St primordial foodv0105v1

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Primordial Food V0105 V1.pmd 1 3/1/2005, 12:52 PM

Prodigious Klamath Lake

Ecology of Klamath Lake

K lamath Lake is the largest freshwater lake in
Oregon (125 miles 2 ; 325 km 2 ) with a watershed
drainage exceeding 3,800 miles2 (9850 km2). This shallow lake with
an average depth of eight feet is flanked by the Cascade Mountains
to the west and the Winema Nattional Forest to the east. It is 4,139
feet above sea level and has two major tributaries, the Williamson
and Wood Rivers, as well as many smaller springs and stream in-
flows, providing Klamath Lake with waters of exceptional purity.
Klamath Lake, along with Tulelake, are the shrunken remnants
of ancient Modoc Lake. There have been many opinions regarding
the age of the Klamath Basin, but the most recent work estimates
the formation of the Klamath bed sediments at the Pliocene epoch,
more than two million years ago. At that time, Modoc Lake is esti-
mated to have covered over a thousand square miles. At the end of
the Pleistocene epoch (about 12,000 years ago), Klamath River be-
gan to form, slowly draining Modoc Lake and lowering its surface
altitude. Sites of higher elevation began to show and to divide Modoc

Eruption of Mt. Mazama—Painting by Paul Rockwood

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At 7,100 feet altitude, Crater Lake is located in the caldera of former Mount
Mazama. Crater Lake is 2,000 feet deep, and for decades its water has been
used as a standard for water purity.

Lake into several smaller bodies of water, leading to today’s Kla-
math Lake and Tulelake.
North of Klamath Lake is located the remnant of Mount Mazama,
originally estimated to stand at 12,500 feet. Nearly 7,000 years ago,
Mount Mazama erupted, pulverizing the top 5,000 feet of the moun-
tain and throwing millions of tons of ashes into the atmosphere. The
magnitude of Mount Mazama’s eruption is estimated at 300 times
that of Mount St. Helens. The ashes covered most of the state of
Oregon and reached as far as seven other states. After the explo-
sion, Mount Mazama collapsed, forming a caldera that is today’s
Crater Lake.
At a depth of more than 2,000 feet, Crater Lake is the deepest
lake in the United States. Its extremely low temperature and purity
create physical characteristics that reflect light in a manner that
gives the water a unique and vibrant deep-blue color. While standing
at the rim of Crater Lake, it is easy to understand the spiritual fasci-
nation that the lake has held for the native people and the early
settlers.

22 •


Crater Lake to Klamath Lake
Nearly 90 percent of the water flowing into Klamath Lake comes
from springs and rivers of exceptional beauty, bringing nearly 5,400
acre-feet of water every day, 650 billion gallons annually. Although
the question remains officially unanswered, most estimates indicate
that the spring waters flowing into Klamath Lake come from Crater
Lake, after a journey of approximately
15 miles through mineral-rich under-
ground aquifers.
Generally, algae are found in bodies
of water that are stagnant or deterio-
rating. Klamath Lake is an exception; it
has always been and is still extremely
robust and supports not only a tremen-
dous biomass of AFA but also fish, wa-
terfowl, and predatory bird species.
When ice was first collected from
Clear waters of a Williamson
River spring the lake in 1906, it was reported to be
green with algae. Lake sucker fish were
so common that people used pitchforks to harvest them. Ospreys
were reported in densities of up to 10 nests per square mile. Today,
the Klamath Basin is still home to the largest wintering congregation
of bald eagles in the lower 48 states and is the largest stopover for
waterfowl in the Pacific flyway.
Klamath Lake is located in a relatively undeveloped area, sur-
rounded by publicly owned land such as the Crater Lake National
Park, the Winema National Forest, the Lower Klamath National
Wildlife Refuge and the Tule Lake National Wildlife Bird Refuge.
With the Cascade Mountains to the west, thousands of square miles
of National Park to the north and east, and the city of Klamath Falls
located downstream at the southern end of the lake, Klamath Lake is
virtually untouched by industrial activity and pollution.

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Stories that Klamath Lake is polluted come from the fact that at certain
seasons, fish die from oxygen deprivation due to the changes brought on by
massive algal growth. During AFA blooms, the water of Klamath Lake can reach
a pH of 11, and dissolved oxygen can go under 3 ppm. This can be deadly for
fish.
Klamath Lake is actually rather pristine. It is devoid of industrial activities
and surrounded by national parks: Crater Lake National Park to the north,
Winema National Forest to the east, and the Cascade Mountains to the west.
The city of Klamath Falls is downstream to the south.

Why AFA Flourishes
AFA is unique in its ability to fix atmospheric nitrogen. This very
characteristic gives it a rare advantage over other types of algae
existing in Klamath Lake. In the harvest season, it grows by con-
suming atmospheric nitrogen and the lake’s available nutrition, cre-
ating an enormous bloom that is virtually 100 percent pure AFA.
Many of the lake’s characteristics are responsible for this un-
usual ecosystem, allowing for such abundant bloom of AFA:

24 •


• FIRST, the lake is so old that it contains 30 feet of mineral-rich
sediment at its bottom, much of it donated by the explosion of
Mount Mazama. In their 1967 study of the lake, Miller and Tash
estimated that the top one inch of the lake’s sediment alone
contains enough nutrients to sustain a full algal bloom.

• SECOND, the average depth is less than tenfeet with a median depth
of about five feet. In more than 50 percent of the lake, you can
stand on the bottom.

• THIRD, the lake is nearly 25 miles long and five miles wide, pro-
viding a longitudinal shape that fosters strong winds and turbu-
lence. When the wind blows, it applies pressure to the shallow
lake’s surface, forcing the water to turn over. The turbulence
grabs the mineral-rich sediment, bringing up into suspension a
wealth of nutrients that further promote algae blooms. This cycle
explains the exceptionally abundant growth of AFA in Klamath
Lake.

View of Mount McLoughlin from the east side of Klamath Lake, where
harvested AFA is brought to shore. Klamath Lake is a wonderful natural
ecosystem filled with abundant wildlife.

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Nontoxicity of AFA

I n the 1960s and ’70s, concerns were raised regarding
the possible neurotoxicity of AFA. At that time, a few samples
of what was thought to be AFA were taken from lakes in New
Hampshire and Europe and were shown to contain neurotoxins.
Classic AFA grows in filamentous colonies about the size of a
small blade of grass. In the original scientific literature, the toxic
samples of AFA were described as “atypical non-colony forming
AFA.” In other words, the toxic strains that were originally identi-
fied and classified as AFA were not typical of AFA.
These few reports created the perception that AFA was a
toxic algae species. However, virtually all samples of AFA taken
throughout the world have failed to contain any neurotoxins. Indeed,
toxicity in AFA was the exception rather than the norm. In Klamath
Lake, nearly ten years of intense testing has failed to reveal the
presence of any neurotoxins in its AFA. In 1998,
In Klamath Lake, the opinion among scientists was that AFA did
nearly ten years of not contain neurotoxins and that the original
intense testing has samples that had been identified as AFA were
failed to reveal the likely another species. Indeed, the boundary be-
presence of tween AFA and some Anabaena species can at
any neurotoxins in times be unclear, mostly pertaining to strains iso-
its AFA. lated and cultivated in laboratory. Anabaena spp. is
known to produce various kinds of neurotoxins.
Recently, a team of scientists at Wright State University used
recent advances in genetics to establish if the original toxic samples
of AFA were genetically identical to the common strains of AFA
shown to be nontoxic. Li et al.7 established that all the toxic strains
of AFA were genetically dissimilar to the nontoxic strains and most
likely belonged to the Anabaena genera. Further work is in progress
in order to clearly identify these original samples and properly re-
name them. The Wright State University study confirms that AFA
growing in Klamath Lake is nontoxic.

26 •


The Water of Klamath Lake1

T he most fascinating and unique characteristics
of the water flowing into Klamath Lake is its color and tem-
perature. Crater Lake is known for its emerald blue water. This
condition is due to its clarity, temperature, and chemical matrix, al-
lowing light to reflect the spectrum of blue to the viewer. It is gener-
ally known that mineral concentrations are the predominant factor
creating this anomaly. Water testing has confirmed that high mineral
content creates this “blue color” condition and is most often seen in
unpolluted high mountain lakes and streams.
Certain minerals have specific color spectrums due to the electri-
cal or ionic activity created by increasing amounts of ions present in
the water. In most cases, minerals are the prime energy conductors
in water.
It was assumed
that the spring sources
supplying Klamath
Lake were naturally
high in mineral concen-
trations due to the blue
color of the springs.
Oddly enough, ad-
vanced testing has re-
Ninety percent of the water flowing into Klamath
vealed the opposite. Lake comes from springs of rare beauty. The water
Several of the main springs from the ground at a temperature of less
than 38°F. The characteristics of the water suggest
springs have very little that it originates from Crater Lake.
entrained minerals, yet
they still have the blue
color.
There is no general consensus of how the “blue water” condi-
tion exists without the required mineral matrix. One obvious expla-
nation is that the effect is not solely derived from minerals alone.

________________________________________
1
This section has been graciously written by Mike Holecek, water expert.

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Conductivity, pH, and specific gravity typically reveal information
assuming the presence of minerals. We must look at the importance
of electrical potential as a possible contributing factor. Looking at
millivolt values (mV) of the source water, we can determine what
the potential for electrical activity is. The mV values are scaled
from positive to negative. The
higher the negative number, the
more electron activity is pos-
sible. A value of +75 mV has
very little potential for electron
activity, whereas a value of -75
mV has a tremendous amount
of electron potential. Testing
the springs at their source re-
veals values of -60 to -80 mV
without the presence of miner-
als, indicating the source water
is highly electrical.
It is widely known that natu-
ral electrical charge does cre-
Aerial view of the Williamson River ate a color phenomenon, known
as the “piezo effect.” This is
caused by the compression of crystalline structures like quartz re-
leasing a static or electrical charge. The resulting silica-quartz piezo
spark is blue-white in color.
The surrounding watershed happens to be rich in quartz sands,
allowing the source water to percolate through it, possibly creating
the piezo effect. This could be a major contributing factor the to
electric-blue color of the spring water.
In addition, water with temperatures of 4ºC (or 39ºF) creates
conditions for maximum density and energetics. Cold water is more
vital and able to distribute minerals, electrical ions, and nutrients
than warm water. The spring sources suppling Klamath Lake range
from 5 to 5.7ºC and are some of the coldest ground water tempera-
tures in the United States.

28 •


In summary, chemical testing confirms the spring source water
to be very low in mineral concentrations but extremely high in elec-
trical potential. This allows the water coming into the lake to have
greater capacity to collect nutrients and minerals, and an increased
ability to respond to sunlight. These unique characteristics help to
create the unusual water environment of Klamath Lake.

Pure spring water in the Williamson River

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The Biochemistry of AFA

O
ver the years, people consuming AFA have
reported benefits related to conditions such as
hypoglycemia, poor memory, Attention Deficit Disorder,
chronic fatigue, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, poor immunity,
skin problems, allergies, asthma, rheumatoid diseases and depres-
sion. Cases have also been reported of significant improvements in
conditions such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, diabetes and myas-
thenia.
In this section, we will discuss the results of studies showing the
various mechanisms of action of AFA in the body. We will also dis-
cuss the nutritional content of AFA and the role of unique nutrients
on human health. We will limit this discussion to nutrients that are
specific to AFA or present in exceptional quantities.

Chlorophyll

A green pigment found in plants, chlorophyll is re
sponsible or the transformation of light energy into
chemical energy. Although chlorophyll is present in
all green vegetables, it is exceptionally abundant in
AFA (about one percent of dry weight). Structur-
ally, chlorophyll is almost identical to heme (also
called hematin), which is the core of hemoglobin,
the molecule responsible for carrying oxygen in the
blood.
Although the biochemical pathway that would al-
low the transformation of chlorophyll into hemo-
globin has never been investigated, data suggests
that eating foods containing high chlorophyll con-
tent could stimulate the synthesis
of hemoglobin in the body. In 1936
Hughes and Latner8 carried an ex-
periment in which they triggered

30 •


severe hemorrhage in dogs. The dog is often used in cardiovascular
studies because of the similarity of its cardiovascular system with
that of man. The control group was allowed to recover without any
treatment whereas the experimental group received daily dose of
chlorophyll. The group that consumed chlorophyll daily recovered
much faster and showed much higher blood hemoglobin content.
Scientific research has revealed the anti-cancer properties of
chlorophyll. For example, recent studies have reported that
chlorophyllin, a water-soluble form of chlorophyll, protects against
certain forms of liver cancer at a concentration similar to what is
found in green leafy vegetables.9-12 More specifically, chlorophyll
was shown to prevent toxicity to aflatoxin, a toxin produced by fungi
common to corn, peanuts and other crops. Aflatoxin is one of the
most potent liver carcinogens known. Chlorophyll may also protect
against other environmental toxins. This finding may have important
implications in intervention and dietary management of cancer risks
in humans.
Finally, popular medicine has also produced evidence of the heal-
ing properties of chlorophyll. Topical application as well as oral in-
take of chlorophyll was shown to prevent and help eliminate infec-
tions.13,14 Topical application of chlorophyll was noted to promote
healing of the skin as well as stomach ulcers.15

Beta-Carotene and Other Carotenoids

A FA is an exceptional source of carotenoids (more
than 240 retinol equivalents per gram). Beta-carotene, as
well as other carotenoids, has been shown to be a powerful antioxi-
dant, helpful in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.16,17 For
example, oxidative damage of low-density lipoproteins (LDLs) is
believed to be of central importance in the development of athero-
sclerosis. Epidemiological studies suggest that high dietary intake of
naturally occurring beta-carotene decreases the risk for atheroscle-
rotic vascular disease by protecting LDLs from oxidation.18
Blood levels of carotenoids were measured in 1,899 men and

• 31


Beta-carotene is proven to their cardiovascular health was fol-
stimulate the immune system lowed for 13 years. During this time,
the men with the highest blood lev-
and prevent skin, oral, and
els of carotenoids had 36 percent
breast cancer. It has also been
fewer heart attacks and deaths than
shown to be a powerful
those with the lowest levels of caro-
antioxidant, helpful in the
tenoids.19
prevention of cardiovascular Beta-carotene has also been
diseases. proven to stimulate the immune sys-
tem20-22 and prevent skin,23 oral,24-26 and breast cancer.27,28 AFA
also contains lutein and lycopene, two carotenoids that are known to
protect against certain forms of cancer.29,30

Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids

D ietary essential fatty acids, especially Omega-3
essential fatty acids, have been shown to be beneficial to the
immune, cardiovascular, and nervous systems. Nearly 50 percent of
the lipid content of dried AFA is composed of Omega-3 essential
fatty acids (mostly alpha-linolenic acid).
The average North American diet is known to be lacking in
Omega-3 fatty acids. Such deficiency is increasingly linked to car-
diovascular diseases,31-36 immunosuppression,37 arthritis,38 mental
problems,39-42 and skin problems.43
In addition, Omega-3 fatty acids were shown to prevent platelet
aggregation44-46 and to lower cholesterol.33,47 Consumption of essen-
tial fatty acids, mostly Omega-3, was also shown to inhibit many
forms of cancer, namely breast, prostate, pancreatic and colon.48,49
There is also evidence that Omega-3 fatty acids may help in neuro-
pathic conditions associated with diabetes.50,51
Significant interest has been raised by the relationship between
essential fatty acids and nervous system functions. Epidemiological
studies in various countries and in the United States suggest that

32 •


decreased Omega-3 fatty acid consumption correlates with increas-
ing rates of depression.39 Consumption of foods containing Omega-
3 fatty acids may constitute an alternative treatment for depression.
Furthermore, decreased concentrations of certain essential fatty ac-
ids in the plasma have been found in children diagnosed with Atten-
tion-Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD).40
Though the cause of ADHD is multifacto- Consumption of AFA
rial, eating foods containing essential fatty ac- has been
ids may be helpful. Based on various unpub- demonstrated to be
lished studies, consumption of AFA was beneficial in the
demonstrated to be beneficial in the treatment treatment of ADHD.
of ADHD.
Omega-3 fatty acids are important for health, mainly because
they are the precursors to a whole family of compounds (prostag-
landins) responsible for modulating the functioning of the immune
system and preventing or eliminating inflammation. This topic will
be addressed in further detail in the section on phycocyanin (p. 38).
The next section will also describe data that demonstrates the ex-
ceptional bioavailability of AFA’s Omega-3 fatty acids.

Chemoprotection and Polysaccharides

A substance is “chemoprotective” when it protects
against the toxic effects of chemicals or compounds present
in our food or environment. Heavy metals and pesticides are ex-
amples of such compounds extremely deleterious to health. Vari-
ous species of microalgae have been demonstrated to absorb heavy
metals, and their consumption may promote the elimination of heavy
metals.52-54
Scientific studies have shown that cyanophyta offer significant
protection against heavy metal toxicity to the kidneys.55 A sugar
present on the cell membrane of microalgae has also been con-
firmed to bind and eliminate pesticides in the intestine.56 Phycocya-
nin, the blue pigment present in AFA, has also been shown to have
chemopro-tective properties.57

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Summary of Scientific Research on AFA

S
ince the mid-90s, studies performed in collabora-
tion with various universities and research centers
have provided a significant amount of data supporting and
explaining the benefits experienced by millions of AFA consumers.
The scientific research done on AFA was organized into a compre-
hensive program that studied many aspects of its effects on human
health.
A thorough review of AFA’s empirically reported benefits was
performed by a team of scientists affiliated with the University of
Illinois. The team was composed of one board-certified forensic
examiner and microbiologist, one surgeon and three physicians.58
The criteria for inclusion in this study were:
• having a disease diagnosed by a medical doctor using
traditional means of diagnosis
• documentation in the medical file of the failure of traditional
treatments
• mention in the medical file of when the patient began
consuming AFA
• documentation of improvement of condition with AFA

More than 200 cases that met the stringent criteria were in-
cluded in this retrospective study. The study concluded that AFA
seems effective in the treatment of various viral infections, chronic
fatigue, Attention Deficit Disorder, depression, inflammatory
diseases and fibromyalgia. The study strongly suggested that AFA
acts on the immune and nervous systems and prevents the process
of inflammation.
This review constituted the starting point of a series of studies
aimed at researching the effects of AFA on human health. Since
then, various studies have shown that AFA stimulates the mobiliza-
tion and migration of immune cells, stimulates the activity of mac-
rophages, prevents inflammation and pain by inhibiting

34 •


cyclooxygenase (COX-2) activity, stimulates brain function and el-
evates mood, enhances the body’s own mechanism of regeneration,
and is an exceptional source of Omega-3 fatty acids.

The Stimulating Effects of AFA
on Naturalkiller (NK) cells, a type of lymphocyte, are a part of the
atural
Killer Cells

N immune system. NK cells are mainly responsible for the de-
tection and destruction of cancerous and virally infected cells in the
body. They destroy cells that are altered either due to viral infection
or malignant transformation. They work by inducing the affected
cell to undergo programmed cell death.
Two aspects must be considered when talking about NK cells:
their killing activity and their ability to migrate. Although NK cells
are present in the blood, where they are normally measured, it is in
the tissues that they perform immune surveillance and eliminate vi-
rally infected or cancerous cells. Therefore they must be able to
migrate and once they reached the affected tissue, they must have a
good killing activity.

Stimulating Migration
Many substances are known to improve
the activity of NK cells, such as green tea
Until recent findings
and ginkgo biloba, but until recently no natu-
ral substance was known to stimulate natu-
on AFA, no natural
ral killer cells to migrate into tissues to search substance has been
and destroy “sick” cells. known to stimulate
In a double-blind crossover study, the natural killer cells to
immediate effect of AFA on natural killer migrate into the tissues
(NK) cells was evaluated on 21 normal, to search and destroy
healthy volunteers. Within two hours, the in- “sick” cells.
gestion of AFA resulted in a significant de-
crease (40%) of NK cells in the blood (Figure 1).
This data was interpreted as the migration of NK cells from the

• 35


Figure 1

Graph showing the variations in circulating NK cells in the blood. The dotted
line (100%) indicates the starting level of NK cells in the blood. Moving below
this line indicates a movement of NK cells out of the blood into tissues.
Consumption of AFA in humans triggered within two hours the migration of
nearly 40% of the circulating NK cells (red) from the blood to the tissues. On
the day participants consumed the placebo, no significant changes were
observed. This daily effect was stronger in long-term consumers.

blood to the tissue, promoting immune patrolling in the tissues.59 Close
analysis of the data revealed that this effect was barely detectable
the first time individuals consumed AFA. However, after a few weeks
of daily consumption of AFA, migration increased and reached its
maximum effect. The study shows that the benefits on the immune
system are not cumulative, but come with regular daily consump-
tion.

Stimulating Activity
NK cell activity is defined as the ability to kill virally-infected
cells and cancer cells. Typically, NK cells identify the site of an
infection or the site where cancerous cells are growing by moving
toward chemicals produced by such cells. As they get closer, chemi-
cals released by infected or affected cells activate NK cells. NK
cells then move in close proximity of the affected cell and trigger a
phenomenon called apoptosis, or programmed cell death.
Many substances are known to stimulate NK cell activity, though

36 •


the most potent are polysaccharides extracted from rice and mush-
rooms. In a recent study, the polysaccharide fraction of AFA was
tested against polysaccharides extracted from rice, known as
arabinoxylan, one of the most potent NK cell activator available.
The polysaccharide from AFA was found to be many times more
potent than arabinoxylan.
This research suggests that eating AFA daily may stimulate the
immune system to help prevent cancer as well as illnesses associ-
ated with viral infections. The anticancer properties of AFA have
already been established by its ability to prevent cancer in the Ames
test. 60

AFA, an Exceptional Source of Polyunsaturated
Fatty Acids, Especially Omega-3

A recent study revealed that AFA was many times more
effective than soybean oil in providing dietary polyunsatu-
rated fatty acids (PUFA).61 In brief, rats fed a PUFA-deficient diet
(coconut oil) supplemented with AFA (which contains mostly al-
pha-linolenic acid) showed blood levels of alpha-linolenic acid (LNA;
18:3w3) eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA; 20:5w3) and docosahexaenoic
acid (DHA; 22:6w3)
Figure 2
greater than levels found
in rats fed the control diet
containing soybean oil, in
spite of the fact that the
amount of PUFA in the
experimental diet was one
fourth the amount present
in the control diet (Figure
2).
Adding AFA (an exceptional source of Omega-3
PUFA) to the diet was shown to significantly
increase the level of blood PUFA.

• 37


Increased plasma levels of EPA and DHA have been associ-
ated with nervous membrane stability and cardiovascular health, while
decreased levels have been associated with Attention Deficit Dis-
order, depression and cardiovascular diseases.
Close analysis of the blood lipid profile in this study further re-
vealed that the concentration of the inflam-
Eating AFA was shown matory lipid arachidonic acid (AA) was
to significantly decrease decreased by AFA in a dose-dependent
blood cholesterol and manner, which may in part explain the anti-
triglyceride levels. inflammatory properties of AFA.
In the same study, eating AFA was
shown to significantly decrease blood cholesterol and triglyceride
levels. Other types of algae were also shown to affect cholesterol
levels.62 This effect could be explained by AFA’s content of lino-
lenic acid, which has been shown to decrease cholesterol,47,63,64
though the effect seemed to be caused by AFA’s high chlorophyll
content.61

Anti-inflammatory Properties of Phycocyanin

P hycocyanin is the blue pigment present in all cy-
anophyta. In the living algal cell, phycocyanin serves as a
protein storage unit and as an antioxidant, protecting the cell from
certain wavelengths.
Phycocyanin has been shown to have strong antioxidant and
anti-inflammatory properties. In various animal models of inflam-
mation, phycocyanin was shown to reduce or prevent inflamma-
tion.65,66 Phycocyanin has been shown to prevent certain forms of
colitis.67 The mechanism of action was identified as the ability to
block the production of the inflammatory eicosanoid leukotriene B4.66
Recently, phycocyanin has also been shown to be one of the stron-
gest natural COX-2 (cyclo-oxigenase) inhibitors.68

38 •


Figure 3

Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Linolenic acid
(C18:2w3)

•
Eicosapentaenoic acid
(C20:5w3)
•
Prostaglandins
PGI3, PGI2, PGD3
• Leukotrienes
LTB5
• Inhibit platelet aggregation • Attract immune cells
• Vasodilation (Blood Pressure)
• Anti-inflammatory

Omega-6 Fatty Acids
Linoleic acid
(C18:2w6)
•

g-Linolenic acid
(C18:3w6)
•

Arachidonic acid
(C20:4w6)
COX-2
•
•

•

Prostaglandins Leukotrienes Thromboxanes
PGE1, PGE2, PGD2 LTB4, LTE2, LTE4 TXA2, TXA3, TXB2
• Suppress immune • Irritable bowel • Skin inflammation
system diseases • Platelet aggregation
• Promote cancer • Asthma • Vasocenstriction (B.P.)
• Inflammatory • Lung inflammation

Although this is an oversimplification, Omega-3 fatty acids are generally metabolized
into health-promoting anti-inflammatory compounds, whereas Omega-6 fatty acids are
precursors to inflammatory compounds in the body. COX-2 is involved in the
transformation of arachidonic acid into inflammatory prostaglandins.

• 39


The Eicosanoid Pathway
Eicosanoids are a group of oxygenated fatty acids containing 20
(eicosa) carbon atoms, produced by the body to support many body
functions.
Eicosanoids are ubiquitous substances considered local hormones
because their activity is limited to the site where they are released.
Short-lived and synthesized on demand, they are not stored in tis-
sues. Their role in the body’s homeostasis (equilibrium) is such that
their two main precursors, Omega-6 (w6) linoleic acid (LA; 18:2w6)
and Omega-3 (w3) linolenic acid (LNA; 18:2w3), are called
essential fatty acids and were even considered vitamins a few de-
cades ago (vitamin F).
The action of specific enzymes leads to the transformation of
both LA and LNA into whole families of eicosanoids having various
roles in the support of immune and cellular functions (see Figure 3
on page 39). Generally speaking,
The American diet, now high in LA metabolites (w6) are responsible
the Omega-6/Omega-3 ratio, for the support of immune responses
has stirred a comprehensive by inducing inflammation, fever and
effort to promote eating more platelet aggregation. On the other
hand, LNA metabolites (w3) are
foods rich in Omega-3, but the
responsible for the support of
results have been marginal.
immune responses by attracting im-
Inflammatory diseases are still
mune cells on the site of injury and
rising in western countries. then suppressing inflammation when
the immune response is over.
Over the past decades, the American diet has evolved by in-
creasing the w6:w3 ratio, thereby promoting inflammation in the body.
A higher w6:w3 ratio has been associated with cardiovascular dis-
eases,30-35 immunosuppression,36 arthritis,37 mental problems,38-41
and skin problems.42 To remedy this situation a comprehensive effort
was made by various health organizations to promote increased con-
sumption of w3 fatty acids (flaxseed oil, fish, etc.). Though this effort
has had some positive impact, it is marginal. Inflammatory diseases are
still rising in western countries.

40 •


A parallel effort has been the search for compounds that would
modulate or inhibit the transformation of w6 fatty acids into inflam-
matory compounds. This research effort has led to the discovery of
two main classes of compounds: COX-2 inhibitors and lipoxygenase
inhibitors. Both COX-2 and lipoxygenase
are considered inflammatory enzymes, and Phycocyanin has been
their inhibition reduces inflammation. Re- shown to have strong
cent discoveries reveal that phycocyanin, antioxidant and anti-
the unique blue pigment in AFA, inhibits both inflammatory properties.
enzymes.
Phycocyanin has been shown in various animal models to signifi-
cantly reduce inflammation.65-67 This anti-inflammatory property is due
to phycocyanin’s ability to inhibit COX-2. It also inhibits the formation
of leukotriene B4, a compound involved in the pathophysiology of asthma.
Recent drugs developed for the treatment of asthma are inhibitors of
leukotriene B4 action.

AFA is a Unique Source of PEA
(Phenylethylamine)

I ndividuals have reported discontinuing their antidepres-
sant medications after a few months of AFA consumption. More
generally, people have been reporting an elevation of mood, an en-
hancement of mental energy and mental clarity, and an increase in
quality of life.
The type of effect reported by consumers was consistent with
the presence in AFA of a neuroactive amino acid or a biogenic amine.
An effort was then made to search for such compounds, and recent
scientific analysis has revealed the presence of the biogenic amine
phenylethylamine (PEA) in AFA. PEA is well known to alleviate de-
pression and elevate mood, and it plays an important role in the patho-
genesis of learning disabilities and Attention Deficit Disorder.
PEA, a compound naturally produced by the brain, is respon-
sible for the feeling of experiences associated with pleasure and
mental awareness. For example, when one is absorbed by an activity

• 41


like painting, sculpting, or reading a fascinating book, when the world
around seems suspended and nothing can disturb us, when worries
vanish and hunger goes away, in such moments PEA is being pro-
duced by the brain. Likewise, PEA is released in the brain when one
experiences the feelings of love and joy. For this reason, PEA has
been coined “the molecule of love.” When taken orally, PEA is known
to readily cross the blood-brain barrier and become immediately avail-
able in the brain.
In the brain, PEA acts by increasing the concentration of dopam-
ine in the synaptic cleft, thereby enhancing dopamine transmission.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter associated with the sensation of
pleasure. It is not clear whether PEA acts by reducing uptake or
enhancing release of dopamine, but the outcome has been estab-
lished as an enhandemcent of dopamine transmission.
PEA has also been shown to enhance norepinephrine transmis-
sion in the brain. Norepinephrine is also involved in the experience
of joy. Enhancing norepinephrine transmission in the brain increases
the experience of joy and reduces appe-
Daily consumption of tite. For example, if an animal is implanted
one gram a day of AFA with an electrode in an area of the brain
extract could constitute an concentrated in norepinephrine, and this
effective therapeutic electrode is activated by a pedal that the
approach in the treat- animal has access to, the animal will dis-
ment of depression. regard food and water and will press the
pedal relentlessly until exhaustion to elicit an
electrical impulse in this area of the brain.
This ability to modulate dopamine and norepinephrine transmis-
sion provides PEA with interesting properties in alleviating
depression and Attention Deficit Disorder, while increasing concen-
tration and elevating mood.

Depression
It was discovered nearly two decades ago that the amount of PEA
in the brains of depressed patients was less than that of normal
individuals71,72 and that PEA given orally to individuals suffering from
depression was able to reverse the depressive condition.73 A de-

42 •


crease in the brain levels and/or turnover of endogenous PEA may
therefore play a major role in the etiology of certain forms of de-
pression. In fact, it has been observed that many antidepressant
drug treatments act by increasing the level of PEA in the brain.74-77
In one study, when taken orally (10 mg/day),
Oral intake of PEA
PEA was shown to decrease the symptoms of
may increase PEA
depression in 60 percent of the patients tested.
levels in the brain
The patients did not develop tolerance, and PEA
and may alleviate
remained effective over time. None of the side
subclinical symp-
effects associated with conventional antidepres-
toms of depression.
sant therapy was experienced (i.e., nausea, fa-
tigue, decreased libido, cardiovascular problems). On average, patients
did not gain weight, in fact many actually lost the weight they had gained
on the previous conventional antidepressant therapy.73
AFA contains on average 2 mg/g of PEA, and an AFA extract
has been developed that contains up to 10 mg/g of PEA.78 Daily
consumption of one gram a day of AFA extract could constitute an
effective therapeutic approach in the treatment of depression and
other affective disorders.

Attention Deficit Disorder
PEA is synthesized in the brain from the two amino acids phenylala-
nine and tyrosine. It is degraded by the enzyme monoamine oxidase
(MAO) into phenylacetic acid (PAA), which is eliminated in the
urine. Both PEA and PAA were found to be decreased in the urine
of patients suffering from depression and ADD. The PEA precur-
sors phenylalanine and tyrosine were also both decreased in the
plasma of children suffering from ADD.79
The Phenylethylamine hypothesis of affective behavior 77 states
that PEA is an endogenous neuromodulator responsible for trigger-
ing or sustaining wakefulness, alertness, and excitement. Structur-
ally, PEA is closely related to amphetamine and to a lesser extent to
catecholamines. PEA induces behavioral and electrophysiological
effects similar to those of some amphetamine derivatives, which are
already sold under the name Adderall® for the treatment of ADD.80
However, unlike amphetamines, PEA is endogenous to the brain and

• 43


does not develop tolerance or dependency, nor does
PEA may prove it produce any side effects. Likewise, methylpheni-
to be a safe and date (Ritalin®), the most prescribed drug for the
effective alterna- management of ADD, is believed to act by stimu-
tive for the treat- lating the release of endogenous norepinephrine and
ment of ADD. PEA.
PEA may therefore prove to be a safe and ef-
fective alternative for the treatment of ADD. In fact, preliminary
data indicates that AFA has been effective at significantly improv-
ing concentration and mental performance shortly after consump-
tion.78

Mood elevation
The Phenylethylamine hypothesis of affective behavior also states
that PEA is a neuromodulator that modulates mood, attention, plea-
sure-seeking behavior, and libido. A deficit in the brain’s level of
PEA and/or a decrease in the turnover of endogenous PEA may
therefore be a causal factor in certain forms of subclinical depres-
sive conditions. Oral intake of PEA may increase PEA levels in the
brain and may alleviate subclinical symptoms of depression. Indi-
viduals would then experience an increased quality of life and el-
evation of mood.81
Phenylalanine (PA), the precursor of PEA, has been shown to
increase brain PEA content in animals. In one study, phenylalanine
was shown to be effective at alleviating depression in patients with
low PAA urinary excretion. Furthermore, phenylalanine led to an
increase in urinary PAA excretion that was concomitant with its
antidepressant therapeutic effects. This suggests that the antide-
pressant and mood-elevating effects of phenylalanine may be re-
lated to its ability to increase brain levels of PEA.
All this data clearly explains the physiological mechanism be-
hind the well-known effects of AFA on attention, mental energy,
and general quality of life.

Weight Loss
44 •


Finally, PEA also carries another interesting benefit. As mentioned
before, PEA is produced by the brain when one is fully absorbed
into an activity like painting, sculpting or reading a fascinating book.
At such a time, the world seems to disappear around us, and we are
no longer hungry. This phenomenon is not an anorectic effect in
which hunger completely disappears; appetite is reduced as atten-
tion is taken away from the feeling of hunger. In this manner, PEA
acts as an appetite suppressant. Therefore, through its ability to re-
duce appetite, AFA is an effective supplement to be taken as part of
a comprehensive weight-loss program.

AFA Stimulates Stem Cell Mobilization

S purred by political considerations, much attention has
recently been brought to the issue of using embryonic stem cells
for research purposes and for the development of treatments for
various diseases.
Embryonic stem cells (ESC) are cells harvested from embryos
that have nearly unlimited capacity to regenerate and become any
kind of cell in the body. In the embryo, they are the initial precursors
of all the cells destined to become the brain, heart, muscles, skin,
bones, etc. When transplanted into an adult, embryonic stem cells
have the ability to heal and repair any organ in which they are trans-
planted, providing an extremely useful tool for the treatment of vari-
ous degenerative diseases. Treatment with embryonic stem cells
has either been shown or is suspected to improve various degenera-
tive diseases such as Parkinson’s diseases, diabetes, heart disease,
as well as degeneration of the nervous system.
Knowledge of the potential of embryonic stem cells in treating
various health conditions emerged in the 1960s and gained signifi-
cant momentum in the 1980s. However, research involving ESC
received significant opposition over the years because of the obvi-
ous ethical nature of harvesting cells from live human embryos and

• 45


because of the door it opens
to research involving genetic
manipulation of humans.
However, as an alternative to
this ethical dilemma, much
evidence has accumulated
over the past few years in-
dicating that adult bone mar-
row stem cells (ASC) might
have pluripotent properties
similar to ESC, leading to the
Figure 4 hypothesis that stimulation of
Stem cells carrying a gene encoded for a in situ release of bone mar-
fluorescent protein were trans-planted into
row stem cells could consti-
irradiated mice. Cardiac arrest was triggered
by ligating the coronary artery. Three tute an effective treatment
weeks after the cardiac arrest, up to 68 for various degenerative dis-
percent of the necrotic area was filled with
func-tional fluorescent cardiomyocytes. eases. 82
For example, Goodell et
al. recently described how ASC can migrate from the bone mar-
83

row to the heart and contribute to cardiac muscle repair and the
formation of new blood vessels after ischemic injury (cardiac inf-
arct).
In brief, highly purified bone marrow stem cells were geneti-
cally modified to produce a fluorescent protein. The mice’s innate
stem cells were killed through irradiation. Then the genetically modi-
fied stem cells were transplanted into their bone marrow, leaving the
fluorescent bone marrow stem cells as the sole source of available
stem cells. Cardiac arrest was subsequently triggered in the mice by
coronary artery occlusion.
A few weeks later, the engrafted fluorescent stem cells had
differentiated into cardiac muscle and endothelial cells, which con-
tributed to the formation of functional cardiac tissue, as well as new
blood vessels.
Orlic et al.84 carried an experiment that clearly demonstrated
that the simple fact of enhancing the release and circulation of adult
bone marrow stem cells could lead to significant healing. The re-

46 •


searchers induced cardiac infarct in two groups of rats. The control
group was left to recover on its own, while the experimental group
received injections of ASC-releasing
cytokines during 5 days after the infarct. It is hypothesized that
After one month the survival rate in the stimulation of in situ
control group was 17% and upon functional release of bone-marrow
and histogical analysis the animals showed stem cells could con-
severe signs of cardiomyopathy. In the ex- stitute an effective
perimental group in which circulation of treatment for various
ASC was stimulated during 5 days post- degenerative diseases.
infarct, the survival rate was 73%. Upon
functional and histological analysis it was determined that newly
formed cardiac tissue had developed, along with full functional blood
vascularization, and that the cardiac functions were virtually nor-
mal. The simple fact of stimulating ASC release during 5 days post-
infarct was sufficient to bring near complete recovery.
Similar migration of bone marrow stem cells and subsequent
regeneration of tissue was also suspected to take place in the brain.
In a double-blind study including 40 patients suffering from
Parkinson’s disease, injection of stem cells derived from seven- to
eight-week-old embryos slowed the progression of the diseases in
all of the 20 patients.85 Likewise, there is evidence indicating that
stem cells could reverse symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease.86
Studies were therefore conducted to investigate whether stem
cells injected intravascularly or endogenously released from the bone
marrow could cross the blood-brain barrier, migrate, then differenti-
ate into brain cells. Bone marrow stem cells, along with monocytes
and macrophages, were shown to have the ability to cross the blood-
brain barrier and reach the brain.87-90
Intravascular delivery of genetically marked adult mouse bone
marrow stem cells into lethally irradiated normal adult mice led to
the development in the central nervous system of donor-derived cells
having neuronal properties (neuronal phenotypes).91 After eight to
twelve weeks, it was estimated that about 0.2 to 0.3 percent of the
total number of neurons in the brain were derived from the bone
marrow. The authors wrote, “Our results clearly show that adult

• 47


cells from the marrow can gain access to the adult brain and as-
sume characteristics of central nervous system neurons.”91
Similarly, Mezey et al.89 showed that in a strain of mice inca-
pable of developing cells of the myeloid and lymphoid lineages, trans-
planted adult bone marrow stem cells migrated into the brain and
differentiated into cells that expressed neuron-specific antigens. Be-
tween 2.3 and 4.6 percent of all neurons were donor-derived. Some
neurons were observed with axonic projections and apparent den-

Figure 5

48 •


dritic trees. The authors suggested that bone marrow stem cells
might naturally migrate into certain regions of the brain and give rise
to a variety of neural cell types, thus implying a greater potential for
regeneration of the central nervous system than had been tradition-
ally expected.89
Based on information produced by various scientific teams,
Jensen et al.83 recently proposed the Stem Cell Theory of Healing,
Regeneration and Repair (Figure 5 on previous page). This break-
through theory suggests that bone marrow stem cells would leave
the bone marrow and travel throughout the body, providing for heal-
ing and regeneration of damaged organs during the entire lifetime of
an individual. In other words, adult bone marrow stem cells may be
the natural mechanism that the human body utilizes to heal,
regenerate and repair.
According to this theory, there is no need to harvest
embryonic stem cells, manipulate them, then reinject them into indi-
viduals. Regeneration can take place simply by stimulating the re-
lease of stem cells from the bone marrow and stimulating their mi-
gration into tissues. The task is therefore simply to find natural
compounds able to stimulate stem cell release and migration. Such
compounds could be used for the daily enhancement of the body’s
natural mechanism of healing and regeneration.
The only such natural compound known to date is AFA, which
has been recently shown to stimulate stem cell release and migra-
tion. A dose of 5 grams of AFA was shown to increase the number
of circulating stem cells. Based on this information, a patent has
been filed and recently obtained regarding the use of AFA for the
treatment of Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease, diabetes, mul-
tiple sclerosis, cardiac arrest recovery, and regeneration.

• 49


50 •


CONCLUSION

A
FA is an interesting natural dietary supplement
to study. First, it is one of few dietary products
that grow naturally in the wild without man’s intervention.
It shares this characteristic with wild mushrooms harvested in small
quantities by mushroom hunters, and herbs harvested in the virgin
rainforests of South America, China, and Africa. Virtually every-
thing else found in the marketplace is the product of human activity.
The significance of this is paramount. There is an undeniable
law of nature under which everything evolves according to the pres-
sure from the environment. In other words, the strongest of the
species are selected for survival while the weaker do not survive.
With time, this means that what is produced by nature carries the
signature of strength, durability, resistance, and longevity.
AFA is the oldest living organism on planet Earth, and it has
survived the pressure applied by billions of years. Today, wild-grow-
ing AFA is the only food able to bring to the body this multimillennial
strength and vitality. The science is compelling, but beyond the sci-
entific information, the characteristic of growing naturally in the wild,
carrying the benefits of eons of vitalization, may very well be one of
the deepest energetic mechanisms of action yet to be described.
Second, there is now a large body of scientific information docu-
menting the efficacy of AFA in improving various health conditions.
The identification of the active components of AFA and the descrip-
tion of the mechanisms of action is compelling, and though AFA is
an important component of today’s dietary supplement industry, the
only thing that really matters is one’s own experience. What can
AFA do for you? In this regard, AFA is fascinating because it was
not discovered in a laboratory, followed by scientific description of
efficacy in test tubes; it started by the very experience of people
consuming it and experiencing the exceptional benefits. And it is the
close observation and analysis of these reported benefits that led to
the discoveries of its numerous bioactive components. Interestingly,
as scientists we knew that when an experiment did not uncover

• 51


what we were looking for, it was not because AFA was not effec-
tive but rather because we were not looking in the right place. The
benefits were there; that we knew. For scientists involved in scien-
tific investigation, this is a rather unique and interesting position to be
in.
Third, studying AFA has led us to the discovery of a fabulous
natural phenomenon: the use of endogenous stem cells for healing,
regeneration, and repair. The release of stem cells from the bone
marrow and the migration of these stem cells to tissues is the mecha-
nism that the human body has developed over thousands of years to
heal and regenerate. The mythical fountain of youth may have been
discovered. All we have to do is to enhance this phenomenon, and
AFA is the first known natural product to do so.
There are many dietary supplements and vitamins available to-
day, and their number and diversity often confuse consumers. “What
should I take?” is a question on the mind of many. While numerous
dietary supplements and vitamins are effective and carry real ben-
efits, there is one that will unavoidably bring benefits to most people:
AFA.

52 •


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About Christian Drapeau

A wild-food expert, author,
research scientist and
neurophysiologist, Christian Drapeau,
M.Sc. has lectured on nutrition to over
30,000 people internationally since
1994. He presents profound health in-
formation and insights with clarity and
humor. His studies have included
ADD/ADHD, accelerated learning,
and the impact of wild superfoods on
mental function, just to name a few.

Credentials
Christian Drapeau is a neurophysiologist with over thirteen years
of research experience in the fields of natural foods and nutrition.
Mr. Drapeau received a B.Sc. in Neurophysiology from McGill
University, Montreal, in 1987 and an M.Sc. from the Department of
Neurology and Neurosurgery from the Montreal Neurological Insti-
tute, McGill University, Montreal, in 1991.
After his academic formation, Mr. Drapeau studied herbal medi-
cine and naturopathy which led him to the position of Chief Scientist
at Cell Tech (1995-1999), where he directed research on Aphani-
zomenon flos-aquae (AFA).
Mr. Drapeau is currently Chief Scientist for Desert Lake Tech-
nologies, LLC. He has been a member of International Who’s Who
of Professionals since 1996.
Since 1995, Mr. Drapeau has been pursuing scientific research
in collaboration with various universities and research centers on
the health benefits of the cyanophyta Aphanizomenon flos-aquae.
He has coauthored many articles published in scientific literature on
this topic.

62 •


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The health benefits of Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) have been
reported for more than two decades, yet it is only recently that science has
revealed the mechanisms by which AFA acts on the body, and the astonishing
health benefits of AFA. AFA contains a wide variety of phytonutrients that
promote health, such as chlorophyll, carotenoids and polyunsaturated fatty
acids. AFA contains unique molecules that modulate various aspects of human
health, such as:
• Phenylethylamine (PEA) known as the “molecule of love.” Beside
enhancing concentration and attention, PEA is a natural mood
elevator and anti-depressant.
• Phycocyanin, the blue pigment in AFA, which is a natural selective
COX-2 inhibitor with strong anti-inflammatory properties.
• A polysaccharide that stimulates the migration of immune cells in the
body; the only natural compound known to stimulate immune cell
migration.
But the most extraordinary discovery is the ability of AFA to stimulate
stem cell release and migration, making of AFA the first natural compound
known to stimulate the natural innate phenomenon of healing, regeneration
and repair in the human body.

“I was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis and was bedridden for one year and
housebound for 5 years. I began consuming AFA in the spring of 1988, and
consider the algae to be one of the “shining stars of my overall program.” At
this point in time, I function on a very high level and am virtually symptom-
free, as long as I adhere to certain healthful principles.”
— Bonnie S., New York

“Life saving! I have lived for long time with low energy, no stamina, and with
painful joints. After taking AFA the pain went away and I experienced a new
level of life energy. It had such an effect on me that I included AFA in my
breeding and training program. My horses are never sick, they perform better,
and when I push them hard they recover much faster.”
— Eve-Marie L., Florida

“I was introduced to AFA in 1995 and I haven’t missed a day ever since. Both
of my children and many of our friends have done the same! What is it about
this unique wild superfood that would elicit such extraordinary consistency?
The answers to that question lie within the pages of this beautifully and
thoroughly written booklet. Read it carefully and you will begin to understand
and appreciate the truly extraordinary powers of AFA, known popularly as
Klamath Lake Blue-Green Algae.”
— Clive A., North Carolina

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The information contained in this booklet is for educational purposes only
and has not been reviewed by the FDA. This information is not intended to
diagnose, cure, alleviate, mitigate or prevent any disease. If you have any
health problem, you should seek the advice of a certified health care
provider.

© Unity International, 2003

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

First Edition: October 2003
Second Edition: January 2005

This book is protected by copyright. No part of it may be reproduced,
stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means,
electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the
written permission from the copyright owner.

Printed on recycled paper
Made in the United States of America

For additional copies of “The Primordial Food” contact:
Desert Lake Technologies, LLC.
P.O. Box 489
Klamath Falls, OR 97601
(541) 885-6947

•3


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Primordial Food

Aphanizomenon flos-aquae
Latin for:
“Invisible Living
Flower of the Water”

A Wild Blue-Green Alga
with Unique Health Properties

by

Christian Drapeau, MSc.

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