Spirulina platensis effectively ameliorates anthropometric measurements and obesity-related metabolic disorders in obese or overweight healthy individuals: A randomized controlled trial

Aims: Novel alternative treatments such as food supplements may be an effective approach to weight management. The aim of the present study was to investigate the possible effects of Spirulina Platensis (SP) on anthropometric measures, appetite and metabolic parameters in obese or overweight individuals. Material and methods: A total of fifty-two obese and overweight subjects (25 kg/m(2) <= body mass index (BMI) < 40 kg/m(2)) were randomly selected to be allocated to SP (4 x 500 mg daily tablets along with restricted calorie diet (RCD)) or placebo (placebo tablets along with RCD) for 12 weeks of intervention. Anthropometric measurements and appetite score were assessed at baseline, weeks 6 and 12. Biochemical assessments were performed at baseline and week 12. Results: Thirty-eight participants completed the intervention. Body weight, waist circumference, body fat and BMI significantly reduced in the SP group compared to the placebo group (p < 0.001, p = 0.049, p = 0.049 and p = 0.02, respectively). In the SP group, the reduction triglycerides (TG) and high sensitivity C-reactive protein levels was considerably significant compared to the placebo group (p = 0.03, p = 0.02, respectively). Appetite score was significantly reduced in the SP group compared to the baseline (p < 0.001). Conclusions: This study suggests that spirulina platensis, as a complementary therapy may have beneficial effects on adherence to RCD, management of weight loss and also reduction in TG levels through possible modulatory effects on anti-inflammatory pathways.