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Blue Green Algae Health Risk

Blue green algae (BGA), or cyanobacteria, are ancient microorganisms that live in oceans, lakes and soil, produce their own food and are believed to be billions of years old. They are 1 of 11 algae groups that include a total of 1,500 species. Alternative health practitioners tout BGA supplements as health aids, however, there are health risks associated with use of blue green algae.

  1. Expert Insight

    • BGA in its natural state produces four categories of toxins: hepatotoxins that attack the liver and other organs; neurotoxins that act as nerve-blocking agents and can cause respiratory arrest; endotoxins that cause skin irritation and dermatitis and non-specific toxins that gradually damage most internal organs.

    Effects

    • Negative side effects users of blue green algae supplements developed included: headache, nausea, malaise, gastrointestinal discomfort, jaundice, diarrhea and numbness. The highest risk, per scientific studies, appears to be that some BGA naturally produce toxic microcystins.

    Theories/Speculation

    • Microcystins can build up in the liver and cause damage to that vital organ. Children are particularly vulnerable because of their low body weights compared to adults. Researchers suggest microcystins are more often found in BGA derived from natural sources (lakes and oceans), and therefore, algae products produced in controlled environments are said to be less risky.

    Significance

    • Exposure to high levels of microcystins disrupts liver function, which can lead to hemorrhage and hypovolemic shock. It is still unknown how long-term exposure to low levels of microcystins affects humans, but animal studies have shown such exposure is linked to liver tumors and cancer.

    Warning

    • Use of blue green algae products is not recommended for severely ill patients or for children. Even for healthy adults or those with mild health problems, long-term use of certain species of blue green algae is not advised.

    Considerations

    • The U.S. government has issued warnings to blue green algae manufacturers to cease promoting their products as health cures and has even taken such cases to court successfully. Authorities advise that nutrients contained in BGA products are available in other food sources that are less expensive and do not pose the health risks associated with blue green algae.

    Types

    • BGA can start off as invisible, one-celled organisms but often grow into communities large enough to be seen with the human eye. In addition to growing naturally in bodies of water, blue green algae also can be cultivated in controlled environments by laboratories or manufacturers for use in scientific studies or as dietary supplements. BGA products are available in tablet, capsule or powder form and are produced by manufacturers such as Klamath, Source Naturals, Now Foods and Cell Tech.

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