Spirulina, as you may already know, is a blue-green algae that is considered one of the oldest forms of life on Earth.
It was first used by the Aztecs to increase endurance, and today it is called a “superfood”, that is, a source of many important nutrients. Modern research confirms many of the purported benefits of taking spirulina and continues to explore its potential for treating health problems.
Spirulina is an algae, but it is more correct to say that it is photosynthetic cyanobacteria. They are called so because of the blue pigment phycocyanin they contain (from the Greek “kyanos” – “blue”). It is what gives it its characteristic color and has powerful anti-inflammatory properties.
The powder has a bitter taste, so many people add spirulina to yogurt, juices and smoothies. Seaweed (and its types) is available as a dietary supplement in health food stores.
Spirulina Nutrition Facts
1 teaspoon contains:
- Calories: 20
- Protein: 4 grams
- Fat: 1 gram
- Carbohydrates: 2 grams
- Fiber: 0 grams
- Sugar: 0 grams.
Spirulina is a good source of:
- Thiamine (vitamin B1)
- Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
- Niacin (vitamin B3)
- Copper
- Gland.
Spirulina consists of 60% protein – this is twice as much as in meat; the algae also exceeds beans, peas, chickpeas, beans and lentils in protein content. It contains more antioxidant beta-carotene than carrots. In terms of nutritional value, spirulina is superior to salmon caviar and quail eggs. Wherein microalgae is highly digestible. In addition, spirulina contains valuable fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6, chlorophyll and other pigments, vitamins B, C, D, A, E, potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium , sodium, zinc, etc. And this is not all that is contained in this microalgae.
Anti-cancer properties
Many of the antioxidants in spirulina have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Chronic inflammation contributes to the development of cancer and other diseases. Phycocyanin has been found to not only reduce inflammation in the body, but also inhibit tumor growth and kill cancer cells. This is why it is currently being studied for its potential in cancer treatment.
Heart Health
Research shows that spirulina protein may lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. These are the fats in our blood that contribute to plaque formation and hardening of the arteries, which increases the risk of heart disease, diabetes and pancreatitis. Spirulina also increases the production of nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax. Research shows it can lower blood pressure.
Relief of allergy symptoms
The anti-inflammatory effects of spirulina help people with allergies caused by pollen, animal dander and dust. One study found that participants experienced a significant reduction in allergic symptoms such as nasal congestion, sneezing and itching, suggesting that spirulina may be a good alternative to antihistamines.
Immune System Support
As we saw above, spirulina is rich in a number of vitamins and minerals. Research shows that it also increases the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight viruses and harmful bacteria. Laboratory studies suggest that the microalgae may also fight herpes, flu and HIV (AIDS), although much more research is needed to test this effect in humans.
- it should be taken with caution by people with autoimmune diseases, because spirulina improves immunity;
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spirulina contains phenylalanine, which is dangerous for people with phenylketonuria (a severe hereditary metabolic disease);
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It should not be taken if you have kidney or gallstones or undergoing chemical therapy.
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