The Contribution of Spirulina Platensis Supplementation on COVID-19 Prevention and Hospitalization

Abstract

Background & Aims: Spirulina is a filamentous cyanobacterium known for its high nutritional value and therapeutic properties. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of Spirulina supplementation on coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) prevention and hospitalization. Methods: We studied the state of health among 186 (median age: 47, range: 30-60 years) Greek individuals, non-vaccinated against the COVID-19, for 6 months. Among these, 102 unvaccinated individuals received orally 6 g Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) daily for 6 months. Anthropometric characteristics (height, weight, body mass index / BMI), systolic and diastolic blood pressure, complete blood count and biochemical assessments, were recorded and measured before Spirulina supplementation. Results: Among the 102 unvaccinated individuals who received Spirulina, only 14 (13.7%) contracted SARS-CoV2 (confirmed Delta variant) with mild symptoms and 2 (1.9%) needed hospitalization because of acute viral gastroenteritis. In contrast, among the 84 unvaccinated individuals who did not receive Spirulina, 62 (73.8%) contracted SARS-CoV2 (confirmed Delta variant) with mild symptoms and 17 (20.2%) needed hospitalization. None of the hospitalized patients died. Conclusions: Spirulina supplementation at a dose of 6 g daily can contribute to the war against SARS-CoV2, preventing COVID-19 and reducing the need for hospitalization.