Spirulina is a blue-green algae that was historically eaten by the Aztecs, but is now a very popular pet food (specifically fish and birds). Because of its beautiful blue-green color, spirulina is also used as a dye in homemade soaps, paints, or even play-does. For our intents and purposes however, spirulina is a powerful superfood with many health benefits.
Containing high levels of beta carotene, phycocyanin and polysaccharides, Spirulina boosts the immune system, resulting in an increased resistance to sickness and disease. It is thought that spirulina reduces allergy symptoms due to decreased histamine levels released by the body. Spirulina can prevent bacteria growth on skin which reduces acne, as well as increasing skin metabolism which decreases acne scarring.
As the highest natural protein source in the world at 60-70%, spirulina is considered nature's protein powder. Spirulina is a complete protein that is digested extremely well, containing all nine amino acids. Because protein plays an integral role in building muscle, anyone looking to increasing or maintaining muscle mass should look into spirulina as a whole food protein source.
Spirulina appears to prevent damage to skeletal muscles, which delays fatigue during intense exercise. Those in the athletic community have taken note, as the Cuban Ministry has given spirulina to their athletes, as have the Chinese Training Centre who even have their own spirulina farm.
Spirulina promotes digestive and bowel health, positively affecting bowel movement regularity and elimination. This is crucial, as elimination is one of the main ways our body rids itself of toxins.
Spirulina stimulates lactobacillus and bifidobacteria flora which increase nutrient absorption. Nutrient absorption is important if you want to use all of the vitamins and minerals you consume.
Spirulina is very high in antioxidants with an impressive ORAC score of over 24,000, which plays a vital role in protecting the body against disease-causing free radicals. Some think that antioxidants may even have the ability to slow the aging process.
Chock full of vitamins and minerals as well, Spirulina is especially high in iron, which many women are deficient in.
Spirulina mixes pretty well with anything from yogurt to water. The taste of spirulina can be a bit strong if it isn't significantly diluted. However, if you don't dump mountains of spirulina in, the taste is quite mild and pleasant. I usually put 1.5 tablespoons in for my 800ml Voss water bottle along with a few scoops of chia seeds. As with everything, play around and see what you like best.
Something to keep in mind: baking with spirulina is a bad idea, as many of the nutritional properties get destroyed by heat.
Spirulina is available in powder and capsule form. Taking pills is no fun, so I prefer buying spirulina in powder form. It costs about $10 a pound, which lasts quite a while.
Enjoy the interesting taste, plethora of health benefits, and beautiful color of spirulina!
Henrikson, Robert. "Spirulina: Health Discoveries from the Source of Life." Positive Health Online. Web. Sept. 1998. <http://www.positivehealth.com/article/nutraceuticals/spirulina-health-discoveries-from-the-source-of-life>.
Sarao, Carol. "Spirulina & Bodybuilding." LIVESTRONG.COM. Web. 26 May 2011. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/392469-spirulina-bodybuilding/>.
Ashton, Megan. "The Benefits of Spirulina Food." LIVESTRONG.COM. Web. 21 Apr. 2011. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/425082-the-benefits-of-spirulina-food/>.
Zehr, Michelle. "Spirulina for Acne." LIVESTRONG.COM. Web. 22 Aug. 2011. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/523439-spirulina-for-acne/>.
As the highest natural protein source in the world at 60-70%, spirulina is considered nature's protein powder. Spirulina is a complete protein that is digested extremely well, containing all nine amino acids. Because protein plays an integral role in building muscle, anyone looking to increasing or maintaining muscle mass should look into spirulina as a whole food protein source.
Spirulina appears to prevent damage to skeletal muscles, which delays fatigue during intense exercise. Those in the athletic community have taken note, as the Cuban Ministry has given spirulina to their athletes, as have the Chinese Training Centre who even have their own spirulina farm.
Spirulina promotes digestive and bowel health, positively affecting bowel movement regularity and elimination. This is crucial, as elimination is one of the main ways our body rids itself of toxins.
Spirulina stimulates lactobacillus and bifidobacteria flora which increase nutrient absorption. Nutrient absorption is important if you want to use all of the vitamins and minerals you consume.
Spirulina is very high in antioxidants with an impressive ORAC score of over 24,000, which plays a vital role in protecting the body against disease-causing free radicals. Some think that antioxidants may even have the ability to slow the aging process.
Chock full of vitamins and minerals as well, Spirulina is especially high in iron, which many women are deficient in.
Spirulina mixes pretty well with anything from yogurt to water. The taste of spirulina can be a bit strong if it isn't significantly diluted. However, if you don't dump mountains of spirulina in, the taste is quite mild and pleasant. I usually put 1.5 tablespoons in for my 800ml Voss water bottle along with a few scoops of chia seeds. As with everything, play around and see what you like best.
Something to keep in mind: baking with spirulina is a bad idea, as many of the nutritional properties get destroyed by heat.
Spirulina is available in powder and capsule form. Taking pills is no fun, so I prefer buying spirulina in powder form. It costs about $10 a pound, which lasts quite a while.
Enjoy the interesting taste, plethora of health benefits, and beautiful color of spirulina!
Henrikson, Robert. "Spirulina: Health Discoveries from the Source of Life." Positive Health Online. Web. Sept. 1998. <http://www.positivehealth.com/article/nutraceuticals/spirulina-health-discoveries-from-the-source-of-life>.
Sarao, Carol. "Spirulina & Bodybuilding." LIVESTRONG.COM. Web. 26 May 2011. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/392469-spirulina-bodybuilding/>.
Ashton, Megan. "The Benefits of Spirulina Food." LIVESTRONG.COM. Web. 21 Apr. 2011. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/425082-the-benefits-of-spirulina-food/>.
Zehr, Michelle. "Spirulina for Acne." LIVESTRONG.COM. Web. 22 Aug. 2011. <http://www.livestrong.com/article/523439-spirulina-for-acne/>.