Conclusions
Many positive claiMSS for spirulina are based on research done on individual nutrients that spirulina contains, such as various antioxidants, rather than on direct research using spirulina. This is one of the few studies where humans were supplemented with spirulina. We report for the first time that supplementation of spirulina for 4 wk increased exercise performance, possibly through an increase in fat oxidation rate, and increased GSH levels. The reasons behind the enhanced performance and increased fat oxidation after spirulina supplementation are poorly understood, and more research is needed to elucidate this. Particularly, the effect of spirulina on mitochondrial function and β oxidation in conjunction with inflammation and oxidative stress requires further investigation.
This study was supported by funds from the Center of Research and Technology - Thessaly.
The results of the present study do not constitute endorsement by American College of Sports Medicine.
Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2010;42(1):142-151. © 2010
Cite this: Ergogenic and Antioxidant Effects of Spirulina Supplementation in Humans - Medscape - Jan 01, 2010.
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