Algae Juice Diet

There have been numerous claims on the benefits of algae diet: from weight loss to detoxification, but, there is very little or no evidence to support these claims of algae being the next "super food." However, there is evidence supporting blue algae might be useful for people with fibromyalgia as well as aiding those suffering from allergies. Spirulina, an alga, in extract form, added to juice may be beneficial for these ailments.

Fibromyalgia

Although, experts aren't certain as to what exactly causes fibromyalgia, nonetheless, progress has been made with the debilitating condition. Fibromyalgia is a chronic disease where certain points of the body are highly sensitive to touch. These tender spots often form a particular pattern of pain. Managing the pain is sometimes difficult, because the pain shifts, constantly. In addition, the musculoskeletal is also subject to discomfort, sometimes making the pain intolerable. Research on the condition continues, today. A 2001 study showed that Chlorella pyrenoidosa, an algae, to be beneficial to the condition. In a review of recent clinical trials of the algae supplement and its effect on fibromyalgia reported in the Alternative Therapy Health Medicine Journal, 37 participants were given 10g daily of placebo or cholorella for three months. Afterwards, the groups were switched for an additional three months. Results showed that taking chlorella had improved the symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. Spirulina extract, an algae supplement, can be found in most health food stores and can be added to most juices. Dosage varies, from 1g to 8.4g, daily. If you're considering taking spirulina, always consult your regular physician first.

Allergies

Spirulina is high in protein and also contains 10 vitamins and eight minerals. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids, Docosahexaenoic (DHA) and Eicosapentaenoic (EPA), which are known to decrease inflammatory responses in the body. According to William Sears, M. D., author of "America's Pediatrician," this is what protects people from allergic responses to hay fever, sinus or asthma attacks that usually occur during the fall and spring. In his upcoming book "MEG," Dr. Sears explains that children and adults with allergy and asthma symptoms are "I-Bod," meaning, highly susceptible to inflammation from allergens. Dr. Sears, who is an associate clinical professor of pediatrics at UC Irvine's School of Medicine, suggests eating a variety of fish, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids. However, if you don't particularly like fish, try spirulina, an algae supplement, as a replacement for the omega-3 fatty acid.