Favorable Effects of Blue-Green Algae Aphanizomenon flos-aquae on Rat Plasma Lipids

Abstract

Background: Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential for human health. There are indications that the lipid fraction of blue-green algae Aphanizomenon flosaquae contains about 50% PUFA and may be a good dietary source of PUFA. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effect of diets supplemented with algae on blood plasma lipids. Methods: Rats were fed with four different semisynthetic diets: 1) standard, with 5% soybean oil; 2) PUFA-free with 5% coconut oil; 3) PUFA-free with 10% algae; 4) PUFA-free with 15% algae. After 32 days the levels of plasma fatty acids, triglycerides, and cholesterol were studied. Results: Rats fed the PUFA-free diet demonstrated an absence of linolenic acid (LNA) in plasma; however, supplementation with algae resulted in the same level of LNA as controls, increased levels of eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid, and a decreased level of arachidonic acid. Dietary supplementation with 10% and 15% algae decreased the plasma cholesterol to 54% and 25% of the control level, respectively (p<0.0005). Plasma triglyceride levels decreased significantly (p<0.005) after diet supplementation with 15% algae. Conclusion: Algae Aphanizomenon flos-aquae is a good source of PUFA and because of potential hypocholesterolemic properties should be a valuable nutritional resource.