Work

Arthrospira platensis and Chlorella vulgaris Consumption on Iron Status: A Systematic Review of In Vivo Studies

Year: 2025

Type: review

Abstract: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) affects over two billion people globally and is often treated with conventional iron supplements, which frequently have poor tolerability and limited bioavailability. This systematic review examines the potential of Arthrospira platensis (Spirulina) and Chlorella vulgaris as alternative, bioavailable iron sources. A systematic search was conducted by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, identifying 32 in vivo studies (7 human, 25 animal) that evaluated iron-related outcomes of microalgae supplementation. Both A. platensis and C. vulgaris improved hematological parameters, including hemoglobin, serum ferritin, and red blood cell counts. A. platensis showed more vigorous erythropoietic activity, while C. vulgaris enhanced antioxidant defenses, increasing superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and reducing lipid peroxidation. Both microalgae reduced inflammation-induced hepcidin levels, thereby supporting improved iron absorption. No significant adverse effects or organ toxicity were reported in any of the included studies. A. platensis and C. vulgaris are safe and effective microalgal supplements that enhance iron status and antioxidant defense, presenting promising alternatives to conventional iron therapy. However, longer-term human clinical trials are needed to validate these findings and determine optimal dosing strategies.

Source: Molecular Nutrition & Food Research

DOI: 10.1002/mnfr.70318

Authors: Alexandra Lacurezeanu, Dan Cristian Vodnar

Institution: University of Agricultural Sciences and Veterinary Medicine of Cluj-Napoca

Language: English

Topic: Iron Metabolism and Disorders

Subfield: Hematology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Good health and well-being, Zero hunger

Open Access status: hybrid

Estimated APC paid: $4,880