Consuming This Algae Can Improve Gastrointestinal Issues

About 10-15% of individuals worldwide suffer from gastrointestinal disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome, hemorrhoids, anal fissures, colitis, colon polyps, and diverticular diseases. A recent study examined the effects of consuming a specific variety of green algae in improving the symptoms of the human gastrointestinal issue including diarrhea, belching or gas and bloating.

The researchers at the University of California San Diego published the results of their project in the Journal of Functional Foods.

Chlamydomonas reinhardtii is a widespread fast-growing plant that is popular in scientific laboratories due to its position as the most exhaustively studied algae worldwide.

For several years, the algae that grow in wet soil has served as a model species for research as well as dietary nutraceuticals that provide vitamins, proteins, carbohydrates, antioxidants, and fiber.

"People have been looking at this algae for decades, but this is the first study to show what many of us have suspected--it's good for you," EurekAlert quoted the principal investigator and algae expert Stephen Mayfield, a distinguished professor in UC San Diego's Division of Biological Sciences and co-director of the Food and Fuel. "This is exciting because it demonstrates a clear benefit: If you have IBS-like symptoms, this is good for you."

The researchers, in Mayfield’s laboratory, have been exploring this alga as a cost-competitive and sustainable source of plant-based valuables for years. The C.reinhardtii biomass used in this study has been considered sage by the U.S.FDA.

The findings of the study showed that participants who suffered from frequent gastrointestinal symptoms experienced improvements in symptoms including less bowel discomfort and diarrhea, less gas or bloating and regularity in bowel movements.

When examining the data from both mice models and human trials, the benefits of consuming this algal species were very obvious. The researchers hope that their study helps destigmatize the thought of incorporating such algae-based products in the diet.

Upon testing the study participants’ stool samples, the researchers pointed out that the gut microbiome composition remained diverse similar to that of healthy individuals. They noted no significant changes to the gut microbiome composition as a result of consuming this alga. They opined that further testing in a larger group of participants across a longer duration is needed.