Spirulina is one of my favourite superfoods because it is one of the most nutritious plant-like organisms known to humans. I regard it as the ultimate superfood powerhouse. Although there are other super-greens such as chlorella, spirulina is almost the supergreen equivalent of a “multi-vitamin” as it’s a great all-rounder. Its nutritional benefits are both vast and impressive. Which makes it an invaluable food especially for vegetarians, vegans, anaemics, diabetics and anyone who is nutritionally compromised.
Spirulina is one of the oldest life-forms on the earth and it helped produce our oxygen-rich atmosphere billions of years ago. Actually a blue green algae, it is a 100% natural and highly nutritious micro water plant. It is found in both the ocean and large warm alkaline fresh water lakes. It is so nutrient dense you could survive on it and water alone.
Health Benefits Of Spirulina
Spirulina earns its superfood powerhouse status because it has the highest concentration of digestible vegetable protein (60-70%) with a perfectly balanced combination of essential amino acids. This is more protein than you will find in beef, chicken or soybeans.
Spirulina is loaded with nutrients. It has high levels of iron, a mineral in which many are deficient. It also contains calcium, magnesium, and Vitamins A, B, C, D, E and K. There are also small amounts of a number of other minerals. Often minerals are not absorbed well. However Spirulina actually improves mineral absorption. So your body can utilise the abundance of minerals it contains.
Spirulina is a wonderful plant source of the essential fatty acids omega-3 and omega-6, providing a great source for anyone who cannot take fish oil.
There’s always some concern about the effect of processing and shelf storage on nutrients. But spirulina only grows in extremely warm conditions and so is able to withstand the high temperatures involved in processing. it is able to retain its nutritional value unlike many other plant foods which deteriorate at these processing temperatures.
Spirulina contains only 3.9 calories per gram and still has all of these great benefits. It is both low calorie and nutrient dense.
The immune boosting qualities of spirulina can not be over stated. With its unique ability to fight infection, enhance cellular functioning, and even keep cancer at bay, it has a wide range of uses.
Spirulina Benefits
Here are some ways that spirulina is beneficial:
- Boosts energy and is a source of life force or vitality
- Protection against viruses including flu, herpes, mumps and measles
- Promotes healthy nerve tissue
- Increases antioxidant protection to fight free radicals
- Improves digestion and gut health Improves age spots, eczema, acne, rashes
- Fights the ageing process,
- Curbs the appetite to help weight loss
- Aids glaucoma, cataracts, poor vision
- Improves allergies & respiratory function
- Helps to detoxify radiation out of the body
- Plus it fights heart disease, reduces arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes and depression, and lowers bad cholesterol
Because it is so easily digested it packs a powerful punch when it comes to all these benefits.
Side Effects Of Spirulina
Good quality spirulina has no side effects.
This is one product that you need to be absolutely certain of the quality. Contaminated blue-green algae is incredibly toxic to the system and can cause a range of fresh health problems such as liver damage. Spirulina easily absorbs nutrients from water. So if the water contains pollution or heavy metals they concentrate in the spirulina cell. If this happens, then the product is no longer suitable for human consumption. There are a number of spirulina products on the market that are of questionable quality so select carefully. Either research well or buy from a qualified practitioner.
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Disclaimer
All information and opinions presented here are for information purposes only. They are not intended as a substitute for professional advice offered during a consultation with your health care provider. Do not use this article to diagnose a health condition. Speak to your doctor if you think your condition may be serious or before discontinuing any prescribed medication. Please consult with your health care provider before following any of the treatment suggested on this site, particularly if you have an ongoing health issue.
