Spirulina: Health Benefits of the Superfood Algae

While there is no food out there, no matter how “super” it is, that is the end-all and be-all of health, we think Spirulina comes pretty close.

What Is Spirulina?

Spirulina is a blue-green algae said to have produced the oxygen in our atmosphere billions of years ago so that other life forms could appear. See more about that here.

What Makes Spirulina Such a ‘Superfood’?

• It is one of the most potent nutrient sources out there
• It is a good source of B-12, although its absorption rate has not been verified as of yet, especially for strict vegans and vegetarians, since it is found almost exclusively in animal tissue.
• Spirulina contains Omega 3-,6 and 9s and is especially high in Omega-3s.
• Spirulina is extremely high in Chlorophyll, which helps remove toxins from the blood and boost the immune system.
• Spirulina is a great source of other nutrients including (according to Wikipedia): “Spirulina contains vitamins B-1(thiamine), B-2 (riboflavin), B-3(nicotinamide), B-6 (pyridoxine), B-9 (folic acid), vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A and vitamin E. It is also a source of potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium and zinc. Spirulina contains many pigments which may be beneficial and bioavailable”.
• Spirulina is also incredibly high in calcium with over twenty-six times the calcium in milk, making it excellent for children, the elderly and during pregnancy.
• more protein than beef, chicken or soybeans
• Omegas are essential in fighting heart disease, reducing arthritis, osteoporosis, diabetes, and depression as well as lowering bad cholesterol.
• Spirulina is a source of vitality and life energy. Consumers of Spirulina usually notice an increase in energy and overall health. It supplies nutrients needed to cleanse and heal while providing protection from all kinds of cancers as well as multiple viruses including influenza, herpes, mumps, and measles.
• Spirulina is also known for its high content of beta carotene, which is converted into vitamin A, an essential nutrient needed for healthy immunity, teeth, bones, mucous membranes, skin and eyes
• Spirulina’s antimicrobial effects help control the growth of pathogenic bacteria and yeasts. The chlorophyll means it is a blood cleanser. It also oxygenates the blood.
• Spirulina has been shown to increase fat-burning during exercise.

Is Spirulina Right for YOU?

• Spirulina has no side effects; it is very safe. It does contain iodine, to which some may be allergic. If you haven’t detoxed in awhile, add it to your regimen slowly, or you may experience the ill effects of detoxing.