Sea Algae and their Bendficial Effect by Dr. Elke Kraemer

 Sea Algae and their Beneficial Effects on the Body

 By Dr. Elke Kraemer

 Algae belong to the most important producers of organic materials. All other living organisms in the oceans depend on their activity. They are part of the most important suppliers of oxygen on our planet and consequently the human existence is dependent on our long-term relationship with these life forms.

Some sea algae are a real source of youth and vitality for humans since they contain valuable vitamins, minerals, trace elements and other vital substances. The brown sea alga belongs to the species large algae. These algae grow up to several meters in height and, with other large algae, form “the rain forests of the sea”. The brown sea algae are primarily harvested in cold waters in the northwest of the Pacific Ocean. In Japan and Korea they have been part of the daily diet for over 3000 years and are valued due to their many positive effects on health, which also have been confirmed in recent studies. There are two substances of particular interest, alginic acid and fucoidan. These two substances have a vital detoxification functions and a positive effect on the immune system.

The detoxification function is performed by the alginates which are salts from the alginic acid. Alginate binds together with heavy metals such as mercury, cadmium and form a complex mixture which subsequently is excreted from the body. Pesticides and harmful substances in tobacco smoke are also bound to alginate. Furthermore, radiation damage from mobile phones and computers are reduced by the alginates. The alginates also bind fatty substances in the gastrointestinal tract and hereby contribute to a lowering of cholesterol and triglyceride values in the blood when used regularly.

Fucoidan is the other interesting substance which is extracted from the brown sea alga (Laminaria Japonica). It is a polysaccharide complex consisting of gluco-proteins and other sugar compounds with low molecular weight. Sea Fucoidan amazingly causes self-destruction of cancer cells (apoptosis).

According to research results fucoidan has several effects on the immune system. The activity of the T-lymphocytes and the natural killer-cells is increased. The number of macrophages is increased and the growth of tumor cells is inhibited. Recent studies have shown that fucoidan increases the production of the cytokines HGF (hepatocyte growth factor). Cytokine plays an important role at the regeneration of cell tissue. Additionally, fucoidan activates plasminogen, a proteolytic enzyme which dissolves the fibrin (coagulation protein in the blood). Due to these characteristics, fucoidan is used in preclinical studies in treatment of liver cirrhosis, hepatitis and other diseases.

Positive effects on health

• When used regularly, the brown sea alga assists in improving the blood circulation
• It dilates the small blood vessels and therefore contributes to increased oxygen supply of the tissue
• Blood pressure is lowered
• Cholesterol and triglyceride values are lowered
• The immune system is enhanced
• Toxins are bound
• The nutritional supply to the bones is improved
• The intestine tract is cleansed and the intestinal function is improved
• The absorption of iron is improved
• The formation of blood cells is increased
• The general condition of health is improved