Antioxidants from macroalgae: potential applications in human health and nutrition

doi:2010.25.4.155

Algae > Volume 25(4); 2010 > Article

Algae 2010;25(4): 155-171. doi: https://doi.org/10.4490/algae.2010.25.4.155

M. Lynn Cornish¹^,* and David J. Garbary²

¹James S. Craigie Research Centre, Acadian Seaplants Limited, Cornwallis, NS B0S 1H0, Canada
²Department of Biology, St. Francis Xavier University, Antigonish, NS B2G 2W5, Canada

*Corresponding Author

Email: lcornish@acadian.ca

ABSTRACT

The underlying physiology of algal antioxidant compounds is reviewed in the context of seaweed biology and utilization. The application of seaweed antioxidants in foods, food supplements, nutraceuticals and medicine is considered from the perspective of benefits to human health. We advocate that direct consumption of seaweed products for their antioxidant composition alone provides a useful alternative to non-natural substances, while simultaneously providing worthwhile nutritional benefits. Economic utilization of seaweeds for their antioxidant properties remains in its infancy. This review provides examples ranging from laboratory studies through to clinical trials where antioxidants derived from seaweeds may provide major health benefits that warrant subsequent investigative studies and possible utilization.

Key words: antioxidants; homeostasis; human health; oxidative stress; ROS