Catharine Arnston is an expert in algae nutrition, a wellness thought leader, an experienced entrepreneur, and a sought-after speaker. Catharine has a PhD, MBA, BA Hons, and is a board-certified health coach.
Catharine's journey into the fascinating world of algae began in 2008 when her younger sister was diagnosed with breast cancer and advised by her oncologist that an alkaline diet would improve her healing. Catharine left her 25- year corporate career to help her sister identify which foods were alkaline and this led her to algae - the most alkaline, chlorophyll-rich, high-protein, nutrient-dense food in the world. When Catharine learned that algae's vast healing properties were documented in tens of thousands of scientific studies but that none of these studies or benefits were known outside of Asia, she knew she needed to do something. And so ENERGYbits® was born.
Catharine has spent the last fifteen years researching algae, writing papers, giving presentations, lecturing at conferences, and speaking on 300+ podcasts to explain the benefits of algae. To do this, she read thousands of scientific papers that detailed, validated, and confirmed algae's nutritional, health, longevity, and global benefits. Remarkably none of these findings are known by consumers. It is Catharine's vision and passion to change this and her PhD in natural health has given her the scientific fluency that allows her to explain algae with such simplicity and clarity, it quickly becomes obvious why algae is something we all urgently need.
Catharine's passion for algae is contagious, inspiring and thought-provoking. Her efforts have led to algae being better understood by educators, consumers, doctors, and wellness practitioners. Even the United Nations and NASA endorse algae as the most nutrient-dense food in the world and the answer to world hunger. Catharine's extensive knowledge and playful personality is both entertaining and educating and her speaking style leaves audiences informed, uplifted, and hopeful.
In this episode of Women Aging Powerfully, Leah Vachani welcomes back Catharine Arnston, a leading expert in algae nutrition, to dive deep into the incredible health benefits of algae. With over a decade of experience in algae research, Catharine shares her journey into this nutrient-dense superfood, which started as a mission to help her sister through cancer. Now, she’s become one of the foremost voices in algae’s transformative impact on health, showing how spirulina and chlorella can support women’s unique health challenges, from hormonal shifts to chronic fatigue.
Catharine discusses how algae nourishes the mitochondria—the powerhouse of our cells—focusing on how these tiny organisms fuel energy, improve mental clarity, and slow down aging. Through clinical studies and real-life success stories, she reveals the essential role of antioxidants like superoxide dismutase in protecting mitochondria from free radical damage. This episode also explores algae’s potent effects on gut health, detoxification, and even blood sugar stability for diabetics.
Join us as we break down complex science into easy, actionable steps to enhance your energy and overall health through algae. You’ll leave inspired to consider this ancient superfood for everything from mitochondrial support to mental well-being, all with the goal of aging powerfully!
The information provided during this podcast is for educational purposes only. The speaker may be a licensed medical professional and may present case studies of actual patients or refer to patients' treatment during the program. Please be reminded that the Scope of Practice for Holistic Nutrition Professionals prevents us from diagnosing, preventing, treating, curing, prescribing, managing, or healing disease. Holistic Nutrition Professionals are not licensed in any state and work with clients, not patients.
Women have unique health needs that algae powerfully supports, especially in times of fatigue and hormonal changes.
Mitochondrial health is central to energy, longevity, and mental resilience.
Algae, particularly spirulina, provides a powerful, natural solution for boosting mitochondrial function and reducing oxidative stress.
Regular intake of spirulina can support mental clarity, energy, and faster recovery.
Chlorella is a top choice for detoxifying the body and promoting gut health.
Algae’s vitamin K2 helps prevent calcification and is vital for long-term health.
The blue pigment, phycocyanin, in spirulina shows potential anti-cancer properties, adding to its impressive profile.
00:00 Introduction to Algae Nutrition and Women's Health
02:28 Understanding Fatigue and Hormonal Changes in Women
05:27 The Role of Mitochondria in Health and Aging
08:27 Mitochondria: The Powerhouse of Cellular Energy
12:18 Free Radicals and Antioxidants: Protecting Mitochondria
19:16 Spirulina: The Superfood for Mitochondrial Health
25:11 Practical Steps for Supporting Mitochondrial Function
32:11 Mitochondria and Metabolic Health: Weight Management Insights
38:01 The Mitochondrial Crisis: Understanding Energy Production
40:01 The Power of Spirulina: A Clinical Breakthrough
43:04 Mitochondria and Mental Health: The Brain Connection
45:56 Real-Life Transformations: Spirulina Success Stories
49:03 Choosing the Right Algae: Spirulina vs. Chlorella
51:56 The Science of Sleep: Chlorella and Dreaming
55:02 The Importance of Vitamin K2: Health Implications
57:55 Algae: The Nutritional Orchestra for Optimal Health
EnergyBits – Use code 'LEAHV' for a 20% discount
Book: Brain Energy: A Revolutionary Breakthrough in Understanding Mental Health–and Improving Treatment for Anxiety, Depression, OCD, PTSD, and More by Christopher M. Palmer MD
ALGAE ARTICLES
Why algae is a FOOD not a supplement
Algae Comparison: Spirulina algae v.s chlorella algae
WELLNESS WITH ALGAE ARTICLES
SOD Key Nutrient to Prevent Chronic Disease and Protect Mitochondria Health
Algae Protects Mitochondria Health With Superoxide Dismutase (SOD)
Algae Tablets for Brain Health
Phycocyanin Kills Cancer Cells
Why Algae Outperforms Collagen
Chlorophll + Red Light Therapy generates ATP
Prevent Aging and disease with algae
Algae has the highest concentration of chlorophyll in the world
Mother's Milk and ENERGYbits Spirulina Have Virtually the Same Nutritional Profile
SUSTAINABILITY WITH ALGAE ARTICLES
Algae is the most eco-friendly and sustainable crop in the world
COMPANY/PRODUCT INFORMATION
Pioneers of Longevity Featuring Catharine Arnston
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