28 Jan Spirulina Explained

Spirulina is a brightly colored derivative of blue-green algae that has many benefits when incorporated into the diet. 

Ancient cultures used to consume spirulina and the algae responsible for spirulina can grow in a wide variety of environments. Today it is widely used as a vegan protein source due to its numerous advantages over other sources. 

Spirulina is a fantastic source of plant protein that is high in quality and very dense. Comparably, it has very few calories when measured against the amount of protein it brings to the table. Only 7 grams of spirulina contains a whopping 4 grams of protein with only 20 calories in total (medical news today). Spirulina also boasts a wide variety of other important nutrients including B vitamins and beta-carotene. 

Spirulina also contains powerful antioxidants that can help fight and alleviate oxidative damage in your body and cells that has been linked to long term health complications in a number of conditions. The main nutrient that provides this attribute to spirulina is phycocyanin. Often referred to as the precursor to chlorophyll, this potent compound helps maintain cell membranes and can help decrease aging and its effects on the body. This compound is what provides the unmistakable color that is present in spirulina.  

Spirulina may also play a role in managing cholesterol in the blood and regulating blood lipid content. This could be due in part to the role it may have in increasing high-density lipoproteins (HDL’s) and lowering low-density lipoproteins (LDL’s) in the blood. 

In addition, spirulina may also play a role in promoting gut health through the development and support of the gut microbiome. More research needs to be done in the future to validate this claim, but the possibility that it can also support GI health and well-being is fantastic. 

The only warning against this product is the fact that it does contain the amino acid, phenylalanine. Individuals with phenylketonuria should not use this supplement due to the presence of this amino acid in its profile. 

Spirulina is available in many different forms, including tablets, powder, and capsules. This means it can be an incredible addition to smoothies, recipes, or just your daily supplement regimen. 

Sources : 

Medical News Today https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324027

Healthline https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina#TOC_TITLE_HDR_3

Mount Sinai https://www.mountsinai.org/health-library/supplement/spirulina