From ancient food to modern supplement: Algae’s rise is finally making waves in the health and wellness world.

As modern diets struggle to meet nutritional needs, algae is emerging as a powerhouse ingredient for health-conscious consumers. This nutrient-rich superfood, consumed for thousands of years, is now being recognised for its potential to address gaps in nutrition while supporting sustainable food systems.

With its exceptional nutrient density and versatility, algae is far more than just a trend; it’s paving the way for the future of food and supplements.

Algae; simple, plant-like organisms that can photosynthesise and live in water, range from microscopic microalgae to large seaweeds. While trees are often credited with providing oxygen, algae, particularly phytoplankton, are responsible for producing around 70 per cent of the Earth’s oxygen. This makes them crucial to sustaining life on our planet.

Algae can be found in oceans, rivers, lakes, even damp environments, and boast an impressive nutritional profile, containing 60 per cent vegetarian protein, iron, vitamin B5, B12, vitamin C, and more. Its key strength lies in its bioavailability — the body can easily absorb its nutrients, making it a superior option compared to many traditional supplements.

Watch our partner film produced with pioneering supplement company AquaSource

Caroline Gaskin, a homeopath and natural menopause coach, has been incorporating algae supplements into her practice for over 21 years. “I see a wide variety of people in my practice, from young to elderly, and the algae supplements are a big part of what I do. You’ve got a quality product which is 60 per cent vegetarian protein, and a lot of my clients want vegetarian products. In fact, they want vegan products,” she says.

Caroline Gaskin, homeopath and natural menopause coach.

UK-based company AquaSource, established in 1994, has been a pioneer in algae supplementation. They harvest their organic blue-green algae from Upper Klamath Lake in Oregon, one of America’s cleanest lakes, fed by 17 pure mountain streams.

AquaSource takes great care in preserving the nutrients of their algae. “What Aquasource doesn’t do is use fillers and binders, so the process of filling the capsule is more traditional and takes longer,” explains Caroline. “That might give you a more expensive product, but what it gives you is a much, much higher quality product.”

Instead of freezing their algae, AquaSource uses a bioactive dehydration process that locks in nutrients. This meticulous approach ensures the supplements retain their potency and bioavailability.

Addressing modern dietary challenges

With soil depletion, chemical additives, and highly processed foods, many people are not getting the nutrients they need. As Caroline highlights, our gut health plays a critical role in addressing these deficiencies: “70 per cent of our immune response takes place in the gut, and we need to replace the nutrients we’re missing.

“There’s much less nutrition in the food we eat these days for all sorts of reasons. Our soil’s minerally depleted; we add chemicals to our food and colourings and things that interfere in the way that the gut absorbs nutrients. In the 1930s, we invented the fridge and stopped eating fermented foods. Fermented foods alongside probiotics are one of the things that increase the diversity in the gut flora, and when the gut flora is diverse, we absorb the nutrients from our food. It becomes more bioavailable to us.”

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Algae and hormonal health: A natural ally for women

A growing body of research is highlighting algae’s potential to support hormonal health, particularly for women navigating menopause. Rich in essential nutrients like vitamin B12, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids, algae addresses key deficiencies that can arise during this life stage. These nutrients are critical for reducing inflammation, stabilising mood, and supporting adrenal health.

Some algae varieties, such as spirulina, contain phytoestrogens — plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. These can help alleviate common menopausal symptoms like hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings. Additionally, algae supports gut health by acting as a prebiotic, promoting a diverse microbiome that is essential for nutrient absorption and hormonal regulation.

“Algae is very nutrient dense in terms of things like its vitamin B5, B12, vitamin C, and it’s very iron rich,” explains Caroline. “When we’ve got a product like that which we can absorb easily, it really wins compared to a lot of traditional supplements, which might be very difficult for us to absorb.”

As an added bonus, red algae offers bioavailable calcium and magnesium, essential for maintaining bone density — a critical concern for women in post-menopause. With its unique combination of nutrients and bioactive compounds, algae is positioning itself as a natural ally for women’s health.

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The evolution of algae supplements

With 20 per cent more people in the UK now taking supplements daily, algae represents a compelling solution to modern nutritional challenges. 

“If we don’t improve our agricultural practices, if we continue to erode the soil, we’re going to need these high-quality supplements more than ever,” Caroline stresses.

Since 2019, AquaSource have doubled the strength of their probiotics and introduced red algae, a natural source of organic calcium, into their Start Easy programme.

Can algae be sourced sustainably?

The projected growth of the world’s population over the next few decades means food production will need to rise by at least 50 per cent, prompting urgency in the search for new, sustainable protein sources. Microalgae, with a relatively low environmental footprint compared to traditional livestock farming or crop-based protein sources like soya, are well-positioned to meet this demand while addressing key environmental concerns such as greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, and land degradation.

However, as with any emerging industry, the rapid growth of algae production raises concerns about the environmental impact of harvesting and cultivation methods. Wild algae harvesting can place a strain on marine ecosystems if not carefully managed — which is why innovative cultivation methods such as controlled bioreactors and vertical farming are being developed.

By cultivating algae in controlled environments, companies can minimise environmental risks, such as the disruption of local ecosystems, while maximising the yield and nutritional value of the algae.

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5 ways algae can support hormone regulation

1. Algae is rich in micronutrients critical for hormone balance:

  • Vitamin B12 and B6: Found in algae, these vitamins play a role in the production of neurotransmitters like serotonin, which can help regulate mood swings during menopause.
  • Magnesium: Algae, particularly red algae, is a good source of magnesium, which supports adrenal health and helps regulate stress hormones.
  • Omega-3 fatty acids: Algae oil is an excellent plant-based source of omega-3s, which are essential for reducing inflammation and supporting brain function, both crucial during menopause.

2. Phytoestrogens in algae mimic estrogen

Some species of algae, such as spirulina, contain phytoestrogens — plant-based compounds that mimic estrogen in the body. These can help alleviate symptoms of menopause caused by declining estrogen levels, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and mood swings.

3. Algae’s role in reducing inflammation

Menopause is often associated with increased inflammation, which can exacerbate symptoms like joint pain and mood fluctuations. Algae, particularly spirulina and chlorella, are rich in antioxidants like phycocyanin, which help reduce oxidative stress and inflammation.

4. Gut health and hormonal regulation

As 70 per cent of the immune system is housed in the gut, a healthy gut microbiome is essential for hormone regulation. Algae supports gut health by acting as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria.  

5. Supports bone health

As estrogen declines, women are at increased risk of osteoporosis. Algae, particularly red algae, is a rich source of bioavailable calcium and magnesium, which are crucial for maintaining bone density during and after menopause.

While algae shows promise, the effectiveness of its impact on hormonal health can vary depending on the type of algae, its concentration, and how it is incorporated into the diet. It’s always best to consult a healthcare provider for personalised advice, especially if combining supplements with other medications.

6 interesting facts about this amazing superfood

  • Algae can be used as biofuel: Certain types of algae produce oils that can be converted into biofuels. This has sparked interest in algae as a renewable energy source, potentially offering a more sustainable alternative to fossil fuels.
  • Algae can help fight climate change: Algae absorb carbon dioxide during photosynthesis, making them potential tools for capturing excess CO2 from the atmosphere. Some algae-based technologies are being explored for their ability to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Algae has been used for thousands of years: Ancient civilizations, such as the Aztecs and the Japanese, have long harvested algae for food, medicine, and even as a source of building materials. In some cultures, algae remains a dietary staple.
  • Algae can be cultivated in the desert: Algae can be grown in arid regions with minimal water, making them an ideal crop for areas facing water scarcity. Algae farms are being developed in deserts and other water-scarce areas to produce food, fuel, and other products.
  • Algae can clean up pollution: Some types of algae are used in wastewater treatment plants because they can absorb harmful nutrients and contaminants from water. This makes them a natural and eco-friendly solution to water pollution.
  • Some algae are bioluminescent: Certain species of algae, like dinoflagellates, can produce their own light in a process known as bioluminescence. This phenomenon creates glowing waves in the ocean, an enchanting natural display that has fascinated scientists for centuries.