2025/07/28 by Patricia Casas‐Agustench, Sandra Mínguez, Zoë Brookes +1 · 1 voice
Agricultural and Biological Sciences · Earth and Planetary Sciences · Nursing · #Marine and coastal plant biology #Seaweed-derived Bioactive Compounds #Sodium Intake and Health
paper · pdf · doi:10.1111/jhn.70095
openalex publication_date 2025/07/28 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/14
BACKGROUND: Edible algae contain bioactive compounds such as peptides, fucoidan, polyphenols, potassium, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants that may benefit cardiovascular health, particularly in lowering blood pressure (BP) regulation. Certain species, including Nori and Kelp, are also rich in inorganic nitrate, known for its BP-lowering effects. However, the relationship between algae consumption and hypertension remains controversial. This study evaluated the effects of edible algae on BP in humans, considering factors such as algae type, format, dosage, intervention duration, health status, and baseline BP. METHODS: A systematic search of Medline-Pubmed, Scopus and Cochrane databases was conducted through December 2024. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) in adults (≥ 18 years), healthy or with a cardiometabolic condition, with interventions ≥ 4-weeks and BP outcomes were included. Risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Random-effects meta-analyses were conducted; heterogeneity and publication bias were assessed using statistical tests and plots. Sensitivity, subgroup, and meta-regression analyses were conducted to explore sources of heterogeneity. RESULTS: = 68%; p < 0.001). Spirulina was the most effective algae, reducing SBP by -5.28 mmHg (p = 0.032) and DBP by -3.56 mmHg (p = 0.044). Dosage of algae > 3 g/day significantly lowered SBP (-3.71 mmHg; p = 0.004) and DBP (-3.05 mmHg; p = 0.022). Whole algae intake showed greater effects than extracts. Benefits were more pronounced in individuals with cardiometabolic risk. Meta-regression found no independent association between algae dosage and SBP change, but baseline SBP significantly predicted both SBP and DBP reductions. CONCLUSION: Consuming over 3 g/day of whole edible algae, especially Spirulina, for at least 12 weeks significantly lowers BP, particularly in those with elevated levels. This suggests that edible microalgae may serve as a natural approach to managing hypertension, complementing pharmacological treatments.