The Effects of Marine Algae on Osteoporosis

Background: Osteoporosis is a prevalent bone disease caused by an imbalance between bone formation and resorption.  Nutritional factors are involved in the preven­tion of osteoporosis. Several treatments exist for osteoporosis including bisphosphonates, parathyroid hormone, estrogen therapy, and hormone therapy, which have their own side effects. In the quest for an appropriate treatment for osteoporosis, researchers are now turning toward the nature-based medications such as marine algae (seaweed). The aim of the present review is to investigate the effects of algae on osteoporosis. Materials and Methods: We examined articles indexed in PubMed, Science Direct and Google Scholar databases. It should be noted that human studies on the beneficial effects of seaweed on osteoporosis are rare. Results: Seaweeds have several health benefits including their effect on bone metabolism. Active ingredients of algae have anti-cancer, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties in addition to other features that heal various diseases. Research has shown that algae improve bone metabolism because they are a rich source of essential minerals such as calcium, magnesium, other bone-supporting elements, amino acids and growth factors. Conclusion: The extracted compounds from algae are biocompatible, and do not have the side effects of synthetic medications; therefore, they can be used for osteoporosis treatment.