Spirulina
Spirulina is a green-blue algae, that is consumable by humans and animals. It is cultivated all over the world, being used as a whole food, dietary supplement, available in flake, powder form or tablet.
What is Spirulina
It used to be consumed by Aztecs, centuries ago, but it became famous when NASA proposed to be grown in space and consumed by the astronauts.It is a one of the greatest superfoods, due to the fact that is packed in lots of nutrients.
Spirulina powder contains almost 65% protein, and 100 grams of spirulina is equal to 290 calories. The spirulina contains all essential amino acids and is a complete protein thus it makes it a great food for vegetarians and vegans. It is rich in vitamin B complex and dietary minerals, such as magnesium and iron.
Spirulina Benefits
As with superfood supplements, spirulina offers many benefits and reasons for taking it.
Allergies
Taking spirulina has been reported to relieve symptoms such as a runny nose, sneezing, itching, and congestion typically associated with seasonal allergies.
AIDS & HIV
Taking spirulina can assist with inactivating human immunodeficiency virus
Eliminate Candida
It can help with decreasing candida growth which can be helpful for those with autoimmune diseases such as Lupus, Fibromyalgia, Crohn’s or chronic fatigue syndrome. Spirulina encourages healthy flora balance in the body.
Additional Benefits of Spirulina
- Lowers cholesterol
- Can Reduce Risk of Cancer
- Decrease Stroke Risk
- Normalize Blood Pressure
- Help with Weight Loss
- Boost Energy
- Arsenic and Heavy Metal Detoxification
How to Take Spirulina Powder
The standard dose ranges from 1-5 grams daily, but you can increase it over time. You can also spread that dosage throughout the day in rather than taking it all at once. Some will divide it up and take 2 or 3 doses totaling the 1-5 grams.
Add it in a glass of water, or in your smoothie or sprinkle it on food. It can sometimes have a fishy smell, but by mixing it with certain foods, you can make it unnoticeable. You also want to drink more water to help the spirulina be absorbed better.
It also comes in flakes, tablets, and capsules. Flakes work well on salads whereas powder is better for smoothies and energy drinks.
Buy Spirulina Powder
It also comes in flakes, tablets, and capsules. Flakes work well on salads whereas powder is better for smoothies and energy drinks.
Buy Spirulina Tablets
Side Effects of Spirulina
Although spirulina has been used safely for thousands of years, there have been some reported reactions.
- Some people have experienced a slight fever because an increasing metabolism can also increase the temperature of your body.
- Your feces may become a dark green color due to the high chlorophyll level in spirulina.
- Some other less common reactions include temporary itchiness and breakouts caused by the cleansing process your colon is going through while taking the spirulina.
- The detoxification of your body can also make you sleepy, and if this happens, you need to get more rest.
- Additionally, the opposite may occur, and you feel excited and restless.
It comes down to the individual and how your body reacts.
Spirulina FAQ
What does spirulina do to the body?
Spirulina can help as an anti-inflammatory because of the many antioxidants in it. Some research has also shown it to help with pain relief.
What does spirulina do for your skin?
Spirulina can give your skin a radiant appearance and help decrease acne.
What is the best way to consume spirulina?
The best way to take spirulina is adding spirulina powder to a smoothie or mixing it with water and drinking it.