Algae Effects in Markers of Cardiovascular Risk and Gut Microbiome: a Placebo-controlled Randomized Double-blind Trial

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating how algae supplements may affect markers of cardiovascular risk and the gut microbiome in adults aged 50 and older who have certain cardiovascular or metabolic conditions. The study focuses on the impact of Spirulina Arthrospira platensis (a microalgae) and Gelidium corneum (a macroalgae) on blood lipid levels, blood pressure, inflammation, and microbiota composition. The microbiome, often called the "second genome," influences heart and vascular health through metabolites like trimethylamine-N-oxide and short-chain fatty acids. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups to receive either Spirulina Arthrospira platensis, Gelidium corneum, or a placebo. Each supplement is taken as four capsules daily, split into two doses with two capsules in the morning and two in the evening, for 20 weeks. The study includes three clinical evaluations: two before starting supplementation and one after the 20-week intervention period. During the study, participants will undergo assessments of vascular health, nutrition, and physical activity, along with collections of blood, urine, saliva, and stool samples. These will be analyzed for biomarkers such as plasma trimethylamine-N-oxide and short-chain fatty acids, oral and gut microbiota, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, inflammatory markers, and kidney function. The study aims to measure changes in these factors over time to understand the potential benefits of algae supplementation on cardiovascular health.

Algae Effects in Markers of Cardiovascular Risk and Gut Microbiome