What is Spirulina?
This is a blue-green algae, known to be one of the oldest life forms on earth. It’s praised as being one very powerful superfood. It contains a potent source of nutrients. It has a powerful plant-based protein called phycocyanin. Phycocyanin.has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This dark green powder is now cultivated throughout the world. Some people refer to this as the “miracle from the sea”.
-
Protein: Considered a great source of protein and can be considered a good replacement for eggs.
-
Calcium: Very high in calcium with over 20 times the calcium in milk.
-
Iron: Gentle on the digestive system and highly absorbable. Vegans and vegetarians tend to love it because it is one of the best plant sources for iron.
Here are some of the benefits of taking spirulina:
High in antioxidant properties:
To begin with, antioxidants help combat oxidative stress, which can possibly damage our cells. With this in mind, oxidative stress can harm the fatty structures in the body.
Helps support heart health:
Spirulina haș been known to help people maintain healthy cholesterol levels. For the most part, researchers suggest spirulina’s impact on the body’s production of nitric oxide, helps dilate and relax the blood vessels. To sum up, it will allow for more better blood flow.
Aids in reducing allergy symptoms:
Regarding allergy relief, spirulina can slow the production of cytokines. Furthermore, this plays an important role in the body’s immune response to allergy symptoms. In addition, studies suggest it may help people suffering from nasal congestion or sneezing.
Helps balance blood sugar:
There are some studies that show people with type 2 diabetes may benefit by taking this supplement. In fact, it has shown to positively affect blood sugar levels. As the science is there, more research is needed. In this situation, many of us either know someone with type 2 diabetes or have it themselves, so this might be helpful.
Flushes toxins from the body:
Helps the body flush out toxins. Remarkably effective as a detoxifier, some people use it as a natural water filter. In short, it can aid in keeping serious harmful toxins out of it. It works great because it contains peptides and proteins that are able to bind the toxins and flushing them out of the body.
May help in weight management:
Also, it contains l-phenylalanine which some suggest is linked to suppressing your appetite. Therefore, if it suppresses your appetite you may eat less and possibly maintain or lose weight.
Helps with blood pressure:
Due to the fact that is helps with your overall blood flow, your blood pressure should benefit from this. Generally, the easier our blood flows means our heart doesn’t have to work as hard. In summary, this typically suggests spirulina does help the body.
High in beta carotene:
In brief, it has an abundant high amount of beta-carotene and carotenoids which helps mitigate the free radicals. 1 tablespoon of spirulina would be equal to about consuming 18 carrots to get the same benefit.
Good source of calcium:
Getting a sufficient amount of calcium will support your muscles, bones and nerves. 3 glasses of regular milk equals about 1 tablespoon of spirulina.
Possibly improve your energy levels:
Particularly high in B vitamins. Vitamin B is critical to your cells health, brain function and overall energy. For the most part, it can help with proper nerve function, appetite and digestion. .
May aid in cancer prevention:
Some studies suggest that spirulina can reduce the risk of cancer, it stops the development of cancer progressions and help your overall immune system. As mentioned earlier, it has a rich amount of phycocyanin which is known to have anti-cancer properties. Most important thing to remember is that we should focus on strengthening our immune system. It is one of the keys to preventing cancer. With that in mind, this definitely supports the notion of how spirulina helps the body.
Improves your memory:
Generally, studies suggest eating spirulina might help improve your memory capacity as a whole. In fact, it protects the cognitive systems and stimulates your nervous system and brain. Basically, with this combination it should help lower your stress and balance your mood.
Good thyroid booster:
This may help improve your thyroid because it’s rich in micro-nutrients and iodine. In general, all seaweed is very good for your thyroid but for the money you can’t beat spirulina.
Reduces heavy metals:
The overall condition our environment is not great. We are consuming contaminated/ultra processed foods, water and absorbing polluted air. With this in mind, our body’s detox efforts should be a priority. In summary, the pollution in many areas around us are not improving. Regretfully, there is arsenic all around us and it is very dangerous. All in all, spirulina has been shown to help reduce arsenic levels in humans.
Helps your immune system:
If your immune system is not working well, this should definitely help improve that. Additionally, research suggests taking spirulina can increase the production of antibodies in your system. This is key to protect against disease and fight off infections.
Spirulina is quite popular with runners!
Is Spirulina Safe?
-
Doctors consider this to be safe in general. Depending where it is grown, it may become contaminated and this one of the areas of big concern. Furthermore, If it is contaminated it can cause weakness, vomiting, liver damage, nausea, etc. People with autoimmune conditions should normally avoid spirulina supplements, as it may cause issues for them.
Conclusion:
-
Without a doubt, spirulina is a true powerhouse with many great health benefits. Just take heed, if you are taking medications or have an autoimmune disorder this may cause some issues for you. In order to be certain, check with your primary care physician before going this route. On a side note, if you don’t exercise it might be a very good idea to add that into your daily regiment.