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.
The organisms are biologically fascinating. While people might assume that their characteristic green color makes them members of the plant kingdom, these creatures are actually tricky to classify. Plant-like processes takes place internally, but they also have properties considered more bacterial in form and function. They have successfully lived for eons almost everywhere on earth, and have even been found underneath glacial ice.
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.
While the term super-food may be a misnomer, harvesting this lowest-on-the-food-chain creature has become increasingly profitable. In North America, Klamath Lake in Oregon is a prime location, with its relatively pollution-free waters and ideal climate. The most commonly commercially farmed types are in the classification Spirulina, said to be the richest variety nutritionally.
Understanding consumer excitement about these products is not difficult. The same biological process that gives these organisms their bright colors also helps increase the amount of healthy vegetable protein, while creating high levels of beta-carotene. The amounts of amino acids, minerals, and vitamins are comparatively high, and the substance is known to possess antioxidant properties. These positive factors have generated numerous health claims.
Although few of those benefits are scientifically proven, advocates suggest using it to aid in weight loss, to ease depression and anxiety, or to address female reproductive health issues. The substance is said to boost the immune system and even reduce early stages of oral cancer, while eliminating chronic fatigue due to low energy levels. Some of the products are even recommended as a way to help conquer ADHD, or attention-hyperactivity disorder.
Algae derivatives undoubtedly have provided real advantages for users, but there has been considerable past controversy and issues of legality regarding some assertions. While using this dietary addition to treat or influence specific conditions is neither harmful nor toxic, any realistic and beneficial medical outcome attributed to taking these products is subjective, differing from person to person.
Although not a drug or medication, this food supplement is available in powders that can be sprinkled over other foods or dissolved in juice or water, or can be taken in standard capsule form. Harm from over-dosing is rare, but pregnant women are advised to temporarily avoid using it. People who consume it daily say that it imparts of feeling of overall good health and increased well-being.
The organisms are biologically fascinating. While people might assume that their characteristic green color makes them members of the plant kingdom, these creatures are actually tricky to classify. Plant-like processes takes place internally, but they also have properties considered more bacterial in form and function. They have successfully lived for eons almost everywhere on earth, and have even been found underneath glacial ice.
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.
While the term super-food may be a misnomer, harvesting this lowest-on-the-food-chain creature has become increasingly profitable. In North America, Klamath Lake in Oregon is a prime location, with its relatively pollution-free waters and ideal climate. The most commonly commercially farmed types are in the classification Spirulina, said to be the richest variety nutritionally.
Understanding consumer excitement about these products is not difficult. The same biological process that gives these organisms their bright colors also helps increase the amount of healthy vegetable protein, while creating high levels of beta-carotene. The amounts of amino acids, minerals, and vitamins are comparatively high, and the substance is known to possess antioxidant properties. These positive factors have generated numerous health claims.
Although few of those benefits are scientifically proven, advocates suggest using it to aid in weight loss, to ease depression and anxiety, or to address female reproductive health issues. The substance is said to boost the immune system and even reduce early stages of oral cancer, while eliminating chronic fatigue due to low energy levels. Some of the products are even recommended as a way to help conquer ADHD, or attention-hyperactivity disorder.
Algae derivatives undoubtedly have provided real advantages for users, but there has been considerable past controversy and issues of legality regarding some assertions. While using this dietary addition to treat or influence specific conditions is neither harmful nor toxic, any realistic and beneficial medical outcome attributed to taking these products is subjective, differing from person to person.
Although not a drug or medication, this food supplement is available in powders that can be sprinkled over other foods or dissolved in juice or water, or can be taken in standard capsule form. Harm from over-dosing is rare, but pregnant women are advised to temporarily avoid using it. People who consume it daily say that it imparts of feeling of overall good health and increased well-being.
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