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Spirulina


Spirulina refers to a large number of blue-green algae. This supplement contains phenylalanine which is claimed to be an appetite suppressant.

It is a rich source of nutrients and does have some health benefits including lowering cholesterol. However, in 1981, the FDA declared that it did not help in weight loss.

Because spirulina contains phenylalanine, it should not be taken by people who have phenylketonuria (PKU).

It is important you discuss any weight loss or exercise plan with your doctor. Only you and your physician can decide what is best for you. Some people have certain conditions that prevent them from doing all exercises, and goal body weights may be different for different people. You need to discuss all these things with your physician before starting any weight loss or exercise program.

This article was written by John Vickery, MD.

References
Am Fam Physician. 2004 Nov 1;70(9):1731-8.
Lexi-Comp database accessed on 5/1/08.

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Last updated 6/7/09