Effects of spirulina on weight loss and blood lipids: a review

Open Heart. 2020 Mar 8;7(1):e001003. doi: 10.1136/openhrt-2018-001003. eCollection 2020.

Abstract

Spirulina, a cyanobacteria commonly referred to as a blue-green algae, is one of the oldest lifeforms on Earth. Spirulina grows in both fresh and saltwater sources and is known for its high protein and micronutrient content. This review paper will cover the effects of spirulina on weight loss and blood lipids. The currently literature supports the benefits of spirulina for reducing body fat, waist circumference, body mass index and appetite and shows that spirulina has significant benefits for improving blood lipids.

Keywords: lipids; spirulina; weight loss.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Anti-Obesity Agents* / adverse effects
  • Anti-Obesity Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Biomarkers / blood
  • Dietary Supplements* / adverse effects
  • Dyslipidemias* / blood
  • Dyslipidemias* / diagnosis
  • Dyslipidemias* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Hypolipidemic Agents* / adverse effects
  • Hypolipidemic Agents* / therapeutic use
  • Lipids* / blood
  • Obesity* / diagnosis
  • Obesity* / drug therapy
  • Obesity* / physiopathology
  • Spirulina*
  • Treatment Outcome
  • Weight Loss* / drug effects

Substances

  • Anti-Obesity Agents
  • Biomarkers
  • Hypolipidemic Agents
  • Lipids