The Effects of Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) Supplementation on
Anthropometric Indices, Blood Pressure, Sleep Quality, Mental Health,
Fatigue Status, and Quality of Life in Patients with Ulcerative Colitis:
A Randomized, Double-blinded, Placebo-controlled Trial
Abstract
Background: An emerging body of evidence has highlighted the protective
role of spirulina in human health. Thus, we conducted a randomized
controlled trial to discern the effects of spirulina supplementation on
anthropometric indices, blood pressure, sleep quality, mood, fatigue
status, and quality of life among ulcerative colitis patients. Methods:
Eighty participants with ulcerative colitis were randomly allocated to
receive, either, 1 g/day (two 500 mg capsules) spirulina (n=40) or
placebo (n=40), in a clinical trial for eight weeks. Dietary intake,
physical activity, sleep quality, mental health, fatigue status, and
quality, were assessed for each participant at baseline and trial
cessation. Anthropometric indices and blood pressure were also assessed.
Results: Seventy-three participants completed the intervention. Our
results revealed that spirulina supplementation significantly reduced
sleep disturbances (p=0.03), while no significant changes occurred in
the sleep quality score or other sleep parameters, vs. the placebo group
(p> 0.05). Furthermore, a significant reduction in stress
score (p=0.04) and increase in quality of life (p=0.03) was detected,
but not anxiety, depression, or fatigue scores (p> 0.05).
Additionally, anthropometric indices and blood pressure did not
significantly change (p> 0.05). Conclusion: An improved
quality of life was observed among ulcerative colitis patients following
spirulina supplementation, which could be attributed to improved sleep
disturbance and stress status. Further clinical studies, with longer
duration interventions and suitably powered sample sizes, are necessary
to p elucidate the veracity of our findings.