SPIRULINA (ARTHROSPIRA) PLATENSIS - A REVIEW OF POSSIBLE HYPOTRIGLYCERIDEMIC EFFECTS

Abstract

Spirulina (Arthrospira) sp. is a blue-green algae that is often used as a dietary supplement in powder or tablet form because of its beneficial nutrients, lack of toxicity and therapeutic effects. This study investigates its effects on subjects supplemented with Spirulina, focusing on its effects on triglyceride values. A literature review was conducted on the effects of Spirulina on different organisms, with a focus on triglycerides. Most research with Spirulina sp. has shown that it has a hypotriglyceridemic effect on patients given Spirulina, but also on some animals, with numerous studies also done on rats. Following analysis, it has been found that Spirulina supplementation has a favorable effect on triglycerides, lowering their value considerably, leading to a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke. The microalga Spirulina sp. has been the subject of research due to evidence of its therapeutic potential in several areas, including its ability to prevent and reduce damage caused by dyslipidemia and its antioxidant activity. The present study suggests that Spirulina supplementation may produce beneficial effects on triglycerides.