Microalgal food supplements are becoming increasingly popular due to their promising health benefits and high nutritional value. Spirulina has been termed a “magic agent” due to its utility in food, cosmetics, and as an anticancer agent. Spirulina powder can be added to smoothies, juice, or soups and can boost our energy levels and benefit skin. The taste of Spirulina can be compared to seaweed, having a savory ocean flavor.
Spirulina is considered a high-quality food supplement and one of the richest plant-based protein sources. The protein content of spirulina falls between 50% and 70% of its dry weight; this is quite high compared to soy having 35% protein content. It also is an excellent source of life vitamins such as vitamin B1, B2, B3, and significant quantities of vitamin E
One of the main factors inhibiting people from using Spirulina is a lack of awareness of the associated health benefits. Spirulina has many health benefits such as enhancing the immune system and providing an excellent source of antioxidants. Spirulina can help reduce gas, bloating, and indigestion, and is one of the best supplements to lower blood sugar. Spirulina also has protective effects against heavy metal intoxication, radiation, malnutrition, as well as fighting against mental health illnesses such as depression.
Spirulina and Iron Absorption
The iron in Spirulina is 60% better absorbed than iron sulphate in other complements. Consequently, it could represent a viable alternative to iron supplements for anemic and/or pregnant women. Our bodies absorb iron more efficiently when consumed with foods or drinks rich in vitamin C. Vitamin C increases the solubility of iron in the small intestine. Foods that are rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, cantaloupe, and peppers. It is important to incorporate foods into our diet with higher levels of vitamin C when consuming foods or supplements with high levels of iron.
The Benefits of Spirulina for an Active Lifestyle
This superfood can also be linked to a boosted energy level when used prior to physical activity. Daily use of spirulina significantly reduces muscle fatigue. Spirulina may also allow for increased fat loss in healthy adults. Taking spirulina prior to moderate cardiovascular exercise decreases oxidative damage, decreases glucose oxidation, and increases the amount of fat being burned for fuel. Increased metabolic rate due to exercise is helpful to boost our energy levels and support quality sleep. For your body and mind to stay healthy, a healthy diet and exercise must be incorporated into your routine.
Spirulina’s Anti-Cancer Properties
Spirulina contains a blue pigment, phycocyanin, which supports a healthy inflammatory response and acts as a free radical scavenger to facilitate antioxidant properties. While spirulina may not be a “cure,” its anticancer properties are extremely promising [ . Research has shown that phycocyanin (specifically from spirulina) could inhibit cancer growth. Although further research needs to be made regarding this subject, these findings show optimism in natural solutions.
Spirulina and Neurodegenerative Diseases
Studies show that besides preventing oxidative damage in muscles, spirulina can prevent oxidative damage and reduce the levels of harmful proteins in the brain. This suggests that spirulina can help prevent memory loss . Inflammation is a major contributor to several major neurodegenerative diseases, including Parkinson’s disease. Scientists have shown that spirulina reduces neurotoxicity and inflammation in the brain , creating future advancements in the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
pirulina and Weight Loss
Multiple studies demonstrate spirulina’s ability to improve health markers in obese patients, including weight loss. Researchers in some studies found statistically significant reductions in body mass, and waist circumference with the consumption of spirulina. They also recorded lower levels of bad cholesterol and higher antioxidant levels. Spirulina has been used in part as a treatment for hypoglycemia. Research shows that spirulina can reduce blood glucose and lipid profiles while offsetting the metabolic issues associated with fructose intake in our diets.
Blood Pressure Regulation
Studies have shown that spirulina is a potent remedy for cardiovascular diseases that create plaque build-up within arteries and cause poor circulation. Spirulina also helps to lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure thereby making it a potential remedy for hypertension.
Heavy Metal Detoxification Properties
The air we breathe, the water we drink, and the food we eat all contain unnaturally high levels of harmful substances which our body attempts to remove. Excessive pollution in our environment makes it vital that we support our body’s detox efforts. Arsenic is a heavy metal, a carcinogen, and a well documented poisonous substance. Long-term exposure to arsenic through drinking water may cause cancer of the skin, lungs, urinary bladder, or kidneys. Some studies have linked arsenic to cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Adding Moreover, Spirulina is an efficient chelating agent for toxins such as mercury, other heavy metals such as cadmium and lead.
Blood Sugar Balance
Scientific studies have shown that spirulina supplements lower blood sugar naturally. Additionally, spirulina lowers total cholesterol and increases blood HDL. Research also suggests that Spirulina can help type 2 diabetes patients manage their blood sugar levels. Spirulina is an excellent supplement to lower blood sugar naturally.
Spirulina and Probiotics
Our digestive system is a densely populated community of different types of bacteria that require probiotics and prebiotics to keep a healthy balance. Research has shown that the Probiotics population in the human gastrointestinal tract can be increased by Spirulina consumption.
Spirulina acts as a prebiotic, also known as fibre that acts as a food source that helps the good bacteria in our gut grow. This superfood co‐culturing of spirulina and probiotics can stimulate growth and increase the viability of probiotics in the digestive system.
Spirulina is a superfood like no other, it can be produced sustainably and has numerous health benefits, all of which will lead to its increased utilization in the food industry in the near future.
AzmaBiotech’s organic spirulina is the 100% additive-free way to add this superfood to your daily diet and will allow you to enjoy an unparalleled complement of health benefits.
