Algae as a Food Supplement and Effects on Human Health

Deepshikha

Abstract: Algae are in the form of tablet, capsule, powder and oil. Nutritional benefits of algal food product are, they are energy source, used for as a food, protein content is high, oils from microalgae are rich in Poly-unsaturated fatty acids, important source of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Advantages includes antibacterial, antiviral and antifungal activity of fresh water algae, source of biologically active compounds used in pharmaceuticals and heart health. Disadvantages includes intake of toxic metals, allergies, cyanotoxins, contamination with pathogens.

Keywords: Algae, food, nutrition, food supplement, human health, food nutrition, plant based diet, food nutrition, spirulina