When high levels of nutrients, adequate sunshine and the right temperatures prevail, a murky, pervasive, substance may develop in certain bodies of water. Called an algal bloom, this phenomenon is actually a microscopic population explosion. Most varieties of this organism are not normally eaten by humans, and a few can actually be harmful. Some edible species have become the source of blue green algae supplements, a popular dietary addition.
Biologically speaking, these are unusual creatures. Because of their bright green color, people assume that they belong to the plant kingdom, but correct classification is not that simple. While they definitely possess plant-like characteristics, other properties are predominantly bacterial in function and physiology. These organisms have adapted over the ages to nearly every environment and temperature range.
Products made from algae include agar, usually derived from salt-water members of this family. Some varieties are named for their characteristic cyan blue color, which occurs as a result of bacterial photosynthesis, a method of deriving energy directly from sunlight normally used only by plants. When processed into consumable tablets or powder, some of the products made from algae have been glowingly called the most promising food of the future.
The designation as super-food may be hyperbole, but it is true that this product family has created a new market. Klamath Lake in southern Oregon is one of the best farming locations due to the local climatic conditions and a lack of pollution. Most commercial growers harvest types of Spirulina, which contains the highest levels of nutrients and can be controlled relatively easily.
It is not hard to understand the consumer enthusiasm these products generate. The same process that gives these tiny organisms their color also makes them relatively high in vegetable proteins, including beta-carotene. They contain a wide spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals, including amino acids, and also may have generate antioxidant properties. These characteristics have given rise to many health claims.
Although difficult to prove scientifically, enthusiasts recommend it as a way to ease anxiety and depression, an aid for losing excess weight, and a palliative for certain female health complications. It is said to reduce inflammation, suppress certain oral cancers, and boost flagging immune systems. Some recommend taking it for chronic fatigue, or to combat the effects of hyperactivity-attention disorder (ADHD).
Some of those unproven assertions have created controversy and sparked legal action in the past, regardless of any nutritional advantages. Using this type of supplement as a natural aid is probably neither toxic nor harmful in recommended amounts, but the actual results cannot be easily duplicated in a laboratory. They are subjective, and vary widely for each individual.
Regarded as food supplement and not a medication, the substance can be taken in pill form, sprinkled over other dishes, or combined with juice or water. Over-dosing is next to impossible, although pregnant women are advised to discontinue use. People who use it daily report an increase in energy and a greater sense of physical well-being, with an improvement in many physical functions.
Biologically speaking, these are unusual creatures. Because of their bright green color, people assume that they belong to the plant kingdom, but correct classification is not that simple. While they definitely possess plant-like characteristics, other properties are predominantly bacterial in function and physiology. These organisms have adapted over the ages to nearly every environment and temperature range.
Products made from algae include agar, usually derived from salt-water members of this family. Some varieties are named for their characteristic cyan blue color, which occurs as a result of bacterial photosynthesis, a method of deriving energy directly from sunlight normally used only by plants. When processed into consumable tablets or powder, some of the products made from algae have been glowingly called the most promising food of the future.
The designation as super-food may be hyperbole, but it is true that this product family has created a new market. Klamath Lake in southern Oregon is one of the best farming locations due to the local climatic conditions and a lack of pollution. Most commercial growers harvest types of Spirulina, which contains the highest levels of nutrients and can be controlled relatively easily.
It is not hard to understand the consumer enthusiasm these products generate. The same process that gives these tiny organisms their color also makes them relatively high in vegetable proteins, including beta-carotene. They contain a wide spectrum of essential vitamins and minerals, including amino acids, and also may have generate antioxidant properties. These characteristics have given rise to many health claims.
Although difficult to prove scientifically, enthusiasts recommend it as a way to ease anxiety and depression, an aid for losing excess weight, and a palliative for certain female health complications. It is said to reduce inflammation, suppress certain oral cancers, and boost flagging immune systems. Some recommend taking it for chronic fatigue, or to combat the effects of hyperactivity-attention disorder (ADHD).
Some of those unproven assertions have created controversy and sparked legal action in the past, regardless of any nutritional advantages. Using this type of supplement as a natural aid is probably neither toxic nor harmful in recommended amounts, but the actual results cannot be easily duplicated in a laboratory. They are subjective, and vary widely for each individual.
Regarded as food supplement and not a medication, the substance can be taken in pill form, sprinkled over other dishes, or combined with juice or water. Over-dosing is next to impossible, although pregnant women are advised to discontinue use. People who use it daily report an increase in energy and a greater sense of physical well-being, with an improvement in many physical functions.
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