The most nutritious food on the planet
I first came to spirulina by receiving a prescription by a naturopath. She told me to take it every day in large quantities. At the time, I didn’t understand why I had to take so much. Now I understand: Spirulina is one of nature’s greatest superfoods and has a proven track record of impressive health benefits.
What is Spirulina?
Spirulina is a type of non-toxic blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) and is one of the oldest forms of life on Earth. It was first used by the Aztecs as an endurance-booster. Spirulina is often used as a vegan source of protein and iron and is rich in a variety of other nutrients and phytochemicals. By inhibiting NADPH oxidase, Spirulina provides potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects. It is commonly available in health food stores and comes in the form of pills, tablets, or powder.1
Spirulina contains a variety of nutrients important for overall health such as:
- Protein
- Fat
- Carbohydrates
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin K
- Vitamin B1
- Vitamin B2
- Vitamin B3
- Vitamin B6
- Folate
- Pantothenic Acid
- Choline
- Calcium
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Phosphorus
- Potassium
- Sodium
- Zinc
- Copper
- Manganese
- Iron
- Selenium2
What are the benefits of spirulina?
Spirulina has many proven benefits, some of which are:
- Anti-cancer properties
- Heart health
- Allergy relief
- Immune system support
- Eye and oral health
- Powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
- Can lower bad LDL and triglyceride levels
- May reduce blood pressure
- May be effective against anemia
- May improve muscle strength and endurance
- May aid blood sugar control
- Weight loss
- Improving gut health
- Managing diabetes
- Boosting metabolism
- Anti-toxic action3,4
Are there any side effects to Spirulina?
Although few adverse effects are associated with the use of Spirulina, consuming Spirulina may cause headaches, allergic reactions, muscle pain, sweating, and insomnia in some cases. People with allergies to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid Spirulina.
If someone has a thyroid condition, an autoimmune disorder, gout, kidney stones, phenylketonuria or is pregnant or nursing, Spirulina may not be appropriate. Check with your healthcare provider before taking it.
It’s possible that Spirulina grown in the wild can absorb toxins from water, such as microcystins (known to cause severe liver damage), pollutants, and heavy metals. Most Spirulina sold in the United States is grown in laboratories in controlled conditions.
As with all supplements, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before using Spirulina to discuss whether it’s appropriate and whether it can be consumed in combination with your other medications and/or supplements.5
Where to obtain Spirulina
Once checking with your doctor and determining that Spirulina is safe to eat, it can be found at most health food stores or also online. Be sure to follow the recommended dose unless your doctor tells you otherwise.
1 – https://examine.com/supplements/spirulina/
2 – https://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/2765/2
3 – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina#TOC_TITLE_HDR_11
4 – https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324027#antitoxic-action
5 – https://www.verywellhealth.com/the-benefits-of-spirulina-89079
The Wellness System
