1
|
Barghchi H, Dehnavi Z, Nattagh-Eshtivani E, Alwaily ER, Almulla AF, Kareem AK, Barati M, Ranjbar G, Mohammadzadeh A, Rahimi P, Pahlavani N. The effects of Chlorella vulgaris on cardiovascular risk factors: A comprehensive review on putative molecular mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother 2023; 162:114624. [PMID: 37018990 DOI: 10.1016/j.biopha.2023.114624] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/05/2023] Open
Abstract
High incidence rate of cardiovascular disease (CVD) make this condition as an important public health concern. The use of natural products in treating this chronic condition has increased in recent years one of which is the single-celled green alga Chlorella. Chlorella vulgaris (CV) has been studied for its potential benefits to human health due to its biological and pharmacological features. CV contains a variety of macro and micronutrients, including proteins, omega-3, polysaccharides, vitamins, and minerals. Some studies have indicated that taking CV as a dietary supplement can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. In some studies, cardiovascular risk factors that are based on hematological indices did not show these benefits, and no molecular mechanisms have been identified. This comprehensive review summarized the research on the cardio-protective benefits of chlorella supplementation and the underlying molecular processes.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hanieh Barghchi
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Zahra Dehnavi
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Elyas Nattagh-Eshtivani
- Department of Nutrition, Food Sciences and Clinical Biochemistry, School of Medicine, Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Science, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Enas R Alwaily
- Microbiology Research Group, College of Pharmacy, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Iraq
| | - Abbas F Almulla
- Medical Laboratory Technology Department, College of Medical Technology, The Islamic University, Najaf, Iraq
| | - Ali K Kareem
- Biomedical Engineering Department, Al-Mustaqbal University College, 51001, Hillah, Iraq
| | - Mehdi Barati
- Department of Pathobiology and Laboratory Sciences, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences, Bojnurd, Iran
| | - Golnaz Ranjbar
- Department of Nutrition, School of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Mohammadzadeh
- Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine, Infectious Diseases Research Center, Gonabad University of Medical Sciences, Gonabad, Iran
| | - Pegah Rahimi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Naseh Pahlavani
- Health Sciences Research Center, Torbat Heydariyeh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydariyeh, Iran; School of Medical Sciences, Behbahan Faculty of Medical Sciences, Behbahan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Gurney T, Brouner J, Spendiff O. The Efficacy of Chlorella Supplementation on Multiple Indices of Cycling Performance. J Diet Suppl 2023; 21:99-115. [PMID: 36905653 DOI: 10.1080/19390211.2023.2186557] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/13/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the effects of chlorella supplementation on submaximal endurance, time trial performance, lactate threshold, and power indices during a repeated sprint performance test by fourteen male trained cyclists. Participants ingested 6 g/day of chlorella or placebo for 21-days in a double-blinded randomized counter-balanced cross-over design, with a fourteen-day washout period between trials. Each completed a 2-day testing period comprising a 1-hour submaximal endurance test at 55% external power output max and a 16.1 km time trial (Day-1), followed by a lactate threshold (Dmax) and repeated sprint performance tests (3 X 20 s sprints interspersed by 4-mins) (Day-2). Heart rate (b.min-1), RER, V̇O2 (ml·kg-1·min-1), lactate and glucose (mmol/L), time (secs), power output (W/kg), and hemoglobin (g/L) were compared across conditions. Following chlorella supplementation (chlorella vs. placebo for each measurement) average lactate and heart rate were significantly lower (p < 0.05) during submaximal endurance tests (1.68 ± 0.50 mmol/L vs. 1.91 ± 0.65 mmol/L & 138 ± 11b.min-1 vs. 144 ± 10b.min-1), average power and peak power (W/kg) were significantly higher during repeated sprint bouts (9.5 ± 0.7 W/kg vs. 9.0 ± 0.7 W/kg & 12.0 ± 1.2 W/kg vs. 11.4 ± 1.4 W/kg), hemoglobin significantly increased (149.1 ± 10.3 g/L) in comparison to placebo (143.4 ± 8.7 g/L) (p = 0.05). No differences existed between conditions for all oxygen consumption values, 16.1 km time trial measures and lactate threshold tests (p > 0.05). In conclusion, chlorella may pose as an additional supplement for cyclists to consider, particularly for those cyclists who want to improve their sprinting.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Gurney
- School of Life Sciences, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, England
- Division of Surgery & Interventional Science, University College London, London, England
| | - James Brouner
- School of Life Sciences, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, England
| | - Owen Spendiff
- School of Life Sciences, Kingston University, Kingston upon Thames, England
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Je S, Yamaoka Y. Biotechnological Approaches for Biomass and Lipid Production Using Microalgae Chlorella and Its Future Perspectives. J Microbiol Biotechnol 2022; 32:1357-1372. [PMID: 36310359 PMCID: PMC9720082 DOI: 10.4014/jmb.2209.09012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
Heavy reliance on fossil fuels has been associated with increased climate disasters. As an alternative, microalgae have been proposed as an effective agent for biomass production. Several advantages of microalgae include faster growth, usage of non-arable land, recovery of nutrients from wastewater, efficient CO2 capture, and high amount of biomolecules that are valuable for humans. Microalgae Chlorella spp. are a large group of eukaryotic, photosynthetic, unicellular microorganisms with high adaptability to environmental variations. Over the past decades, Chlorella has been used for the large-scale production of biomass. In addition, Chlorella has been actively used in various food industries for improving human health because of its antioxidant, antidiabetic, and immunomodulatory functions. However, the major restrictions in microalgal biofuel technology are the cost-consuming cultivation, processing, and lipid extraction processes. Therefore, various trials have been performed to enhance the biomass productivity and the lipid contents of Chlorella cells. This study provides a comprehensive review of lipid enhancement strategies mainly published in the last five years and aimed at regulating carbon sources, nutrients, stresses, and expression of exogenous genes to improve biomass production and lipid synthesis.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sujeong Je
- Division of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Republic of Korea
| | - Yasuyo Yamaoka
- Division of Biotechnology, The Catholic University of Korea, Bucheon 14662, Republic of Korea,Corresponding author Phone: +82-2-2164-4034 Fax: +82-2-2164-4778 E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Quantifying the Impact of Algae Supplement on Blood Pressure: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Curr Probl Cardiol 2022; 47:101336. [PMID: 35870546 DOI: 10.1016/j.cpcardiol.2022.101336] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2022] [Accepted: 07/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
The impact of Algae supplements and its extract on blood pressure has not concluded yet. The aim of this systematic review meta-analysis is to evaluate the antihypertensive activity of this group marine organism on human. Alga was used in some studies as capsules (from 500 mg to 8 g) and the follow-up duration changed from 17 days to 9 months. The difference in standardized mean and its corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) was applied as the effect size of algae supplementation on systolic and diastolic blood pressure. Based on the results, a meta-analysis of 10 studies with baseline effect control demonstrated that there was no difference in the mean systolic blood pressure in the two groups SMD (95%CI): -1.05 (-2.85,0.76), but a significant difference in the mean diastolic blood pressure was observed and showed that the mean diastolic blood pressure in the treatment group was lower than the control group SMD(95%CI): -2.23 (-4.35,-0.11). A meta-analysis of 4 studies with no baseline control effect did not show significant results on both blood pressure. The evidence to support this systematic review meta-analysis requires more investigation and future large scale RCT clinical trial to confirm the results.
Collapse
|
5
|
Gurney T, Spendiff O. Algae Supplementation for Exercise Performance: Current Perspectives and Future Directions for Spirulina and Chlorella. Front Nutr 2022; 9:865741. [PMID: 35321288 PMCID: PMC8937016 DOI: 10.3389/fnut.2022.865741] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2022] [Accepted: 02/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Nutritional clinical trials have reported algae such as spirulina and chlorella to have the capability to improve cardiovascular risk factors, anemia, immune function, and arterial stiffness. With positive results being reported in clinical trials, researchers are investigating the potential for algae as an ergogenic aid for athletes. Initial studies found spirulina and chlorella supplementation to increase peak oxygen uptake and time to exhaustion, with the mechanistic focus on the antioxidant capabilities of both algae. However, a number of oxidative stress biomarkers reported in these studies are now considered to lack robustness and have consequently provided equivocal results. Considering the nutrient complexity and density of these commonly found edible algae, there is a need for research to widen the scope of investigation. Most recently algae supplementation has demonstrated ergogenic potential during submaximal and repeated sprint cycling, yet a confirmed primary mechanism behind these improvements is still unclear. In this paper we discuss current algae supplementation studies and purported effects on performance, critically examine the antioxidant and ergogenic differing perspectives, and outline future directions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tom Gurney
- *Correspondence: Tom Gurney, ; orcid.org/0000-0002-2490-2960
| | | |
Collapse
|
6
|
Miyachi M. Summary of the 9th Life Science Symposium: integration of nutrition and exercise sciences. Nutr Rev 2020; 78:40-45. [PMID: 33259611 DOI: 10.1093/nutrit/nuaa083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
The Life Science Symposium held by the Nutrition Research Committee of the International Life Sciences Institute (ILSI) Japan in 2018, "Fusion of Nutrition and Exercise Sciences Leading to Extension of Healthy Life Expectancy," covered current topics in the science of nutrition and exercise to address extending healthy life expectancy. Presentation topics included (1) lifestyle and gut microbiota; (2) how to use lipids in sports nutrition; (3) the effect and molecular mechanism of improvement of arteriosclerosis by exercise and nutrition; (4) physical activity and nutrition that support brain function; (5) skeletal muscles and food ingredients that support healthy longevity; (6) measures against sarcopenia by exercise and nutrient intake; (7) physical activity/exercise for disease prevention; (8) nutritional epidemiology research for the Japanese population; (9) new developments in health science in viewed from nutrition and intestinal flora; (10) why do Asians develop nonobese metabolic disease?; and (11) social implementation of the health promotion program by ILSI Japan. The speakers emphasized the promotion of research on exercise and nutrition interactions and encouraged social implementation of the research results in public and private sectors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Motohiko Miyachi
- Department of Physical Activity Research, National Institutes of Biomedical Innovation, Health and Nutrition, Tokyo, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fujie S, Hasegawa N, Horii N, Inoue K, Uchida M, Iemitsu M. Effects of combined exercise training and Chlorella intake on vasorelaxation mediated by nitric oxide in aged mice. Appl Physiol Nutr Metab 2020; 46:479-484. [PMID: 33186051 DOI: 10.1139/apnm-2020-0543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Chronic Chlorella intake and aerobic exercise training reduce arterial stiffness and increase circulating nitric oxide (NO) levels, which has beneficial effects. This study aimed to clarify the combined aortic NO-mediated effects of chronic Chlorella intake and aerobic exercise training on endothelial vasorelaxation in aged mice. In this study, 38-week-old male senescence-accelerated mouse prone 1 (SAMP1) mice were divided into aged sedentary control (Con), aerobic exercise training (AT; voluntary wheel running for 12 weeks), Chlorella intake (CH; 0.5% Chlorella powder in normal diet), and AT and CH combined (AT+CH) groups. Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation by addition of acetylcholine to the isolated mouse aortic rings was significantly higher in the AT, CH, and AT+CH groups than in the Con group; a significantly greater effect was seen in the AT+CH group than in the AT and CH groups. Similarly, plasma and arterial nitrite/nitrate levels and arterial endothelial NO synthase phosphorylation were significantly higher in the AT, CH, and AT+CH groups than in the Con group; the AT+CH group had higher values than the AT and CH groups. Thus, chronic Chlorella intake combined with aerobic exercise training had pronounced effects on endothelial vasorelaxation in aged mice via an additive increase in arterial NO production. Novelty: Endothelium-dependent vasorelaxation was improved by Chlorella intake and exercise. Chlorella intake and exercise increased arterial Akt/eNOS/NO signaling. This combination approach further improved vasorelaxation via arterial NO production.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Shumpei Fujie
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Natsuki Hasegawa
- Research Organization of Science and Technology, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Naoki Horii
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan.,Japan Society for the Promotion of Science, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Kenichiro Inoue
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Masataka Uchida
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| | - Motoyuki Iemitsu
- Faculty of Sport and Health Science, Ritsumeikan University, Shiga, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Effects of Tetraselmis chuii Microalgae Supplementation on Ergospirometric, Haematological and Biochemical Parameters in Amateur Soccer Players. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2020; 17:ijerph17186885. [PMID: 32967151 PMCID: PMC7560093 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph17186885] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2020] [Revised: 09/17/2020] [Accepted: 09/18/2020] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
This study aimed to analyse the effects of Tetraselmis chuii (TC) microalgae supplementation during thirty days on ergospirometric, haematological and biochemical parameters in amateur soccer players. Thirty-two amateur soccer players divided into a control group (CG; n = 16; 22.36 ± 1.36 years; 68.36 ± 3.53 kg) and a supplemented group (SG; n = 16; 22.23 ± 2.19 years; 69.30 ± 5.56 kg) participated in the double-blind study. SG ingested 200 mg of the TC per day, while CG ingested 200 mg per day of lactose powder. Supplementation was carried out for thirty days. The participants performed a maximal treadmill test until exhaustion. The ergospirometric values at different ventilatory thresholds and haematological values were obtained after the test. Heart rate decreased after supplementation with TC (p < 0.05). Oxygen pulse, relative and absolute maximum oxygen consumption increased in SG (pre vs. post; 19.04 ± 2.53 vs. 22.08 ± 2.25; 53.56 ± 3.26 vs. 56.74 ± 3.43; 3.72 ± 0.35 vs. 3.99 ± 0.25; p < 0.05). Haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin increased in SG (pre vs. post; 15.12 ± 0.87 vs. 16.58 ± 0.74 p < 0.01; 28.03 ± 1.57 vs. 30.82 ± 1.21; p < 0.05). On the other hand, haematocrit and mean platelet volume decreased in SG (p < 0.05). TC supplementation elicited improvements in ergospirometric and haematological values in amateur soccer players. TC supplementation could be valuable for improving performance in amateur athletes.
Collapse
|
9
|
Bito T, Okumura E, Fujishima M, Watanabe F. Potential of Chlorella as a Dietary Supplement to Promote Human Health. Nutrients 2020; 12:E2524. [PMID: 32825362 PMCID: PMC7551956 DOI: 10.3390/nu12092524] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/26/2020] [Revised: 08/04/2020] [Accepted: 08/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlorella is a green unicellular alga that is commercially produced and distributed worldwide as a dietary supplement. Chlorella products contain numerous nutrients and vitamins, including D and B12, that are absent in plant-derived food sources. Chlorella contains larger amounts of folate and iron than other plant-derived foods. Chlorella supplementation to mammals, including humans, has been reported to exhibit various pharmacological activities, including immunomodulatory, antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihypertensive, and antihyperlipidemic activities. Meta-analysis on the effects of Chlorella supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors have suggested that it improves total cholesterol levels, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, systolic blood pressure, diastolic blood pressure, and fasting blood glucose levels but not triglycerides and high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels. These beneficial effects of Chlorella might be due to synergism between multiple nutrient and antioxidant compounds. However, information regarding the bioactive compounds in Chlorella is limited.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Tomohiro Bito
- Department of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8553, Japan;
| | - Eri Okumura
- Sun Chlorella Corporation, Kyoto 600-8177, Japan; (E.O.); (M.F.)
| | - Masaki Fujishima
- Sun Chlorella Corporation, Kyoto 600-8177, Japan; (E.O.); (M.F.)
| | - Fumio Watanabe
- Department of Agricultural, Life and Environmental Sciences, Faculty of Agriculture, Tottori University, Tottori 680-8553, Japan;
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Otsuki T, Namatame H, Yoshikawa T, Zempo-Miyaki A. Combined aerobic and low-intensity resistance exercise training increases basal nitric oxide production and decreases arterial stiffness in healthy older adults. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2019; 66:62-66. [PMID: 32001958 PMCID: PMC6983435 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.19-81] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 10/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Meta-analyses have concluded that combined aerobic and high-intensity or moderate-intensity resistance exercise training has no effects on arterial stiffness. However, a recent study demonstrated that combined aerobic training and resistance training using rubber bands increases basal nitric oxide (NO) production and decreases arterial stiffness with marked reduction of body weight in obese adolescent girls. To investigate whether combined aerobic and low-intensity resistance training increases basal NO production and decreases arterial stiffness without body weight reduction in older adults, 27 healthy older individuals participated in a 6-week program as a part of the training group (mean body mass index, 21 kg/m2; walking and resistance training using one’s body weight) or the control group (22 kg/m2, asked not to modify their lifestyle). The exercise intervention increased aerobic capacity, muscle strength, and plasma concentrations of nitrite/nitrate (end products of NO) and decreased pulse wave velocity (an index of arterial stiffness) without changes in body weight. In the control group, there were no differences in these measures before and after the study period. These results suggest that combined aerobic and low-intensity resistance exercise training increases basal NO production and decreases arterial stiffness in healthy older adults.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Otsuki
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Hayate Namatame
- Graduate School of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Toru Yoshikawa
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Asako Zempo-Miyaki
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Fallah AA, Sarmast E, Habibian Dehkordi S, Engardeh J, Mahmoodnia L, Khaledifar A, Jafari T. Effect of Chlorella supplementation on cardiovascular risk factors: A meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Clin Nutr 2018; 37:1892-1901. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clnu.2017.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2017] [Revised: 08/16/2017] [Accepted: 09/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
|
12
|
Otsuki T, Shimizu K, Zempo-Miyaki A, Maeda S. Changes in salivary flow rate following Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2016; 59:45-8. [PMID: 27499578 PMCID: PMC4933694 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.16-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2016] [Accepted: 02/07/2016] [Indexed: 01/26/2023] Open
Abstract
Decreases in saliva secretion compromise food mastication and swallowing, reduce mucosal immune function, and increase the risk for oral diseases like dental caries. Chlorella is a green alga that contains a variety of nutrients including amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. In our previous study, Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation did not affect salivary flow rates in healthy young individuals, but Chlorella-derived supplementation attenuated a decrease in saliva secretion that was observed during a kendo training camp. Hence, we hypothesized that Chlorella-derived supplementation increases saliva secretion in individuals with lower rates of saliva flow. Sixty-four subjects took Chlorella-derived tablets for four weeks. Before and after supplementation, saliva samples were collected by chewing cotton. In the complete study group, there was no difference in saliva production before and after supplementation (1.91 ± 0.11 ml/min before vs 2.01 ± 0.12 ml/min after). Analysis of subgroups based on saliva production before supplementation found an increase in saliva secretion in the lower saliva flow group (1.18 ± 0.06 vs 1.38 ± 0.08 ml/min), but no change in the higher saliva flow group (2.63 ± 0.11 vs 2.64 ± 0.15 ml/min). These results suggest that Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation increases saliva production in individuals with lower levels of saliva secretion.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Otsuki
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120, Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Shimizu
- Department of Sports Sciences, Japan Institute of Sports Sciences, 3-15-1 Nishigaoka, Kita-ku, Tokyo 115-0056, Japan; Sports Research & Development Core, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Asako Zempo-Miyaki
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120, Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Seiji Maeda
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Otsuki T, Shimizu K, Maeda S. Changes in arterial stiffness and nitric oxide production with Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation in middle-aged and older individuals. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2015; 57:228-32. [PMID: 26566309 PMCID: PMC4639594 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.15-86] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2015] [Accepted: 08/03/2015] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlorella is a unicellular green alga, which contains a variety of nutrients including amino acids, dietary fibers, n-3 unsaturated fatty acid, vitamins, and minerals. We previously demonstrated that Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation decreases arterial stiffness in young men. However, mechanisms underlying the reduction in arterial stiffness by Chlorella-derived supplementation and the effect in middle-aged and older individuals have remained unexplored. This study tested our hypothesis that Chlorella-derived supplementation improves arterial stiffness via an increase in nitric oxide (NO, a endothelium-derived relaxing factor) production in middle-aged and older individuals. Thirty-two subjects between 45 and 75 years of age assigned to placebo and Chlorella groups in a double-blinded manner and took respective tablets for 4 weeks. Before and after the supplementations, brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV, an index of arterial stiffness) and plasma nitrite/nitrate (NOx, end product of NO) concentration were measured. There was no difference in baPWV between before and after the placebo intake, but baPWV decreased after the Chlorella supplementation. Changes in baPWV with the Chlorella supplementation were correlated with those in plasma NOx concentration. We concluded that Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation decreases arterial stiffness in middle-aged and older individuals. It may be associated with increase in NO production by vascular endothelium.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Otsuki
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Kazuhiro Shimizu
- Sports Research & Development Core, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Seiji Maeda
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Otsuki T, Maeda S, Mukai J, Ohki M, Nakanishi M, Yoshikawa T. Association between plasma sLOX-1 concentration and arterial stiffness in middle-aged and older individuals. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2015; 57:151-5. [PMID: 26388674 PMCID: PMC4566029 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.15-27] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2015] [Accepted: 05/06/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Lectin-like oxidized low-density lipoprotein receptor-1 (LOX-1) is implicated in vascular endothelial function. Vascular endothelial function is a potent regulator of arterial stiffness, an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease. However, it is unknown whether LOX-1 is associated with arterial stiffness. Plasma concentrations of soluble LOX-1 (sLOX-1) and brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity (baPWV, an index of arterial stiffness) were measured in 143 individuals between 51 and 83 years of age. Plasma sLOX-1 concentration was correlated with baPWV (r = 0.288, p = 0.0005). In stepwise regression analysis, plasma sLOX-1 concentration was associated with baPWV, after adjusting for age; body mass index; blood pressure; heart rate; blood levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, hemoglobin A1c, and insulin; sex; and use of antihypertensives, lipid-lowering agents, and other medications (R2 = 0.575, p<0.0001). Multiple logistic regression demonstrated that plasma sLOX-1 concentration was independently associated with elevated baPWV (≥14.0 m/s; odds ratio, 1.01; 95% confidence interval, 1.00–1.03; p = 0.03). These results suggest that LOX-1 is associated with arterial stiffness.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Otsuki
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Seiji Maeda
- Faculty of Health and Sport Sciences, University of Tsukuba, 1-1-1 Tennoudai, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-8577, Japan
| | - Jun Mukai
- Biomarker Science Co., Ltd., 103-5 Tanaka Monzen-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8225, Japan
| | - Makoto Ohki
- Biomarker Science Co., Ltd., 103-5 Tanaka Monzen-cho, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8225, Japan
| | - Mamoru Nakanishi
- Molecular Gastroenterology and Hepatology, Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| | - Toshikazu Yoshikawa
- Kyoto Prefectural University of Medicine, 465 Kajii-cho, Kamigyo-ku, Kyoto 602-8566, Japan
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Mohd Zainudin M, Zakaria Z, Megat Mohd Nordin NA. The use of Piper sarmentosum leaves aqueous extract (Kadukmy™) as antihypertensive agent in spontaneous hypertensive rats. Altern Ther Health Med 2015; 15:54. [PMID: 25887182 PMCID: PMC4367816 DOI: 10.1186/s12906-015-0565-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2014] [Accepted: 02/19/2015] [Indexed: 11/10/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The National Health and Morbidity Survey in 2011 estimated that 35.1% (5.7 million) of Malaysian adults aged 18 and older suffer from hypertension. Hypertension is still treated by conventional medicine despite its exact aetiology being unknown. Studies showed that oxidative stress and low availability of nitric oxide (NO) causes an increase in vascular wall tension and increase blood pressure. Piper sarmentosum (PS) a traditional Malay herbal plant is well known for its high antioxidant content. Antioxidant is useful in improving cardiovascular diseases particularly hypertension. Thus, it is beneficial to determine the effect of PS leaves aqueous extract (Kadukmy™) on the blood pressure, NO level, oxidative stress markers and serum cholesterol level of the Spontaneous Hypertensive Rats (SHR). METHODS Rats were devided into five groups consisting of three treatment groups and two control groups. Baseline blood investigations were done before and following commencement of treatment. Spontaneous hypertensive rats were treated for 28 consecutive days and the blood pressure was measured weekly. RESULTS Kadukmy™ administration showed a significant reduction in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP) and mean arterial pressure (MAP) (P < 0.05), increased serum NO level (P < 0.05), reduced serum malondialdehyde (MDA) level (P < 0.05) and reduction of serum total cholesterol level in groups treated with Kadukmy-1™. CONCLUSIONS The result of the present study revealed that Kadukmy™ exerts its antioxidant activity to reduce oxidative stress damage, increase NO production and able to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol level.
Collapse
|
16
|
Umemoto S, Otsuki T. Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation increases aerobic endurance capacity in young individuals. J Clin Biochem Nutr 2014; 55:143-6. [PMID: 25320462 PMCID: PMC4186384 DOI: 10.3164/jcbn.14-58] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2014] [Accepted: 04/30/2014] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Chlorella, a unicellular green alga, contains a variety of nutrients including amino acids, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. A previous animal study found that maximal swimming time in mice increased after 14 days on a diet including Chlorella powder compared to no change in swimming performance on a normal diet. However, it is currently unknown whether Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation increases aerobic endurance capacity in humans. We investigated the effects of Chlorella-derived supplementation on peak oxygen uptake during incremental maximal cycling in young individuals using a double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study design. Seven men and three women (mean age, 21.3 year) were allocated to placebo or Chlorella tablets (15 tablets × twice per day) for 4 weeks, with at least a 6-week washout period between trials, in a randomized order. Peak oxygen uptake significantly increased after Chlorella supplementation (before vs after, 37.9 ± 1.9 vs 41.4 ± 1.9 ml/kg/min, p = 0.003), but not with placebo (39.4 ± 2.2 vs 40.1 ± 2.1 ml/kg/min, p = 0.38). The change in peak oxygen uptake over the 4-week trial was significantly greater in the Chlorella trial than in the placebo trial (3.5 ± 0.9 vs 0.7 ± 0.8 ml/kg/min, p = 0.03). These results suggest that Chlorella-derived multicomponent supplementation increases aerobic endurance capacity in young individuals.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sachiro Umemoto
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| | - Takeshi Otsuki
- Faculty of Sport and Health Sciences, Ryutsu Keizai University, 120 Ryugasaki, Ibaraki 301-8555, Japan
| |
Collapse
|