AFA
AFA are whole-cell wild Aphanizomenon flos-aquae cyanobacteria that are harvested from the undisturbed, high-desert Klamath Lake in Southern Oregon. AFA contains a wide assortment of vital nutrients—including high-quality protein and a variety of vitamins and minerals—as well as bioactive molecules, including phycocyanin, unique polysaccharides, carotenoids, and phenylethylamine. Because it is so nutrient-dense, AFA is an excellent way to add supplemental nutrition to the diet.
Health Benefits
AFA is whole cell wild Aphanizomenon flos-aquae cyanobacteria. In addition to offering a well-rounded source of phytonutrients, research has shown that AFA:
- Contains unique polysaccharides, nutrients that support a healthy immune system*
- Contains Phenylethylamine (PEA), nutrients that may help enhance feelings of well-being*
- Provides antioxidant protection against free radicals*
- Contains phytonutrients, amino acids, PUFA’s, and trace minerals*
Mechanism of action
The constituents of AFA have been found to work in three distinct ways:
- Activating a healthy immune response*
- Supporting a positive mood*
- Neutralizing free radicals*
Activating Immunity*
The polysaccharides contained in AFA function as strong immune modulators, which research has been shown to support immune surveillance.* Research done specifically on the polysaccharides in AFA showed strong activation of natural killer (NK) cells—the immune system’s first line of defense—in laboratory tests.*
Supporting positive mood*
AFA contains phenethylamine (PEA), a compound that effects cognitive function and mood by modulating aminergic synapses.* PEA supports positive mood by releasing neurotransmitters (norepinephrine and dopamine).* Epidemiological research has shown that people with low levels of phenylacetic acid (the main metabolite of PEA) are more likely to experience negative mood states and have difficulty focusing.*
Neutralizing Free Radicals*
Many of the compounds of AFA also serve as broad-spectrum antioxidants to help protect cells from damaging free radicals continually produced in the body.* These include phycocyanin, polysaccharides and carotenoids.