Blue-Green Algae?

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20 Dec 2021

Articles by Dr Greger:

(2012) Are neurotoxins only present in blue-green algae?
Overview article: Blue-Green Algae Excerpt:

Almost all blue-green algae can produce neurotoxins. One of these neurotoxins is BMAA, an amino acid which increases the risks of degenerative diseases of the central nervous system. BMAA is found throughout the world. Aquatic animals, such as fish and shellfish, contain high concentrations of BMAA.
In fact, researchers found BMAA in the brains of Canadian patients with Alzheimer’s. In 2009, further research through a study done in Miami revealed that BMAA was also found in the brains of Floridians with Alzheimer’s, Lou Gehrig’s disease (ALS), and those dying from Parkinson’s disease. Exposure to BMAA through eating fish and seafood was considered a possible source of the toxin. High levels of BMAA were found in Florida fish and seafood.

Videos by Dr Greger:

(2010) Is Blue-Green Algae Good for You?

(1 min) Transcript. Dr Greger's summary: "The potential neurotoxicity of blue-green algae supplements remains a concern."

(2007) Blue-Green Algae & Spirulina

(2 mins) Transcript. Dr Greger's summary: "The risks associated with these supplements may outweigh the benefits."

(2015) Diet & Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS)

(4 mins) Transcript. Dr Greger's summary: "A neurotoxin called BMAA that concentrates in seafood may help explain clusters of Lou Gehrig's disease."

Spirulina

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae. Dr Greger, Dr Fuhrman and Dr Andrew Weil do not recommend spirulina. See Spirulina for a discussion.

Chlorella

Chlorella is a type of green algae, which is different from blue-green algae. Chlorella is recommended by Dr Greger.