Contents
Uses
- Red algae has been used for thousands of years as a source of food and for treating medical conditions. It is high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are easily utilized by your body. The main benefits of red algae is its ability to promote healthy circulation in your body, regulate your blood sugar levels and lower bad cholesterol levels since it is high in dietary fiber. It is also a rich source of calcium and magnesium so it contributes to bone health and since it is loaded with antioxidants it helps boost your immune system and nourishes your skin.
Benefits
Counters Free Radicals and Viruses
One benefit of red marine algae is its antioxidant effect, which counters damage free radicals do to cells. Red marine algae is also an anti-viral compound. The carrageenans – a type of sugar molecule – found in red marine algae are believed to boost interferon production in the immune system and might be an effective preventative against diseases like HIV, shingles and cold sores. According to the Disabled World website, your body can become resistant to certain prescription anti-viral medications, but red marine algae doesn’t appear to have this flaw.
Red algae supplements may help treat hypertension and provide strong antioxidant effects.
Cautions
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Hypertension Effects
Red algae supplements may produce positive effects in people with hypertension. A Korean study, published in the 2006 edition of the journal “Algae,” observed the inhibitory effects of red algae extracts on an enzyme linked to high blood pressure. The angiotensin-1 converting enzyme, or ACE, plays a significant role in controlling blood pressure, according to researchers. Scientists reported that some red algae species produced “remarkable” anti-ACE activities when compared to other marine organisms. Findings suggest red algae have excellent potential for use as an ACE-like inhibitor. However, additional scientific research is needed to conclusively prove the effectiveness of red algae to treat hypertension. Based on observations of mildly hypertensive patients, Drugs.com generally recommends a daily dosage of 6 to 24g of red algae supplements.
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Calcium Effects
Calcium, a main element in red algae, may potentially result in several adverse effects. Though no official dosage of red algae exists in 2011, Drugs.com generally recommends a safe dosage of 900mg of red-algae-derived calcium daily, based on research regarding seaweed effects in osteoporosis patients. However, doses of calcium in excess of the Office of Dietary Supplements recommended adult daily dosage of 1,000mg can result in digestive disturbances such as constipation, gas and bloating. In addition, though rarely occurring from calcium-containing supplements, extreme levels of calcium in the blood, or hypercalcemia, can cause kidney malfunction and kidney stones as well as hard calcium deposits in the arteries and veins.
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Negative Effects
Due to the high levels of iodine in red algae, using these supplements could result in an overdose of iodine. You could also experience gastrointestinal problems such as soft stools and a feeling of fullness. Since regular intake of red algae could interact with medications or health conditions, you should consult your doctor before beginning this or any other supplement.
Interactions
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- Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs) interacts with Red Marine Algae
Carrageenan seems to decrease blood pressure. Taking carrageenan along with medications for high blood pressure might cause your blood pressure to go too low.
Some medications for high blood pressure include captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), losartan (Cozaar), valsartan (Diovan), diltiazem (Cardizem), Amlodipine (Norvasc), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDiuril), furosemide (Lasix), and many others. - Medications taken by mouth (Oral drugs) interacts with Red Marine Algae
Carrageenan is a thick gel. Carrageenan can stick to medications in the stomach and intestines. Taking carrageenan at the same time as medications that you take by mouth can decrease how much medication your body absorbs, and decrease the effectiveness of your medication. To prevent this interaction, take carrageenan at least one hour after medications you take by mouth. - Medications that slow blood clotting (Anticoagulant / Antiplatelet drugs) interacts with Red Marine Algae
Carrageenan might slow blood clotting. Taking carrageenan along with medications that also slow clotting might increase the chances of bruising and bleeding.
Some medications that slow blood clotting include aspirin, clopidogrel (Plavix), diclofenac (Voltaren, Cataflam, others), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), naproxen (Anaprox, Naprosyn, others), dalteparin (Fragmin), enoxaparin (Lovenox), heparin, warfarin (Coumadin), and others.
- Medications for high blood pressure (Antihypertensive drugs) interacts with Red Marine Algae
Other names
Algas, Algue Rouge Marine, Carrageen, Carrageenin, Carragenano, Carragenina, Carragheenan, Carraghénane, Carraghénine, Chondrus crispus, Chondrus Extract, Euchema species, Extrait de Mousse d’Irlande, Galgarine, Gigartina chamissoi, Gigartina mamillosa, Gigartina skottsbergii, Irish Moss Algae, Irish Moss Extract, Mousse d’Irlande, Red Marine Algae
References
Source: WebMD, http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-supplements/ingredientmono-710-carrageenan.aspx?activeingredientid=710&activeingredientname=carrageenan
Live Strong, http://www.livestrong.com/article/183640-red-marine-algae-health-benefits/
Live Strong, http://www.livestrong.com/article/413046-side-effects-of-red-algae-supplements/
One Green Planet, http://www.onegreenplanet.org/vegan-health/the-many-benefits-of-red-algae-with-product-picks/