Spirulina Use: Warnings And Barriers To Use

Recently, spirulina has grown in popularity in nutrition as its health benefits are now recognized. But like any supplement, the use of spirulina comes with certain warnings and barriers that are good to keep in mind. For whom is the use of spirulina not recommended? Keep reading!

Spirulina is an algae that grows without problems in desert areas and even more easily in places where the water is alkaline. Thanks to its numerous nutrients, many consider it a superfood. However, this does not mean that it is safe to use in all cases.

What nutrients do you get from spirulina?

Spirulina has been used by civilizations such as the Aztecs and Incas since ancient times. But it was not until some time ago that its health-significant properties were rediscovered. This is why it is highly valued today and is sold in powder, capsule, liquid and tablet form.

Spirulina is rich in protein, essential fatty acids and antioxidants. In addition, it contains minerals such as iron, copper and zinc, as well as vitamins A, E and B.

Benefits of Spirulina

Several studies emphasize that, thanks to its ingredients,  spirulina can help prevent some diseases  and strengthen resistance.

Its most well-known effects are as follows:

• It is antioxidant and antiviral.
• It traps heavy metals, meaning it is a natural chelate.
• It  regulates blood sugar  and cholesterol levels.

Use of Spirulina: Warnings and Barriers to Use

While this supplement is safe for most, in some cases it is best to avoid it as it may cause side effects. Let’s take a closer look at  five situations where the use of spirulina requires caution.

1. People with bleeding disorders should be careful with spirulina

Spirulina has an anti-clotting effect, meaning it slows down the action of platelets, which patch wounds in blood vessels. Thus, it adversely affects the normal cessation of bleeding.

In this sense, people who eat drugs that act in a similar way, such as atrial fibrillation or cerebral infarction, should avoid spirulina. In patients with bleeding disorders, the tendency to bruise and heavy bleeding may increase.

2. Pregnant or lactating women

There are no adequate data from the effects of this supplement during pregnancy, but algae are known to be contaminated with toxic substances and heavy metals.

Heavy metal poisoning is a serious condition that affects several organs. The brain, kidneys, and red blood cells are prone to the accumulation of these toxins, which in the medium term  increases the risk of other diseases.

The placenta, the link between mother and fetus, can also be poisoned by heavy metals. Thus, pregnancy is one of the situations where there are warnings and barriers to using spirulina.

3. People with autoimmune diseases should not use spirulina

The use of spirulina strengthens the immune system, but  in some situations – such as MS, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and other similar diseases – spirulina can strengthen this effect and thus make the disease worse.

For this reason, it is best to avoid using it in these cases.

4. The use of spirulina is not recommended for people with allergies

According to some studies, spirulina may contain an allergenic ingredient, which can cause side effects. Although a possible allergy only becomes apparent when spirulina is ingested, people  who are already allergic to some foods should be extremely careful about using it.

5. Patients with phenylketonuria should be wary of spirulina

Phenylketonuria is an inherited disease that is rare in the general population. In these patients, the metabolism of an amino acid called phenylalanine is altered.

These people should not eat products containing this substance, such as algae, as their bodies are unable to process its metabolism, which causes symptoms.

What to consider before using spirulina

For clarification, spirulina is used as a supplement, not as a medicine. Its use in the right amounts is safe for most people,  except for the groups mentioned in the previous paragraph.

However, in some special situations, side effects may occur; these may include rash and itching, thirst, constipation, abdominal pain and dizziness. Although this ingredient is an alternative source of protein, essential fatty acids and other nutrients, it can still cause side effects.

Contrary to popular belief, even natural products may not be completely harmless. So if you suffer from any disease, are breastfeeding or are allergic to certain foods, ask your doctor if you can include this algae in your diet.