Research · Randomised controlled trial
Supplementation with spirulina improves glycemic control in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients
Parikh P, Mani U, Iyer U · 2001 · Journal of Nutraceuticals, Functional & Medical Foods
Key finding
Spirulina at 2 g/day significantly reduced fasting blood glucose (by approximately 1.6 mmol/L) and HbA1c in type 2 diabetic patients. Lipid parameters also improved. The effect was seen at a relatively low dose.
Why this matters for consumers
One of the earlier human RCTs demonstrating blood sugar effects. The 2 g/day dose is lower than most subsequent trials, suggesting clinically meaningful effects may occur below the doses commonly recommended. Subsequently included in the Serban 2016 meta-analysis.
Study limitations
Small sample (n=25); short duration (2 months); Indian population; HbA1c change may be overstated given the short duration.
Related studies
Antihyperlipidemic effects of spirulina in patients with type 2 diabetes
Mani et al. · 2000
Supplementation with spirulina in a standard anti-diabetic regimen
Parikh et al. · 2001
Spirulina for human health: a review of its clinical evidence
Lafarga et al. · 2020
Spirulina supplementation and body weight: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Colla et al. · 2020
New research, when it matters
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