Today, most of our foods are full of toxins while lacking nutrients. And “naturally”, we have been turning to all kinds of supplements to fill the nutritional void. Luckily for us, scientists have found many marine organisms to contain an array of various nutrients.
And one of the newer discoveries is marine phytoplankton, which is not only a major food source for marine life, but it can also yield surprising benefits for human life.
From my perspective, a recent revelation involves marine phytoplankton. This microscopic organism serves as a vital food source for marine life and, remarkably, provides noteworthy phytoplankton benefits for human health.
What Is Marine Phytoplankton
Phytoplankton is a self-feeding microscopic organism. It got its name from the Greek words phyton, which means ‘plant’, and planktos, which means ‘wanderer’ or ‘drifter’.
It contains chlorophyll and requires sunlight to grow so it lives (usually) in the upper parts of the ocean that are well-lit. Phytoplankton converts nitrates, phosphates, and sulfur into proteins, fats, and carbohydrates.
Phytoplankton is known to provide unique contributions to our planet:
- It generates more than half of the atmosphere’s oxygen and transforms carbon dioxide into organic compounds through photosynthesis.
- It also plays an important role in the biochemistry of the oceans because they are at the origin of the diverse biota by forming the base of every food chain in the world’s oceans.
- Contains a number of nutrients that include amino acids, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and many other essential minerals.
Interesting Fact: Phytoplankton is rumored to be 100 times more potent as a superfood than acai berries, resveratrol, and blue algae!
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Marine Phytoplankton Benefits
Phytoplankton is a fairly new supplement to hit the market and therefore lacks scientific proof in regards to our health. However, we will take a look at the existing research, the vitamins and minerals it contains, and how they could potentially benefit us!
Exploring potential marine phytoplankton benefits adds to this emerging supplement’s intrigue.
Cellular Health
Marine phytoplankton provides the necessary electron our cells need to increase their ability to regenerate and get more oxygen. Its essential amino acids and fatty acids help build healthy cell walls that can regenerate correctly.
- Why is this important?
Your body is home to around 75 trillion cells that are working together all day long to keep you alive. They supply your body with energy and keep you functioning. Basically, cells are the building block of the body’s function.
Improved Mood
Marine phytoplankton may be an excellent supplement to help you elevate your mood.
One study showed that consumption of marine phytoplankton improved the mood, ability to focus, and increase enthusiasm and optimism levels.
- Why is this important?
Negative emotions and feelings are a completely normal part of every person’s life. However, if you suffer from depression or generally just feel down most of the time, it is important to look after yourself and your wellbeing.
And although antidepressants can help improve the state of many, they can also cause some unpleasant side effects. We’re talking insomnia, migraines, weight gain, sexual dysfunction, blood sugar imbalances, to name a few.
That’s why we think it’s always worth exploring alternative solutions, such as marine phytoplankton!
Boosts Immune System
Research shows that marine phytoplankton increases the CD3 protein complex levels in the blood, which indicates the presence of T-Lymphocytes that regulate the immune response to antigens (viruses, bacteria, etc.) and their elimination from organic tissues.
- Why is this important?
The immune system protects us from bacteria, viruses, and toxins. It also helps remove harmful cells and foreign substances from our bodies. On the other hand, it also controls the immune responses to harmless triggers such as our own tissue and food.
In other words – without the immune system you don’t have any natural protection against illnesses, so it is extremely important to keep it healthy!
Healthy Heart
Fish has been a popular source of omega-3 fatty acids for quite some time now. Other little sea creatures, such as spirulina and chlorella, have also hit the spotlight in recent years and phytoplankton has just started becoming more known.
You’ll be surprised to find out that phytoplankton is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for your heart health.
Studies show that marine fatty acids can reduce inflammation, prevent the formation of harmful blood clots, ensure a steady heart rate, and lower triglyceride levels. In turn, these effects help reduce the risk of coronary heart disease.
- Why is this important?
Your heart is a muscle and its job is to pump blood to the circulatory systems. It maintains your blood pressure, regulates body temperature, and transports oxygen and nutrients to all parts of your body.
Let’s just put it this way, if your heart stops, the rest of your body stops working. That’s why you absolutely need to take care of it and supply it with healthy nutrients!
Carotenoids
Research shows that marine phytoplankton is an excellent source of naturally occurring carotenoids, which are important sources of antioxidants, anti-inflammatory, and anti-cancer compounds.
There is a high demand for their pharmaceutical applications, and phytoplankton has been the center of attention. That’s because it contains abundant volumes of carotenoids that have a unique composition and are synthesized at a very fast rate.
- Why is this important?
Carotenoids, specifically beta carotene, is converted into vitamin A by our bodies.
Vitamin A helps us maintain healthy skin, immune system, good eye health, and vision. In addition to that, beta carotene has antioxidant functions, which help neutralize free radicals and therefore prevent oxidative stress, which is a base for many chronic illnesses.
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Marine Phytoplankton Side Effects
As of today, there are no reported side effects caused by a phytoplankton supplement.
However, it is important to keep in mind that according to the U.S Food and Drug Administration, the natural toxins that contaminate fish and shellfish are produced mostly by phytoplankton.
Due to the lack of research on the specific supplements, you have no guarantee that your purchased supplement does not contain any toxin-producing species or was not formulated using phytoplankton harvested from toxic waters.
As long as there is not enough scientific evidence to back up the claims, we can’t state that marine phytoplankton is safe or unsafe. If you are looking to incorporate this supplement into your diet, you should consult your doctor or another healthcare provider before using it.
Conclusion
Marine Phytoplankton is a small but mighty organism that can deliver all-round benefits for our health. Whether it is an immune system boost, improving your mood, or keeping your heart healthy – its abilities seem to be truly impressive.
We believe that with further research, we can find out much more about marine phytoplankton and its true benefits and potential for treatments of many conditions!
So, are you going to try it? If you’re looking for something similar with more research behind it, check out our article about spirulina and its benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Marine Phytoplankton safe for daily consumption?
Marine Phytoplankton is generally considered safe for daily consumption when taken in recommended doses. However, individual responses may vary. It’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating any new supplement into your daily routine, especially if you have pre-existing health conditions or are taking medications. In my experience, it’s crucial to prioritize safety and seek professional advice for personalized guidance.
Can Marine Phytoplankton replace other supplements in my routine?
Marine Phytoplankton can be a valuable addition to your supplement routine, offering a spectrum of nutrients. However, it’s essential to note that it may not replace specific supplements tailored to individual needs. In my experience, maintaining a well-balanced and varied supplement regimen is ideal for comprehensive health support. Consult with a healthcare professional to determine the compatibility of Marine Phytoplankton with your existing supplement routine.
How can I ensure the sustainability of marine phytoplankton products?
To ensure the sustainability of marine phytoplankton products, look for brands that prioritize ethical harvesting practices and transparent sourcing. In my experience, choosing products with certifications like MSC or other sustainable labels can be a reliable indicator. Additionally, researching the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility and reading customer reviews can provide insights into its sustainability practices.
Can individuals with dietary restrictions consume marine phytoplankton?
Individuals with dietary restrictions can often consume marine phytoplankton, as it is naturally gluten-, soy-free, and dairy-free. However, always check the product labels for potential allergens or specific dietary concerns. In my experience, consulting with a healthcare professional or nutritionist can provide personalized advice based on individual dietary restrictions and health conditions.
Are there age restrictions for the consumption of marine phytoplankton?
Marine phytoplankton is generally considered safe for individuals of all ages. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare professional before introducing any new supplement, especially for pregnant women, nursing mothers, or individuals with underlying health conditions. In my experience, personalized guidance ensures safe and suitable consumption based on age and individual health circumstances.
