Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 3

Algae, specifically microalgae such as Chlorella, Spirulina, and Dunaliella, are used in the support and management of macular degeneration primarily due to their content of carotenoids, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin. These carotenoids are well-established as beneficial for eye health, and are important components of the macular pigment in the human retina. The Age-Related Eye Disease Study 2 (AREDS2), a large, multicenter clinical trial, found that supplementation with lutein and zeaxanthin can help slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in people at high risk. Algae-derived sources of these carotenoids are increasingly popular as natural, vegetarian alternatives to synthetic or animal-derived supplements.

While the majority of clinical research has focused on lutein and zeaxanthin themselves, rather than algae extracts directly, several studies have verified that carotenoids extracted from algae are bioavailable in humans and can increase serum and macular pigment levels. There is also limited but growing evidence that microalgae may contain additional antioxidant compounds, such as astaxanthin (from Haematococcus pluvialis), which may further benefit retinal health by reducing oxidative stress.

However, direct clinical trials examining algae extracts as a whole (not just isolated carotenoids) in the prevention or treatment of AMD are limited. Therefore, while the use of algae is scientifically plausible and supported by the evidence for its constituent carotenoids, the overall strength of evidence specifically for algae in AMD is moderate, earning a rating of 3 out of 5.

More about algae
More about Macular Degeneration

Other ingredients used for Macular Degeneration

Other health conditions supported by algae

Products containing algae

Nature's Sunshine Super Algae