The Use of Microalgae-Based Functional Foods in Family Medicine - Bektaş, Tayfun (2025)
Microalgae, including genera such as Spirulina sp., Chlorella sp., and Haematococcus sp., are gaining prominence as sources of functional food ingredients due to their rich profiles of bioactive compounds. This paper systematically analyses microalgae-based functional foods' nutritional and therapeutic potential and evaluates their relevance in preventive and integrative family medicine. Through a structured literature review using PRISMA guidelines, 67 peer-reviewed articles were analyzed to assess clinical efficacy, safety, regulatory frameworks, and applicability in primary care. The evidence suggests that microalgae supplementation can enhance metabolic health, modulate immune function, and reduce oxidative stress. Despite regulatory advancements, challenges persist regarding dosage standardization and clinical integration. The study concludes that microalgae hold substantial promise as dietary adjuncts in family medicine, warranting further clinical validation.
Keywords: cc-by-nc-4.0