Effects of Spirulina Supplementation on Mental Health in Healthy Adults
Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age16-65
SponsorArizona State University
About this trial
Spirulina platensis is a form of cyanobacteria, a blue-green algae, and is a superfood most known for being rich in protein, vitamins and minerals, and healthful phytochemicals. Spirulina supports brain health through neuroprotection offered by its antioxidants, anti-inflammatory properties, and hormone regulation.
The aim of this study is to supplement healthy adults from a campus community with 3g of spirulina, daily, for 8 weeks to improve mood and mental acuity in comparison to receiving a placebo.
Eligibility criteria
This trial accepts healthy volunteersQualifiers
healthy adults
ages 18-65
no underlying chronic disease or acute conditions
no autoimmune conditions
Disqualifiers
not have been clinically diagnosed with depression
not taking antidepressants, anxiety, or stress medications, or any other medications
drugs, or supplements that could influence mental capacities
not pregnant or breastfeeding
Trial design
Design model
Parallel
Treatments tested in this trial
Spirulina capsules
Other interventionactive intervention
Placebo
Other interventionno active ingredient
Treatment groups
30 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groupsGroup A: spirulina capsulesExperimental treatment 1 intervention
Group B: PlaceboPlacebo comparator 1 intervention
Trial outcomes
Primary outcomes
1
POMS (profile of mood states questionnaire)
A validated measure consisting of 65 brief phrases, asking how they have personally felt over the last week, including today. The participants were asked to carefully rate their response on a 5-point Likert scale, ranging from 'not at all' to 'extremely'.
Time frame
conducted at baseline and at week 8 (study's end)2
Trail Making Test
The TMT consists of two iterations - versions A and B - and brief samples of each will be provided for the participant to practice prior to the longer, scored version. This is a timed paper and pencil test requiring the participant to connect a series of numbers and/or letters that are randomly arranged.
Time frame
conducted at baseline and at week 8 (study's end)Sponsors and contacts
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Source ClinicalTrials.gov