11 Amazing Health Benefits of Spirulina

Do you want to know which green powder beats all the other green powders besides water (literally)?

What is spirulina?

Spirulina is a blue-green algae that is also called a superfood or “food of the future”. They are essentially photosynthetic cyanobacteria. They got their name from the blue pigment phycocyanin they contain (from the Greek “kyanos” – “blue”). It not only gives color to the product, but also has an anti-inflammatory property. Over many centuries of existence, the algae has acquired a unique biochemical composition, the like of which does not exist in nature anymore. And that’s why.

Spirulina is 60% protein, which is twice as much as meat. This is exactly the protein that contains eight amino acids that a person receives with food. In terms of protein, the product surpasses even beans, peas, chickpeas, beans and lentils. Spirulina also contains fatty acids that are important for the body. For example, omega-6 helps the reproductive system and reduces the feeling of pain and inflammation. In addition, the product contains many other valuable substances: 18 amino acids, phytonutrients, copper, iron, manganese, potassium and B vitamins.

In one tablespoon of spirulina (approximately 7 g):

• 20 kcal;
• 4 g protein;
• 1 g fat;
• 2 g carbohydrates;
• 0.3 g fiber.

So discover the amazing health benefits of spirulina ! This green superfood, which has been around for 3,5 billion years, grows in alkaline freshwater lakes, and contains …

• 6 times more protein than eggs
• 7 times more calcium than milk
• 50 times more iron than spinach
• 10 times more potassium than most fruits and vegetables
• 4-6 times more iron than raw beef liver
• plethora of antioxidants in just one teaspoon

Apart from these obvious reasons to start eating spirulina, it also has over 12 amazing health benefits that have been proven and scientifically based. So without further ado, here are the benefits:

1-Antiviral

Algae are an incredible antiviral. It has been found in several studies (here, here and here), that they inhibit the replication of the virus, and thus stop the spread of viruses like herpes simplex type I, the human cytomegalovirus, the virus of the measles, mumps virus, influenza A virus and HIV-1.

Spirulina inhibits the penetration of the virus into the host cells, and literally inhibits the protein synthesis of the virus itself (without suppressing the protein synthesis of the host cell – in other words it leaves the cells healthy). Also perfect for treating sinusitis.

2-Anti-Cancer

There have been many studies on cancer and the effects of spirulina. Due to the breadth of the studies, I’ll basically synthesize what they say in one paragraph or less (and provide you with sources here, here, and here).

The phycocyanin contained in spirulina helps fight free radicals and inhibits the production of inflammatory signaling molecules, which is a major factor implicated in cancer.

The antioxidant activity of spirulina, in particular beta-carotene, vitamin C, phenols, amines and phospholipids contained in this algae, is particularly powerful.

Studies have been conducted which have shown the effectiveness of Spirulina in reversing oral leukoplakia in tobacco and paan chewers in Kerala, India.

Complete regression of cancer was seen in 57% of subjects – when they stopped taking spirulina 45% of them developed recurrent lesions.

3-Cholesterol Reducer 

Yep, spirulina also helps lower cholesterol! A handful of studies (1, 2, 3) have shown that spirulina is effective in lowering bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing good cholesterol (HDL).

Spirulina contains a high concentration of GLA fatty acids which prevent the build up of cholesterol in the body.

It lowers serum cholesterol levels in people with hypercholesterolemia, and has been shown to reduce the amount of fatty deposits in the arteries.

4-Reduction of Diabetes and Hypertension

Due to its high nutrient content, it is no wonder that spirulina can help diabetics and reduce high blood pressure.

Studies (1, 2, 3) have found that spirulina supplementation lowers fasting blood sugar and improves long-term glucose regulation. When it comes to lipids, triglyceride levels also drop significantly.

The combination of these results shows that spirulina is in fact excellent at controlling blood glucose levels and helps improve the lipid profile of patients with type 2 diabetes.

To read: The benefits of coconut water

5-Natural Treatment of Anemia

Do you have an anemia problem? Spirulina can solve it! Spirulina is incredibly rich in iron and vitamin B12, and it has been shown to reduce anemia and immunosenescence in elderly subjects.

Another study found that spirulina helped raise blood hemoglobin levels by 1,32 g / dl (11,65%) among a group of anemic girls aged 18 to 22.

It is clear that the massive amounts of chlorophyll, iron, protein, and other nutrients found in microalgae help overcome anemia and other iron related issues in the blood.

6-Detoxification of the Liver and Kidney

The antioxidant effects of spirulina have been well documented in studies of liver or kidney damage (unfortunately in rats).

Spirulina improved the antioxidant status of the liver and kidneys in this study, and brought the biochemical parameters of the liver and kidneys back to normal values ​​of the control group.

It also reduces the toxicity of the liver, kidney and testes. People with long-term kidney disease usually also have poor immunity, and are prone to catching colds and infections.

Consuming spirulina every day improves immunity, as well as the health of your liver and kidneys.

7-Improvement of the Immune System

Being a fantastic source of antioxidants, it is no wonder that Spirulina is a great contributor to improving the immune system.

The most active component, phycocyanin, which gives Spirulina its unique blue-green color is the main antioxidant you can thank!

One study showed that the functions of natural killer (NK) cells improved after administration of spirulina in more than 50% of subjects.

Natural killer cells are lymphocytes (white blood cells) that bind to certain tumor cells and cells infected with a virus – spirulina enhances this effect.

Another study in chickens found that spirulina improves phagocytosis of macrophages, and improves the functions of mononuclear phagocytic systems, increasing resistance to disease.

8-Radiation protection

Nuclear radiation, especially that from the recent disaster in Fukushima, Japan, is a major concern.

We are exposed to radiation on a daily basis, and it not only affects us, but affects our supply of air, water and food.

Spirulina has the ability to naturally break down and remove radioactive isotopes and heavy metals from our body.

A study published in the Journal of Medicinal Food in 2011 found that the phycocyanins in spirulina protect unborn babies from the effects of cadmium exposure.

This is a good thing, given that there is a high concentration of cadmium in our food (which is absorbed by the soil).

Another study found that spirulina reduced levels of radioactivity in urine by 50% in just 20 days – researchers gave children 5 grams of it at the Institute of Radiological Medicine in Minsk, Belarus, and found that the spirulina decreases the radioactive dose load absorbed in food contaminated with Cesium-137 and Stronium-90.

 9-Improved Digestion

Digestive health is improved when you start consuming spirulina. In The Colon Health Handbook, Robery Gray describes spirulina as a “metabolic activator,” which works directly on the body and helps burn mucoid plaques that get stuck in the pockets of our colon.

Research in Japan (Effects of Spirulina on Cecal Content in Rats. By Y. Tokay, et al., 1987) also showed that laboratory rats that ate spirulina had higher levels of lactobacillus and a higher level of lactobacillus. greater absorption of vitamin B from their diet.

Spirulina is also rich in niacin, which supports enzyme function, controls appetite, and promotes healthy digestion.

10-Anti-Aging

Spirulina is an excellent anti-aging agent. Due to its high concentration of antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and phytonutrients, it is one of the best superfoods for fighting the signs of aging.

Antioxidants attack free radicals that roam the whole body and damage the structure and function of DNA (which ultimately leads to aging of the body).

By decreasing damage and increasing DNA repairs, and improving the body’s immune function, Spirulina is a staple in your daily routine.

11-Metabolic Balance and Weight Loss

Although spirulina does not directly influence weight loss, it does provide the body with the right conditions to help achieve this goal. Spirulina is one of the richest natural sources of gamma linolenic acid (GLA).

GLA helps regulate blood sugar levels and prevent food cravings. It also contains phenylalanine, which satisfies your appetite and helps control the appetite control center located in the brain.

For more information, also discover the article on bienvenuechezvero

And if you are still wondering where to find this super food you can order spirulina here.

How much spirulina can you eat per day?

On average, this volume is 5 g. Spirulina can be consumed in the form of powder, capsules or tablets. You can use the product as an additional source of protein and nutrients. The main thing is to maintain a balance and consume food correctly so that the body receives all the necessary substances.

How to choose the right spirulina ?

1.     Manufacturer. Check if it is well known and what reputation it has earned among experts and consumers. A manufacturer that values ​​its reputation pays great attention to a thorough analysis of the quality of raw materials and provides multi-stage control over the production process.

2.     Raw spirulina from unverified sources may contain heavy metals and toxic compounds. Some of these are produced by other blue-green algae that live side by side with spirulina and can be introduced into its biomass when harvested. An example of such a toxin is microcystin. It has an extremely negative effect on the liver and contributes to the development of oncological pathology. In addition, spirulina suspension after harvest can become a substrate for harmful organisms if not properly stored.

To protect yourself as much as possible, purchase products only from trusted manufacturers.

The well-known Russian pharmaceutical company Evalar today produces an excellent spirulina preparation in an easy-to-take tablet form. Unlike many other drugs, Spirulina Evalar contains not only a powder, but also an algae concentrate from a trusted foreign supplier. The drug is produced according to the international quality standard GMP ⁵ .

Spirulina Evalar contributes ⁶ :

Restoration of normal intestinal microflora (normalization of the composition and functional activity of intestinal microflora)

 Removal of toxins, excess fats and decay products from the body

 Strengthening immunity

 Lowering cholesterol levels

Maintain normal blood sugar levels

 Increasing stress resistance

 Powerful antioxidant action

Prolongation of active longevity (Anti-Age effect)

Questions, remarks or comments? Do not hesitate, we will reply to you in the comments!