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Spirulina Supplementation for Mood and Mental Acuity

This study is looking at whether taking Spirulina capsules can improve mood and mental sharpness in healthy adults. Spirulina is a blue-green algae rich in nutrients that may support brain health through its antioxidants (substances that protect cells from damage) and anti-inflammatory properties. You might be able to join if you are a healthy adult between 16 and 65 years old, do not have chronic or autoimmune conditions, and do not use alcohol excessively, smoke, or use recreational drugs. The study will compare people taking Spirulina to those taking a placebo (a capsule with no active ingredient) over 8 weeks. Researchers will measure changes in mood using a questionnaire and mental acuity using a test. The current status of this study is unclear.

Study design
This is an interventional study planning to enroll 30 healthy adults. Participants will receive either Spirulina capsules or a placebo.
What's involved
You would take either Spirulina capsules or a placebo daily for 8 weeks. Your mood and mental acuity will be assessed at the beginning and end of the study.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Your mood and mental acuity will be measured at the end of the 8-week study period.

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT06936202

Effects of Spirulina Supplementation on Mental Health in Healthy Adults

Recruiting
NAAges 16–65InterventionalPrevention
Arizona State University
~30 participants
Updated 2025-08-19 on ClinicalTrials.gov
What's tested:Spirulina capsulesPlacebo

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 1 listed site is recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
POMS (profile of mood states questionnaire)
Measured over conducted at baseline and at week 8 (study's end)
+1 more outcome measured

Conditions

Depression
Mental Acuity

Explore related trials

Healthy

Where it's being run

1 sites across 1 states
Arizona1

Who to contact

Carol Johnston, PhD
[email protected]
16024962539
Email the study team

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Do you actually qualify for this trial?

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Eligibility criteria

Inclusion

healthy adults
ages 18-65
no underlying chronic disease or acute conditions
no autoimmune conditions
do not consume alcohol in excess, smoke, use recreational drugs
does not follow restrictive diets
will be recruited from the ASU university campus.

Exclusion

not have been clinically diagnosed with depression
not taking antidepressants, anxiety, or stress medications, or any other medications
drugs, or supplements that could influence mental capacities
not pregnant or breastfeeding
not a competitive athlete

What this trial measures

  • POMS (profile of mood states questionnaire)conducted at baseline and at week 8 (study's end)

    A validated measure consisting of 65 brief phrases, asking how they have personally felt over the last week, including today. The participants were asked to carefully rate their response on a 5-point Likert scale, ranging from 'not at all' to 'extremely'.

  • Trail Making Testconducted at baseline and at week 8 (study's end)

    The TMT consists of two iterations - versions A and B - and brief samples of each will be provided for the participant to practice prior to the longer, scored version. This is a timed paper and pencil test requiring the participant to connect a series of numbers and/or letters that are randomly arranged.