does not guarantee the product's safety or effectiveness, but it does provide assurance that the product was properly manufactured, contains the ingredients listed on the label, and does not contain harmful levels of contaminants. In severe cases, reactions can be fatal (20). What About The Dosage? To learn about its effects on hypertension, one study administered a dose of 4.5 grams of spirulina blue-green algae daily for six weeks. Another study of type 2 diabetes patients administered a product containing 1 gram of spirulina twice daily for two months.. Read our, Medically reviewed by Lana Butner, ND, LAc, Medically reviewed by Arno Kroner, DAOM, LAc, Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD. This article lists 9 impressive health benefits of chlorella supplements. 1 The USDA has given spirulina the designation of … Contaminated blue-green algae may contain microcystins which can cause liver damage, stomach pain , nausea and vomiting , shock , fast heartbeat, and death. Tones the skin; Promotes a youthful-looking complexion; Detoxifies and encourages cell renewal; Side Effects. She helped co-author the first integrative geriatrics textbook, "Integrative Geriatric Medicine.". It is promoted as a preventive or treatment for a wide range of health problems: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, and more. Fariba Nasirian et al. Thank you, {{form.email}}, for signing up. Spirulina is also contained in some skin care products due to its moisturizing and tightening properties, and components derived from spirulina may have properties to help reduce inflammation, for example, arthritis. Spirulina is often sold in powder form, but it's also available in capsules, tablets, and juices. 2. Miczke A, Szulińska M, Hansdorfer-Korzon R, et al. Side effects are typically mild and may include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, headache, and dizziness. The most common side effects include diarrhea, nausea, gas (flatulence), green discoloration of the stools, and stomach cramping, especially in the two weeks of use. Still, this supplement is widely considered safe, and most people experience no side effects … 2009 17(3):226-31. doi:10.1097/MOO.0b013e3283295791, Cingi C, Conk-Dalay M, Cakli H, Bal C. The effects of spirulina on allergic rhinitis. From a wearable mask to a Japanese fad diet, science is finding ever more uses for algae. Still, this supplement is widely considered safe, and most people experience no side effects (2). However, there’s no guarantee that spirulina products are 100% contaminant-free. Some of the minor side effects of spirulina may include nausea, insomnia, and headaches. 2018; 11: 375–380. 2008 265(10):1219-23. doi:10.1007/s00405-008-0642-8, Lee EH, Park JE, Choi YJ, Huh KB, Kim WY. One tablespoon or 7 grams (g) of dried spirulina contains : 20 calories Purported spirulina benefits also include weight loss, increased energy, and stimulation of the immune system. A randomized study to establish the effects of spirulina in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients. Some of the minor side effects of spirulina may include nausea, insomnia, and headaches. You should check with your health care provider before taking it. Note that the alga receives its color from the chlorophyll, and this prevents buildup of cancer cells. As with all supplements, it's important to consult your health care provider before using spirulina to discuss whether it's appropriate for you and whether it can be consumed in combination with other medications and/ or supplements you may be taking. Spirulina brightens the eyes and offers them energetic look due to its rich iron. The algae may harbor toxins if it grows in a body of water that’s polluted with heavy metals, bacteria, or harmful particles called microcystins (2). Spirulina grown in controlled environments is lower in microcystins, as scientists have developed methods to remove this compound, as well as limit its production (8, 9). When you take Spirulina on a regular basis, the tyrosine slows down the aging of the skin cells and the antioxidants eliminate the free radicals. Possible side effects of spirulina. Various doses of spirulina have been used in research. Spirulina successfully fights with free radicals, as the primary “weapon” is a substance, called phycocyanin. Curr Opin Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. Potential side effects Before you start consuming spirulina, your nutritionist will likely tell you about its pros and cons. The powder is sometimes added to smoothies. Benefits. It has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Many cultures around the world include spirulina as part of their daily diets because of its powerful nutrient benefits. Effects for fatty liver have been seen at doses of 4.5 g per day. Research has shown the anti-cancer effects of blue-green alga Spirulina platensis. It is thus recommended to start with weak doses, which are gradually increased. Antihyperlipemic and antihypertensive effects of Spirulina maxima in an open sample of Mexican population: a preliminary report. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The appropriate dose for you may depend on factors including your age, gender, and medical history. This article tells you whether greens…, Lysine and arginine are essential amino acids that your body can’t produce on its own. Spirulina is widely marketed as a “superfood” and protein source, available commercially in capsules, tablets, and powder, as well as in some foods (energy bars) and smoothies. Chlorella and spirulina are types of blue-green algae often consumed in supplement form. Clotting helps prevent excessive bleeding or bruising when you’re injured (17). However, as in most dietary supplements, taking exceedingly large doses can cause unwanted spirulina side effects. 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