Suggested mechanisms for the lipid-lowering effects of Spirulina blue-green algae include free radical scavenging, inhibition of lipid peroxidation, and increased enzymes activity. The compound C-phycocyanin isolated from blue-green algae inhibits cholesterol absorption and bile acid reabsorption. Clinical research shows that taking Spirulina blue-green algae decreases markers of vascular and other tissue damage. Laboratory research shows that Spirulina blue-green algae, given for 12 weeks to obese rats on a high-fat diet, improves glucose tolerance.