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Lithothamnion

Also known as: Lithothamnion, red marine algae, red algae-derived mineral supplement, Lithothamnion calcareum

Overview

Lithothamnion is a genus of red marine algae, specifically *Lithothamnion calcareum*, that is exceptionally rich in calcium carbonate and a broad spectrum of other essential minerals, including magnesium, manganese, copper, and zinc. It is primarily harvested for its unique multi-mineral composition and utilized as a dietary supplement to support bone health and overall mineral balance. This supplement is commonly employed in the prevention and management of osteoporosis and bone mineral loss. Beyond bone health, research has also explored its potential effects on lipid profiles and gut health. Its natural multi-mineral matrix is believed to offer advantages over single-mineral supplements, such as isolated calcium carbonate, due to potential synergistic effects among its constituent minerals. While research is ongoing, several animal studies, human clinical trials, and some systematic reviews support its benefits, though large-scale randomized controlled trials are still somewhat limited.

Benefits

Lithothamnion offers several evidence-based benefits, primarily centered around bone health. Animal studies consistently demonstrate that mineral extracts from Lithothamnion prevent bone mineral loss and improve bone strength in models of osteoporosis, including ovariectomized rats and mice on high-fat diets. Human studies indicate superior calcium bioavailability, with calcium from Lithothamnion showing approximately 1.5 times higher fractional absorption compared to calcium carbonate in postmenopausal women. This suggests it may be a more effective source of dietary calcium. Furthermore, supplementation with Lithothamnion-derived calcium-rich multi-mineral supplements has shown lipid-lowering effects, including reductions in total cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, particularly in postmenopausal women, though these effects may diminish over time. Preliminary animal research also suggests benefits for gut morphology, immune-related gene expression, and oxidative status, especially when combined with other seaweeds under bacterial challenge. While human data on bone outcomes are promising, more extensive long-term clinical trials are needed to fully establish its efficacy across all potential benefits.

How it works

The primary mechanism of action for Lithothamnion involves providing a highly bioavailable source of calcium and a diverse array of trace minerals crucial for bone mineralization and remodeling. The various minerals present, such as magnesium, manganese, zinc, and copper, act as essential cofactors for enzymes involved in osteoblast function (bone-building cells) and collagen synthesis, which is vital for bone structure. The unique multi-mineral matrix within the algae is thought to enhance the absorption and utilization of calcium compared to isolated calcium salts. Beyond bone, its potential effects on lipid metabolism and gut health may be mediated through the modulation of inflammatory pathways and interactions with the gut microbiota, although these specific mechanisms require further detailed investigation.

Side effects

Lithothamnion supplements are generally considered safe, with no serious adverse effects reported in clinical trials or animal studies to date. Mild gastrointestinal discomfort, such as bloating or constipation, is rare but can occur in some sensitive individuals, similar to other calcium supplements. There are no significant drug interactions or contraindications that have been widely documented in the scientific literature. Studies focusing on specific populations, such as postmenopausal women, have not reported any particular safety concerns. As with any supplement, individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, especially those affecting mineral metabolism or kidney function, should consult a healthcare professional before starting supplementation. Due to its calcium content, excessive intake could theoretically lead to hypercalcemia, though this is unlikely with recommended doses.

Dosage

Effective daily dosages of Lithothamnion in human studies typically range from approximately 500 mg to 1500 mg of calcium derived from the algae's mineral content. It is often recommended to combine Lithothamnion supplementation with vitamin D3 to further enhance calcium absorption and utilization. Animal studies have used body weight-adjusted doses to achieve bone protective effects over periods ranging from 3 to 15 months. For optimal absorption, it is generally advised to take Lithothamnion supplements with meals, consistent with guidelines for other calcium supplements. The supplement is available in various forms, including powders and capsules, all containing the concentrated mineral-rich algae extract. It is important to adhere to the manufacturer's recommended dosage or consult a healthcare professional to determine the appropriate intake for individual needs, especially considering the multi-mineral composition.

FAQs

Is Lithothamnion calcium better absorbed than calcium carbonate?

Yes, human studies indicate that calcium from Lithothamnion has approximately 1.5 times higher fractional absorption compared to calcium carbonate, suggesting superior bioavailability.

Can Lithothamnion replace traditional calcium supplements?

Due to its multi-mineral content and higher bioavailability, Lithothamnion may be a superior alternative, but established clinical guidelines still favor traditional calcium sources pending more large-scale, long-term trials.

Are there benefits beyond bone health?

Preliminary evidence suggests potential benefits for lipid profiles (lowering cholesterol) and gut health, but these effects require further confirmation through more extensive human research.

Is Lithothamnion safe for long-term use?

Available research indicates a good safety profile with no major adverse effects reported in studies, suggesting it is safe for long-term supplementation at recommended doses.

Research Sources

https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2877502/ – This animal study investigated the effects of a mineral-rich Lithothamnion extract on bone health in C57BL/6 mice over 15 months. It found that the extract prevented bone mineral loss and improved bone strength in female mice on a high-fat diet, indicating its potential for bone protection, though sex-specific effects were noted.
https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/b5f8/f163cf53f452661162ad0ec6a3bf73463e13.pdf – This research included a human absorption study with 10 postmenopausal women, demonstrating that calcium from Lithothamnion had 1.57 times higher fractional absorption than calcium carbonate. It also presented animal data showing the multi-mineral complex improved bone structure and mechanical properties in ovariectomized rats, highlighting its superior bioavailability and bone benefits.
https://www.cambridge.org/core/journals/british-journal-of-nutrition/article/effects-of-supplementation-with-a-calciumrich-marinederived-multimineral-supplement-and-shortchain-fructooligosaccharides-on-serum-lipids-in-postmenopausal-women/A72C81DBB790EE164D4827EC3D5BE82B – This human randomized controlled trial, with a 4-year follow-up, investigated the effects of a calcium-rich marine-derived multi-mineral supplement on serum lipids in postmenopausal women. It found that supplementation lowered total and LDL cholesterol during the intervention period, although these effects diminished over time, and no adverse events were reported.
https://iris.unibs.it/retrieve/6b845fe2-57ac-4954-8266-3db30bc335be/fvets-1-1430347.pdf – This source, likely an animal study, explored the effects of Lithothamnion combined with other seaweeds on gut morphology, immune-related gene expression, and oxidative status under bacterial challenge. It suggests potential benefits for gut and immune health, indicating a broader range of physiological effects beyond bone health.