8 Benefits of Spirulina

Spirulina has gained a lot of attention recently and is regarded as one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Found in tropical regions around the world, namely Hawaii, spirulina comes from blue-green microalgae, a freshwater plant, and has been consumed for centuries due to its high nutrition value. Today, it is one of the most researched and talked about superfoods and is often regarded as a “miracle from the sea.” It’s available in powder and tablet form and can single-handedly regenerate your health when taken consistently.

Spirulina Facts:

Provides an excellent source of vitamins A, K1, K2, B1, B2, B12 and iron, manganese and chromium, along with phytonutrients such as carotenoids, Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and phycocyanin
Phycocyanin is an incredible antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and has hepatoprotective and neuroprotective effects
Contains more beta-carotene than carrots
Contains more iron than spinach
Contains more protein than tofu
Contains more antioxidants than blueberries

Here are the eight benefits of incorporating spirulina into your diet on a daily basis.

Detoxes Heavy Metals

Believe it or not, arsenic poisoning is still prevalent, and the United States is one of the nations still consuming arsenic at high levels. In one study, a group of participants who had experienced arsenic poisoning was given a spirulina and zinc supplement while another group was given a placebo. The group that received the spirulina and zinc supplement showed a significant decrease in arsenic, while the placebo group remained the same. (1)

Balances Microbiome and Prevents Leaky Gut

A healthy gut is essential to prevent disease. Spirulina possesses antimicrobial properties that inhibit the growth of candida while encouraging healthy bacteria to flourish in your gastrointestinal tract. The increase in healthy bacteria helps prevent leaky gut, a condition where the lining of the small intestine allows undigested food particles, toxic waste, and bacteria to leak out and flood the bloodstream.

May Prevents Cancer

According to Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, “In healthy humans, AFA-algae (spirulina) appears to increase blood levels of natural killer cells (a type of immune cell). AFA-algae also shows antiviral and anti-mutation activity in the laboratory.” Although more research is needed to confirm that spirulina may help in preventing cancer, the anti-viral and anti-mutation activity it provides is evidence that this superfood can significantly boost the immune system function.

Lowers Blood Pressure

Spirulina contains a pigment called Phycocyanin, which scientist how found to lower blood pressure by reducing endothelial dysfunction efficiently. Endothelial dysfunction refers to the diminished production/availability of nitric oxide or an imbalance in the relative contribution of the endothelium (the inner lining of blood vessels) derived relaxing and contracting factors. (3) It has also been shown to reduce total cholesterol in lab studies!

Boosts Energy

Because spirulina is a complete protein, it contains all of the essential amino acids including the ones the body cannot produce, resulting in a phenomenal energy boost. It also includes high levels of iron and antioxidants that add invigorating and anti-fatigue effects throughout your day!

Aids In Weight Loss

Spirulina’s nutrient dense consistency promotes weight loss and low-fat stores. Its high protein content makes your body work harder to metabolize resulting in lean tissue and fat burning along with curbing hunger.

Provides A Boost For The Brain

The antioxidant levels in spirulina contribute to battling oxidative stress we receive on a daily basis. In some studies, this has shown to improve memory and provide a neurological boost and healthy brain activity! Other benefits spirulina offers reducing anxiety, stress, depression and attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).

Is A Major Anti-Inflammatory

Chronic inflammation causes numerous degenerative diseases resulting in aging and stress on the body. The pigment and antioxidant, phycocyanin, has been shown to reduce inflammation in the body and work against aging at the cellular level.