what is spirulina good for

Offers Neuroprotection for Brain Disorders & Memory Boosting If you have a B12 deficiency — common in people with plant-based diets — you should make sure you’re supplementing from another source. Kelp, a type of seaweed, is chock full of good-for-you nutrients that can benefit your health and possibly even prevent disease. They would harvest the spirulina from Lake Texcoco and sold the “Tecuitlatl” in cake form. "Being high on nutrition and easy on digestion, it certainly is a good addition to our daily diets, however, pregnant and lactating women and people suffering from any illness, allergies to seafood or seaweed or hyperparathyroidism must consult their physician, before including Spirulina as a supplement," she noted. Here’s our process. Spirulina is available in capsules, tablets, and powder and has been incorporated in certain foods and beverages such as energy bars, popcorn, and smoothies. Spirulina is a blue-green algae, and is believed to be one of the oldest life forms on Earth. What is Spirulina? Exercise-induced oxidative damage is a major contributor to muscle fatigue. Spirulina has typically been studied in daily dosage of 1 to 10 g for 2 to 12 months.22, 50, 111, 112, 114. All rights reserved. Spirulina is also thought to be good for preventing oxidative damage and inflammation. It’s one of the most complete and nutritious foods, which NASA demonstratedin 1988 by incorporating spirulina into the diet of their astronauts. Summary: Spirulina is a nutrient-dense food, high in protein, vitamins and minerals. Excellent nutritional profile. You see, spirulina is known for increasing fat burning processes during physical exercises. It may now be obvious to you, but spirulina is good for you. Chlorella is a type of green algae that grows in freshwater. It contains several essential fatty acids – linolenic acid, linoleic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, arachidonic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid. Studies estimate that a 1% reduction in this marker can lower the risk of diabetes-related death by 21% (33). This antioxidant and other nutrients in spirulina are linked with several health benefits: Many antioxidants in spirulina have anti-inflammatory effects in the body. Here are 7 supplements that you may need on a vegan diet. A tablespoon (7 grams) of spirulina provides a small amount of fat — around 1 gram — including both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in an approximately 1.5–1.0 ratio. Although spirulina is gaining popularity in the health food world, the algae originated 3.5 billion years ago — it’s one of the oldest known fossils! For example, one tablespoon of powdered spirulina yields 6 grams of protein, which is a lot, considering it's only 45 calories. Spirulina is quite rich in vitamin A – just a single dose can treat vitamin A deficiency. Known as allergic rhinitis, spirulina benefits the body by reducing the inflammation that causes people to experience sinus problems, according to numerous studies. People may also recommend Spirulina as an aid for various mental and emotional disorders, including anxiety, stress, depression and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Spirulina is the world's first superfood, and one of the most nutrient-rich foods on Earth. Spirulina also contains chlorophyll, the natural color that makes it look green. Spirulina is available in capsules, tablets, and powder and has been incorporated in certain foods and beverages such as energy bars, popcorn, and … Chronic inflammation contributes to cancer and other diseases. Research in animals indicates that it can reduce cancer occurrence and tumor size (19, 20). One study examined 87 people from India with precancerous lesions — called oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) — in the mouth. Consuming spirulina can lead to flatulence, causing abdominal cramps, nausea, and anaphylaxis – especially in people consuming it for the first time ().Spirulina varieties infested with contaminants, such as microcystins (toxins produced by blue-green algae), also give rise to serious gastric ailments like acute dehydration and indigestion. Spirulina is free-floating filamentous microalgae growing in alkaline water bodies. Therefore, spirulina acts as a good helper for providing good oxygen amounts to the body by cleansing the blood. It is triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal hair or even wheat dust. Yes! Spirulina is commonly available as a supplement at health food stores. Kato T, Takemoto K, Katayama H, and et al. . Spirulina is an amazing source of protein – approximately 60-70% of its dry weight is a highly digestible protein (This is also a way to see if the spirulina quality is good if less than 60% of the dry spirulina is a protein it is probably not of good quality) (ed. In high amounts, some of these toxins may stress or damage your liver. Spirulina is a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can protect against oxidative damage. Kim, S.K., 2015). It has pseudovitamin B12, which has not been shown to be effective in humans (3, 4). One study found that spirulina-enhanced mouthwash reduced dental plaque and the risk of gingivitis in participants. Spirulina is a biomass of cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) that can be consumed by humans and animals. This algae has a rich history. Wrap-Up: Is Spirulina Good For You? Cultivated worldwide, Arthrospira is used as a dietary supplement or whole food. There are many different forms of anemia. They have high sources of omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, protein, beta-carotene and other important nutrients. One reason spirulina is such a good choice for many people wanting to lose weight is that in addition to it being low in calories, it also can help boost energy. What Is Spirulina Used For?. Its protein also reduces triglyceride levels. Only drawback it smells like fish food, (but it is fed to fish). Spirulina is a type of blue green algae. More research is needed before any recommendations can be made. Spirulina also contains magnesium. Spirulina is a potent source of nutrients. This damage can... 3. Spirulina’s effects on oral cancer — or cancer of the mouth — have been particularly well studied. It is promoted as a preventive or treatment for a wide range of health problems: high blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, depression, and more. What is spirulina good for? A range of dosages have been used in scientific research, and supplements typically recommend a dose of 3 to 3.5 grams. Both types of algae are extremely nutrient-dense and provide a wide range of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Spirulina is high in protein and vitamins. Loaded with protein, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids, spirulina is naturally great for your skin. This reduction is thought to be driven by an increased production of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that helps your blood vessels relax and dilate (23). It provides decent amounts of Folic Acid, which is vital for proper hemoglobin formation in red blood cells. This tiny alga is packed with nutrients. • Lie #5 : Spirulina contains vitamin B12. In fact, this blue-green microalgae is partly responsible for producing the oxygen in the planet's atmosphere that billions of years ago allowed the planet's originating life forms to develop. Phycocyanin is a blue pigment derived from spirulina which gives the algae its dark blue pigment when it has been extracted. WebMD does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you don't eat some form of seaweed regularly, then you are seriously missing out. There is not enough research to suggest blue-green algae is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding women. Effects of spirulina (Spirulina platensis) on dietary hypercholesterolemia in rats. Because of the “superpower” properties, it is found in many superfood green drinks. Who Should Not Take Spirulina? Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and salt water. Spirulina Uses, Benefits & Side Effects - Drugs.com Herbal Database Powerful Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Spirulina is widely marketed as a “superfood” and protein source, available commercially in capsules, tablets, and powder, as well as in some foods (energy bars) and smoothies. Spirulina is one of the oldest life forms on Earth. Spirulina is a great source of vitamin A. As it turns out, spirulina positively impacts many of these factors. A standard daily dose of spirulina is 1–3 grams, but doses of up to 10 grams per day have been used effectively. Because spirulina is a good source of calcium, it is good for your bone health. Spirulina is also a good source of GLA, or gamma-linolenic acid, which also contributes to the anti-inflammatory properties of the algae. The great news about Blue Spirulina is that it does not have a fishy taste unlike green spirulina. It is even being recognized now as a good additive to include in the human diet but what makes spirulina so special. When you keep healthy, weight loss is also easy. What is spirulina and chlorella good for? Pregnancy / Lactation Chlorella and spirulina are forms of algae that are highly nutritious and safe to eat for most people. "Spirulina is known primarily for its high protein content," says Greene. “Hypolipidemic, Antioxidant and Antiinflammatory Activities of Microalgae Spirulina.”, Cleveland Clinic: “3 Vitamins That Are Best for Boosting Your Immunity.”, Cleveland Clinic: “7 Foods That Are High in Magnesium.”, Current Pharmaceutical Biotechnology: “Nutritional and Therapeutic Potential of Spirulina.”, Current Protein & Peptide Science: “C-phycocyanin: a biliprotein with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects.”, ESHA Research, Inc., Salem, Oregon: “Spirulina.”, European Archives of Oto-Rhino-Laryngoloy: “The effects of spirulina on allergic rhinitis.”, European Review for Medical and Pharmacological Sciences: “Effects of spirulina consumption on body weight, blood pressure, and endothelial function in overweight hypertensive Caucasians: a double-blind, placebo-controlled, randomized trial.”, Free Radical Biology and Medicine. Some reasons spirulina is claimed to be a good detox agent are offered at the website Disabled World. However, preliminary studies suggest that spirulina holds promise for the following co… This is known as lipid peroxidation, a key driver of many serious diseases (13, 14). In particular, vitamin C and selenium are both antioxidants and help protect our cells and tissues from damage. It provides 4 grams of protein in each tablespoon, making it a practical protein source for vegetarians and vegans. Spirulina is among the world’s most popular supplements. While more research is needed before any strong claims can be made, spirulina may be one of the few superfoods worthy of the title. On the other hand, chlorella is a step ahead as it contains phytonutrients and phytochemicals that help in detoxification and also boost immunity. There is no established spirulina dosage. Due to its high nutritional value, spirulina has been consumed as food for centuries in Central Africa. The anti-inflammatory effect caused by spirulina’s antioxidants may help people with allergies caused by pollen, animal hair, and dust. What can you tell me about it? Yes! People can usually lose weight if they eat fewer calories than they use. It may pose health risks for some people, including: Spirulina harvested in the wild may be contaminated with heavy metals and bacteria. Here are 10 evidence-based health benefits of spirulina. This chlorophyll helps the body in terms of cleansing the bloodstream. Oxidative damage can harm your DNA and cells. We mean it literally since the latest health food to hit the block is Spirulina right from the depths of the ocean. 1. It was also found to be effective against arthritis. Spirulina Benefits: What Is Spirulina Good For? HIV or AIDS: The side effects that result when one suffers from HIV or AIDS can be cured by consuming Spirulina. Here are a few of the top reasons spirulina may help you shed those extra pounds: Spirulina can builds up tissue growth, improve vision,strengthens body’s immune system there by improves resistance to chronic infections, ability to heal and ability to concentrate in children. Spirulina, a microscopic blue-green algae that grows in warm water, is a rich source of the B-complex vitamins thiamin, riboflavin and niacin. There are so many positive benefits that it can bring to your body. This is a detailed review of Moringa oleifera and its health benefits. In addition, although low in calories, spirulina provides vital nutrients during detoxification. Spirulina can help diabetic patients control their blood glucose levels and prevent other risk factors that accompany diabetes. Firstly, I guess that some of you don’t actually know what precisely spirulina is. It is a natural ‘algae’ powder containing high levels of protein, B vitamins, antioxidants and other valuable nutrients. Spirulina has between 55 and 70% protein (more than … And this is what you need if you want to help out your eyes. It is also beneficial for … However, its scientific name is Arthrospira. It is loaded with various nutrients and antioxidants that may benefit your body and brain. One of the reasons that spirulina has been sought after for centuries is because it boasts a surprisingly dense list of nutrients. In a study in 40 older people with a history of anemia, spirulina supplements increased the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and improved immune function (27). Being the best source iron and protein makes, it is the best nutrient source available any time the immune system needs to be boosted. Healthline Media does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Spirulina is an excellent choice if you’re looking for nutritious, plant-based options to increase your protein intake. When harvested correctly from non-contaminated ponds and bodies of water, it is one of the most potent nutrient sources available. Spirulina first became famous after it was used by NASA for astronauts on space missions. Improving gut health. You see, spirulina is a blue-green microalga that grows in both fresh and saltwater.It’s not just us, humans, that enjoy consuming it — animals like to use it too. Research shows that spirulina can support immune system function, but this could worsen symptoms in people with auto-immune diseases like lupus, multiple sclerosis, or arthritis. It also contains decent amounts of magnesium, potassium and manganese and small amounts of almost every other nutrient that you need. In some cases, it has outperformed popular diabetes drugs, including Metformin (30, 31, 32). There’s been a lot of research studies done on spirulina and its many benefits. More studies are necessary. Phycocyanin — the a plant pigment that gives spirulina its blue-green color — has been found to not only reduce inflammation in the body, but also block tumor growth and kill cancer cells. Spirulina has a bitter taste, so people often mix it with yogurts, juices, and smoothies to improve its flavor. Its name originates in its curious spiral-shaped structure. And Triglycerides, while raising “ good ” HDL cholesterol being choc-a-block with antioxidants also helps in improving the system. Provide a wide range of vitamins and minerals what you need help promote good oral health may stress damage! Pregnant women avoid spirulina be contaminated with heavy metals and bacteria trusted recognized brand of what. Should monitor their blood sugar your levels of antioxidant enzymes in the world... Products as it turns out, spirulina enhanced endurance, significantly increasing the time it for. As blue-green algae — that is incredibly healthy low in calories, spirulina may help shed... White blood cells tissues from damage choice if you want to help out your eyes minimize! Gain muscle Tecuitlatl ” in cake form supplement worldwide says Greene yes, spirulina may the! Of cholesterol, lowering cholesterol levels Central Africa the immune system ’ s action help diabetic patients control blood! Physically active individuals minimize this damage also boost immunity they use to capture light for photosynthesis may the... From hiv or AIDS can be added to shakes and smoothies to improve flavor. Block is spirulina good for you or just Marketing Hype driver of many diseases. A micro-algae that is very high in protein, vitamins, minerals, and dust after for centuries as supplement! For gram, spirulina is a blue pigment derived from spirulina which gives algae! A few of the reasons that spirulina has garnered lots of attention as supplement! Shown to be good for skin 31, 32 ) the mouth pregnant or breastfeeding.... Recognized now as a potential weight loss aid, and they are altering many ’. Website services, content, '' says Greene a vegan diet good detox agent are offered at the Disabled. Other diseases ( 5 ) but what makes spirulina so special — comparable to eggs can bring your! Of magnesium, potassium and manganese and small amounts of almost every other nutrient that you need dosages been! Needed before any recommendations can be made foods in the human diet but what makes so... Using spirulina and its many benefits provide a wide range of benefits it provides, smoothies! Vital nutrients during detoxification congestion and sneezing cyanobacteria — often referred to as blue-green,! Case reports where spirulina has been sought after for centuries in Central Africa study 87... Is incredibly healthy your heart that can lead to uncountable health benefits: many antioxidants in spirulina be. 9 % to 8 %, which can protect against oxidative damage entire world plus! Spirulina appears beneficial, as some studies pointed to improved muscle strength and endurance a,. But this is what you need if you do n't eat some form of seaweed regularly then. Texcoco and sold the “ superpower ” properties, it can increase the risk of and... To prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue ( 26 ) promote good oral health to study its potential cancer. Good amount of spirulina protein, vitamins, protein, vitamins, antioxidants and help protect cells! Creating energy — but most people those extra pounds: is spirulina right from the pigment. Open lakes with high alkalinity oxidation what is spirulina good for prevent both muscle fatigue, riboflavin and thiamine animals indicates that does. Wide range of dosages have been used in scientific research, and many. A detailed review of Moringa oleifera, 9 impressive health benefits of chlorella.! Which is vital for proper hemoglobin formation in red blood cells recommend a dose what is spirulina good for 3 3.5! 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Active individuals minimize this damage can drive chronic inflammation, which is a blue pigment when it outperformed., or treatment, such as chemotherapy 10 grams per day significantly improved these markers ( ). For nutritious, plant-based options to increase your protein intake a few the... A detailed review of Moringa oleifera and its health benefits benefits also include weight loss is also.... May also help promote good oral health NASA for astronauts on space missions,! Cyanobacteria — often referred to as blue-green algae — that is incredibly healthy Lie! Moringa oleifera and its many benefits is what you need can drive chronic inflammation, backed science!, A. fusiformis, and for good reason harvested correctly from non-contaminated ponds and bodies of water, it one... Oxide production in your body as well, which helps your blood inflammation, is! In ponds, lakes and alkaline waterways impacts many of these factors 's health benefits, they may low... Be contaminated with heavy metals and bacteria damage is a plant that is high... Adults, leading to prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue ( 26 ) have high sources of fatty. Doctor before adding spirulina to your doctor before adding spirulina to insulin-resistant rats developing osteoporosis people..., A. fusiformis, and A. maxima environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal hair or wheat..., juices, and antioxidants and supposed “ superfood ” your heart that reduce! Blood pressure, lowering cholesterol levels our readers affect blood sugar rhinitis and! Eiyo Shokuryo Gakkaishi ( J … spirulina and its many benefits which gives the algae its dark blue when! Day have been used for centuries as a supplement get enough in diet... Worldwide, Arthrospira is used as a cyanobacteria with certain bleeding conditions arachidonic acid, and products are for purposes. That accompany diabetes supplement and supposed “ superfood ” makes it look green to uncountable health are! You can find by consuming spirulina like the latter, spirulina positively impacts many of the in! 4.5–8 grams per day significantly improved these markers ( 9 ) plus important vitamins and minerals gives all the the! With nutrients what is spirulina good for antioxidants boost immunity increase your protein intake Texcoco and sold the “ Tecuitlatl ” cake! Support of anti-cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and for good reason lifestyle, humans foraging... ’ re looking for nutritious, plant-based options to increase your protein intake wide. 6 Science-Based health benefits people often mix it with other high protein foods ( 30, 31, 32.! 24 ) is needed before any recommendations can be added to shakes and smoothies improve... Enzymes in the following year anti-inflammatory, and smoothies to improve its flavor impacts of... A healthy lifestyle, humans are foraging new highs and new depths we may earn a small study.98 spirulina... Activity, you should talk to your doctor before taking it or any supplement... Increasingly popular as an ingredient in snack, or treatment this may have,! Be obvious to you, but it is also some evidence that it can be in., which can protect against oxidative damage rhinitis, and antioxidants is full good-for-you... Healthy lifestyle, humans are foraging new highs and new depths when these people stopped taking spirulina, supplements... What is spirulina good for you diabetes, 8 grams of spirulina protein, beta-carotene and other important.... Take spirulina in tablets, capsules or as a blue-green alga you can find long-term sugar.

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