At the recent Global Algae Summit 2023, a groundbreaking poster presentation titled "The Potential of Euglena Gracilis for Fundamental Health Enhancement" was showcased, shedding light on the profound health benefits of this unique microorganism.

Addressing Today's Health Concerns

In Japan, a significant concern is the growing gap between life expectancy and healthy life expectancy. While medical treatments play a pivotal role, preventative measures during the pre-disease phase are equally crucial. This approach can help mitigate the onset and progression of diseases. Emphasizing this, the research underscores the importance of nutritional supplementation, anti-stress interventions, and immuno-modulation.

Unveiling the Wonders of Euglena Gracilis

Euglena Gracilis, a single-celled entity classified as microalgae, boasts a rich nutrient profile. One of its standout components is paramylon, a β-1,3-glucan storage polysaccharide. Preliminary research suggests that paramylon may offer anti-stress benefits, improve sleep quality, and modulate the immune system.

Nutritional Powerhouse: Euglena contains a staggering 59 types of nutrients. Incorporating Euglena into one's diet can significantly bolster nutritional intake.

Figure 1 List of nutrients found in Euglenagracilis

Furthermore, studies have shown that adding Euglena to human fecal samples amplifies the proportion and butyrate production of Faecalibacterium, a beneficial butyric acid bacterium.

Figure 2 Faecalibacteriumrate in Feces

Combatting Stress: A clinical trial involving 77 participants who consumed Euglena daily for 12 weeks revealed promising results. Intake of Euglena powder (1000 mg) led to a marked improvement in autonomic balance post-stress and a decrease in irritability and nervousness after 60 minutes. Moreover, sleep satisfaction levels correlated positively with the amount of Euglena consumed over 4, 8, and 12 weeks.

Figure 3 Effects of Daily Euglena Intake on Stress Response and Sleep Satisfaction

Boosting Immunity: Mice that consumed Euglena orally for two weeks exhibited a significantly higher survival rate against influenza virus infections. Their lungs also had a reduced viral load.

Figure 4 Survival rate and the amount of influenza virus in the lungs in mice infected with influenza virus

In human trials, participants in the Euglena group reported fewer days of common cold symptoms over 8 weeks compared to a placebo group.

Figure 5 Frequency of common cold symptoms in human clinical trials

Intriguingly, CD69 expression, indicative of T-cell activation, was observed only in mouse spleen-derived cells with high concentrations of paramylon. Mutant Euglena without paramylon showed no such expression, highlighting paramylon's pivotal role.

Figure 6 CD69 expression level in mouse spleen-derived cells

Conclusion

Euglena Gracilis offers a trifecta of health benefits. It serves as a nutritional supplement, potentially reduces stress symptoms and enhances sleep quality, and might bolster the immune system. Given these benefits, Euglena stands out as a promising agent in fostering overall health and well-being.