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Supporters of a healthy diet do not stop looking for products that can positively affect overall well-being and the functionality of internal organs. These “superfoods” include substances of plant and animal origin, mushrooms and algae, which contain valuable trace elements and vitamins. One of the superfoods is spirulina, available for regular use in tablet or powder form.
What is spirulina?
Spirulina or little spiral is a genus of cyanobacteria that is characterized as one of the varieties of blue-green microalgae that can be eaten. Scientists call it a hydrocarbon vegetable, which is formed as a result of photosynthesis.
The first mention of the use of spirulina in food dates back to the 16th century. Blue-green algae from the surface of Lake Texcoco were collected by the ancient Aztecs. The collected product was pressed into cakes and further added to the preparation of various dishes.
Spirulina is actively cultivated in Central Africa, China and Russia. Of particular value are blue-green algae grown in natural conditions.
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Spirulina for the face
The valuable properties of spirulina have not gone unnoticed by cosmetologists. Dermatological studies have shown that microalgae has a complex effect on the skin of the face:
Regulates the work of the sebaceous glands.
Mattifies.
Rejuvenates.
Increases elasticity.
Improves relief.
The effect of spirulina is enhanced when combined with other natural products, so it is rarely used on its own.
Recipe for facial rejuvenation:
Oat flour.
Spirulina powder.
Quality sour cream.
All components take 1 teaspoon and mix thoroughly. The mixture is applied to the cleansed face and neck, left for 20 minutes. After the set time, the mask is washed off with slightly warm water.
With the systematic use of the mask, after 4-6 weeks, women notice freshness, improved complexion, smoothing wrinkles, no irritation and peeling.
Recipe for complete hydration:
Brewed green tea – 1 teaspoon.
Spirulina powder – 1 tablespoon
Kefir – 1 tablespoon.
Strain the green tea brew, add spirulina and kefir, mix thoroughly. The mask is applied to the skin, except for the areas around the eyes. Leave for 15 minutes, then rinse with warm water.
As a result, the skin of the face is saturated with vitamins, receives maximum hydration and nutrition.
Recipe for aging skin:
Withering of the skin begins after 30-35 years. Since that time, she needs intensive nutrition, restoration of elasticity. The following composition will help in maintaining youth and facelift:
Spirulina – 1 teaspoon.
Olive oil – 1/2 teaspoon.
Lemon juice – 10-12 drops.
All components are mixed. The finished mixture is applied to a cleansed face, left for 15-20 minutes, then washed off with slightly warm water.
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Spirulina with juice To make a drink, take:
Spirulina powder – 1 tablespoon
Orange – 1/2 pcs.
Pomegranate – 1/2 pcs.
Carrots – 1 pieces.
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons.
Pink Himalayan salt – 1 pinch
Grind fruits with carrots in a blender. Pour the resulting juice into a glass, add Himalayan salt and lime juice, mix well. The drink is ready to drink.
Smoothie with spirulina. Required Ingredients:
Spirulina – 1 tablespoon.
Celery – 100 g.
Tomato – 1 pieces.
Watermelon – 150 g.
Lime juice – 2 tablespoons.
Pink Himalayan salt – 1 pinch
All vegetables and fruits are mixed in a food processor or scrolled through a meat grinder. The finished smoothie is poured into a cup, spirulina, lime juice and salt are added, mixed thoroughly.
Spirulina salad. To prepare a healthy salad, take:
Spirulina powder – 1 tablespoon
Young spinach – 1 bunch.
Blanched, chopped asparagus – 50 g
Chicken breast – 150 g.
Tomatoes – 50 g.
Lime juice – 3 tablespoons.
Olive oil – 1 tablespoon.
Low fat yogurt – 3 tablespoons
Salt and pepper – to taste.
Cut vegetables, herbs and chicken breast with a knife. Add spirulina. Prepare dressing from yogurt, lime juice, olive oil. Mix everything in a bowl, add salt and pepper.
How is spirulina different from chlorella?
Spirulina and chlorella are not the same thing, contrary to some claims. Both organisms belong to the family of microalgae, but fundamentally differ from each other in a number of parameters:
Structure. Spirulina is a non-nuclear multicellular organism, while chlorella is a unicellular organism with a nucleus. Chlorella is smaller and has a different effect on the body.
Color. Spirulina has a blue-green color characteristic of cyanobacteria, while chlorella is a green algae.
Nucleic acid concentration. Nucleic acids directly affect DNA and RNA. There are twice as many of them in chlorella as in spirulina.
Digestibility. Before chlorella becomes available for absorption, it goes through a stage of destruction of cell membranes.
Chlorophyll concentration. In spirulina, chlorophyll is two times less than in chlorella.
The content of protein, iron, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). Chlorella has extremely low levels of iron, protein and GLA.
relationship with heavy metals. Cell walls of chlorella are characterized by a specific structure, which forces it to bind with salts of heavy metals and other pollutants.
How to take spirulina?
Spirulina supplements are available in the pharmacy network in several forms:
Powder – the most budget option, has a specific smell.
Capsules – have a gelatin shell, are easy to take.
Tablets – have a specific taste, can be used in crushed form.
Inside, spirulina preparations are taken in recommended doses 1-3 times a day with meals.
How to improve the taste of spirulina?
The specific taste of spirulina cannot be called pleasant. If you are taking microalgae powder, you can use:
Banana.
Orange or grapefruit juice.
Kiwi.
An Apple.
Cucumber.
Fruit syrup.
Yogurt.
Milk.
In order not to face the problem of bad smell or taste, most people prefer spirulina in capsules or tablets.
Possible harm and contraindications
Before taking spirulina, certain categories of people require a medical consultation:
Patients with phenylketonuria.
People taking drugs that affect blood clotting.
Pregnant and lactating women.
People with thyroid disease.
With autoimmune disorders.
Patients with urolithiasis.
Generally, spirulina is well tolerated. However, repeated excess of the recommended dosages of the drug can provoke unpleasant symptoms:
Allergic reactions.
Insomnia.
Muscle pain.
Headache.
Excessive sweating.