Algae Extract Improves Cardiovascular Markers

Chlorella is a type of single-cell green algae, and was among the first of all algae to be cultivated into dietary supplements.   Abundant in antioxidant vitamins, some studies suggest that chlorella is a potent detoxifier.  Korean researchers administered a chlorella supplement (5 gms/day) or placebo, to 63 men and women with mildly elevated cholesterol levels (hypercholesterolemia), for 4 weeks.  Among the chlorella supplemented group, the researchers observed significant reductions in total cholesterol  (-1.9%) and triglycerides (-10.3%), whereas those markers increased in the control (placebo) group.  Additionally, beneficial changes in antioxidants occurred: lutein/zeaxanthin levels increased by almost 90% in the chlorella group, but decreased in the controls; alpha-carotene rose by 164% in the chlorella group as well.   Writing that: “Daily consumption of Chlorella supplements provided the potential of health benefits reducing serum lipid risk factors, mainly triglycerides and total cholesterol, in mildly hypercholesterolemic subjects,” the study authors submit that: “The effect was related to carotenoid consumption.”