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Consumption of seaweeds and the human brain

Journal of Applied Phycology volume 29, pages 2377–2398 (2017)Cite this article

Abstract

Much of the content of the human head is brain matter. This functions as the epicenter of human physical existence, including a sense of well-being and the manifestation of human consciousness. The human brain is a precious and complex organ which increases from 350 to 400 g in infants to 1.3–1.4 kg in adults; it comprises ca. 78 % water, 12 % lipid, 8 % protein, and 1 % carbohydrate. Significant progress in behavioral and analytical science has accelerated understanding of the multifaceted responses of the brain to stimuli, whether it be the microbial breakdown products of ingested foods, the influences of environment, or in relation to genetic predisposition. The science of seaweeds, and particularly their broad range of applications, is gathering momentum as studies repeatedly underscore the natural health and nutritional benefits of dietary macroalgae. This article reviews research highlighting the potential impacts of the consumption of a variety of seaweeds on human brain health and includes theories in relation to the benefits to early Homo sapiens. The emphasis is on a varied diet including macroalgae and the gut/microbe/brain axis, the importance of polyunsaturated fatty acids, and the impacts of anti-oxidant activities in neuroprotection. These elements have the capacity to help in the defense of human cognitive disorders, such as dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, depression, bipolar diseases, and adverse conditions characterized by progressive neurodegeneration. Psychological benefits associated with the moderate consumption of a diet fortified with macroalgae are also discussed in terms of reduction of depressive symptoms and furthermore highlighting possible improvements in sexual function.

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Acknowledgements

The work by O.G.M. is supported by Lundbeckfonden (re: R95-A10447) as well as Nordea-fonden (via a center grant to Taste for Life).

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. J.S. Craigie Research Centre, 82 Tribal Street, Cornwallis Park, NS, Canada

    M. Lynn Cornish

  2. 10288 Evangeline Trail, Paradise, NS, Canada

    Alan T. Critchley

  3. MEMPHYS—Center for Biomembrane Physics, Taste for Life—Danish Center for Taste, Department of Physics, Chemistry and Pharmacy, University of Southern Denmark, 55 Campusvej, 5230, Odense M, Denmark

    Ole G. Mouritsen

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  1. M. Lynn Cornish
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  3. Ole G. Mouritsen
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Correspondence to M. Lynn Cornish.

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Cornish, M.L., Critchley, A.T. & Mouritsen, O.G. Consumption of seaweeds and the human brain. J Appl Phycol 29, 2377–2398 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-016-1049-3

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10811-016-1049-3

Keywords

  • Seaweeds
  • Food
  • Essential nutrients
  • Micronutrients
  • Brain development
  • Neural system
  • Neural diseases
  • Polyunsaturated fatty acids
  • Taurine
  • Magnesium
  • Zinc
  • Vitamin B12
  • Iodine
  • Antioxidants