5 Benefits of Spirulina for a Natural Health Boost
July 11, 2022
In This Healthy Insight:
- What is Spirulina?
- How is Spirulina Harvested
- What Nutrients are in Spirulina?
- What are the Benefits of Spirulina?
What is Spirulina?
Spirulina, also known as phytoplankton, is commonly described as a blue-green microalgae, but it is actually a cyanobacteria that contains chlorophyll. It flourishes in warm climates, and you might be surprised to learn that it’s the green film (scum) floating in your local pond. But don’t let that deter you. It’s got plenty of good stuff going for it.
It has been used for centuries throughout Central America and Africa but became popular around the world in the 1970s. It’s even a staple in NASA diet plans due to its healthy content.
How is Spirulina Harvested?
Spirulina may be harvested naturally or artificially grown in warm, alkaline water. It is then turned into a thick paste and dried or freeze-dried. Spirulina can absorb heavy metals from the water where it is grown. As you can imagine, it has a similar, powerful effect on the body too. When it is cultivated for commercial, dietary and medicinal purposes it is best to do so in closely monitored environments, so always be sure to purchase it from a trusted source.
What Nutrients are in Spirulina?
Spirulina may be one of the most nutrient-packed foods on Earth. It is 60-70% protein, making it a a big bonus for vegetarians.
Spirulina is also a great source for:
- B vitamins – B1, B2, B3, B12 and folic acid
- Copper, iron, phosphorous and nucleic acids
- Vitamins A, C, D and E
- Antioxidants
What are the Benefits of Spirulina?
Spirulina is known to have a wide variety of natural health benefits. Here are five things it can do for you:
Supplement Your Diet
Closely related to other green foods like chlorella and kelp, Spirulina is considered to be a “super food,” meaning it delivers extremely high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and nutrients in exchange for very few calories. This makes Spirulina an ideal supplement to any diet, especially those requiring special dietary support including vegetarians.
Spirulina has over 26 times the calcium in milk with a high content of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), a fatty acid found in breast milk essential for helping babies grow strong. As mentioned above it is chock-full of beneficial vitamins, minerals and nutrients.
Bolster Your Immune System
Spirulina delivers powerful concentrations of beneficial vitamins, minerals and proteins that naturally give your immune system a boost. It also has an incredibly high content of antioxidants to fight free radicals.
Maintain Digestive Health
The amino acids in Spirulina can transform into digestive enzymes that help break down protein and carbohydrates in your food. This is especially important for individuals who are on a high protein diet as well as those who want to combat the high carb Western diet. Spirulina supports healthy levels of lactobacillus in the intestines which inhibit the growth of some harmful bacteria.
Support Weight Loss Goals
Since Spirulina is about 60-70% protein, it can help build lean muscle mass while curbing hunger that may result from strenuous exercise. It is high in fiber, an important aspect of a healthy diet and weight management. Additionally, Spirulina can increase energy levels, fueling your motivation to exercise.
Give Skin a Youthful Glow
Because it has numerous nutrients and important amino acids, Spirulina keeps your skin beautiful and glowing. It supports metabolism throughout your body, including your skin so toxins don’t build up, just leaving it detoxified, hydrated and supple.
Learn More about Spirulina
Spirulina may contain naturally occurring iron, and individuals with certain conditions should avoid or limit their intake. As always, check with your doctor before supplementing with any natural health product.
To learn more about how Spirulina can benefit you, check out these green foods now.
