What Are the Benefits of Algae for Humans?

For centuries algae has been a delicacy throughout Asia. In the West, algae has slowly gained popularity for its health benefits, such as increased immunity and high amounts of nutrients. Algae is also used as a coloring agent and for a variety of other purposes throughout the world. Understanding the numerous benefits available from this part of Mother Nature can prove advantageous to our everyday life.

Food Stabilizer and Gelling Agent

• Carrageenan, extracted from a red species of algae, is used throughout the United States as a stabilizer and gelling ingredient in foods, such as chocolate, instant pudding mix, milk, cream soups and pre-made frostings. Agar, derived from a red algae species as well, is also used as a gelling agent in gelatin, processed cheeses, pudding, mayonnaise and jelly.

Preventing Ice Crystals in Food

• Alginates, derived from a species of brown algae, help to thicken water-based products and add a creamy texture to them. They can also stabilize the pH in food products over a range of different temperatures and time. Products such as ice cream will typically use alginates to thicken and prevent ice crystals.

Food Colorant

• The pigment from green algae contains beta-carotene, which is used as a natural form of food colorant. Spirulina, a form of blue-green algae, produces phycocyanin, another natural food colorant.

Boosting Immunity and Health

• The blue-green species of algae contains essential nutrients, such as amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, that help improve the immune system. These species have also been shown to boost energy levels and improve overall health when used in a dietary regimen. This natural source of chlorophyll and phytochemicals can help promote cell regrowth and detoxify the body of impurities that can cause illness. It is also thought that beta-carotene can help fight particular forms of cancer and strengthen the immune system as well.

Increased Stem Cells

• Studies have shown that chlorella, found in freshwater green algae, contains a nucleotide-peptide complex proven to promote stem cell growth quickly. Hematopoietic stem cells that grow in muscle, blood vessels and bone are important for your body's overall health and the quickness in which your body repairs from illness and injury.