Spirulina is a spiral blue-green micro-algae (cyanobacteria) consumed for centuries for its high nutritional value and innumerable health benefits. Although one might find its’ taste to be quite similar to ‘pond scum,’ it is not lesser than a superfood. Explore the nutritional and health benefits of Spirulina here:
Nutritional Benefits of Spirulina
The quality and quantity of nutrients present in Spirulina are enough to make you fall in love with the microalgae. So, let’s peep into the nutritional facts about Spirulina and explore their benefits: (1) (2) (3)
Protein
Spirulina’s dry weight is almost 60% to 70% protein. The microalgae’s protein content is twice the amount of carbohydrates it offers. Although it can’t be considered better than the milk or egg you consume regularly, it is a superior choice to beans. Another great thing about spirulina-protein is that it is very much ‘usable,’ and its’ NPU (Net Protein Utilization) lies between 50% and 61%.
Amino Acid
Spirulina contains almost all sorts of amino acids required by our body. These chemical compounds work as the ‘building blocks’ of proteins. As a result, the quality of proteins the aquatic creature provides goes significantly higher.
GLA
Spirulina is one of the best natural resources of GLA or Gamma Linolenic Acid. It is an essential fatty acid, also known as omega-6 fatty acid, with excellent anti-inflammatory properties. Spirulina also works even more efficiently as it contains omega-3 essential fatty acids.
Also Read – Brazil Nuts: Nutrition, Health Benefits & Side Effects
Vitamin
Spirulina contains vital vitamins such as A, B, C, D, and E. It contains a variety of B vitamins, including thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), nicotinamide (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), etc. Studies have found that it comprises pseudovitamin B12, similar to the actual vitamin B12, but may not be effective in improving human health.
Minerals
Spirulina contains many macro and micro minerals essential for our body. These include calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, zinc, copper, phosphorus, manganese, selenium, chromium, etc. The calcium present in Spirulina is as much as 26 times greater than that found in milk.
Heath Benefits of Spirulina
Not only does Spirulina have nutritional benefits, but it also comes with some excellent health-boosting qualities. Check out how you can perk up your health by relying on the efficiency of the blue-green algae:
Detoxicates Body
Being a cyanophyte, Spirulina consists of a vast quantity of chlorophyll, and that too. It helps our blood stay clean by eradicating toxins and other foreign substances. As the bloodstream is cleansed, the body gets detoxicated too.
Boosts Immunity
Our immune system becomes significantly more vital when our blood is free from toxic materials. So, Spirulina can boost our immunity through blood cleansing methods and keep us away from various infections and diseases.
Reduces Oxidative Stress
Spirulina is enriched with many antioxidant compounds, such as beta-carotene, tocopherol, phycocyanin, phenolic substances, etc. These can prevent the DNAs inside our cells from getting damaged by free radicals, thereby keeping oxidative stress at bay. Moreover, researchers have revealed that Spirulina has an ORAC (Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity) around four times higher than blueberries, indicating that the concentration and ability of antioxidants present are much more significant than many other foods.
Controls Cholesterol Levels
When it comes to keeping hypercholesterol at bay by managing the levels of LDL (low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein or good cholesterol) together, you can depend on Spirulina. It is rich in essential fatty acids (especially omega-3, omega-6, and omega-9), which are truly helpful in maintaining the standard cholesterol levels in our body.
Averts Heart Diseases
Spirulina effectively lowers our cholesterol levels, eventually preventing arterial plaques from forming. As a result, the risks of developing severe cardiovascular diseases also go down to a great extent. The antioxidant properties of Spirulina can also help us deal with various heart issues and avert those successfully.
Prevents Fatal Diseases
Spirulina’s antioxidative nature is very beneficial for avoiding chronic fatal diseases and sustaining good health. It can keep the DNA inside our cells in first-class condition, which is essential to stay away from cancer, diabetes, stroke, heart attack, and so on.
Cures Allergies
Spirulina holds excellent anti-inflammatory properties due to the presence of GLA in it; therefore, it is considered a reliable cure for allergies and other allergic reactions. But, one must have it regularly to enjoy the results in the long run.
In a nutshell, Spirulina can do immense good to us both nutrition-wise and health-wise. However, you must consult an expert instead of taking the doses randomly.
Summary
Spirulina, a blue-green micro-algae with a taste often likened to “pond scum,” boasts incredible nutritional and health benefits. Spirulina is a superior dietary source with 60-70% protein, rich amino acids, Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA), vitamins, and minerals. Health benefits include detoxification, immune system boost, reduced oxidative stress, cholesterol control, prevention of heart diseases, protection against fatal diseases, and allergy relief due to its anti-inflammatory properties. Though a superfood, it is crucial to consult experts for precise dosage and maximize its positive impact on overall well-being.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Spirulina?
Spirulina is a spiral blue-green micro-algae (cyanobacteria) consumed for centuries due to its high nutritional value and numerous health benefits.
How much protein does Spirulina contain?
Spirulina’s dry weight comprises almost 60% to 70% protein, making it a rich source of this essential nutrient.
Is Spirulina a complete protein?
Yes, Spirulina contains almost all essential amino acids the body requires, making it a complete protein source.
What is GLA, and why is it significant in Spirulina?
GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid) is an essential fatty acid with anti-inflammatory properties in Spirulina. It also contains omega-3 fatty acids.
What vitamins does Spirulina contain?
Spirulina contains vital vitamins such as A, B, C, D, and E, including B vitamins like thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, pyridoxine, and folic acid.
What minerals are present in Spirulina?
Spirulina contains a range of macro and micro minerals, including calcium, potassium, magnesium, sodium, iron, zinc, copper, phosphorus, manganese, selenium, chromium, and more.
How does Spirulina detoxify the body?
Spirulina, rich in chlorophyll, helps cleanse the bloodstream by eliminating toxins and foreign substances, contributing to overall body detoxification.
How does Spirulina boost immunity?
By cleansing the blood and removing toxins, Spirulina enhances the immune system, reducing the risk of infections and diseases.
How does Spirulina reduce oxidative stress?
Spirulina’s antioxidant compounds, such as beta-carotene, tocopherol, phycocyanin, and phenolic substances, protect DNA from damage by free radicals, reducing oxidative stress.
Can Spirulina help control cholesterol levels?
Yes, Spirulina, rich in essential fatty acids, helps manage LDL (low-density lipoprotein or bad cholesterol) and HDL (high-density lipoprotein or good cholesterol) levels, promoting heart health.
What fatal diseases can Spirulina prevent?
Spirulina’s antioxidative properties contribute to avoiding chronic fatal diseases such as cancer, diabetes, stroke, and heart attacks by maintaining DNA integrity.
Is Spirulina beneficial for allergies?
Yes, Spirulina’s anti-inflammatory properties, mainly due to GLA, make it a reliable remedy for allergies and allergic reactions when consumed regularly.
How should one incorporate Spirulina into one’s diet?
Spirulina can be consumed as a dietary supplement in capsules or powder. It can also be added to smoothies or juices or mixed with water for easy consumption.
Is it safe to consume Spirulina daily?
While Spirulina is generally safe for most people, consulting with a healthcare professional before regular consumption is advisable, especially for those with underlying health conditions.
Are there any side effects of Spirulina?
Common side effects may include digestive issues, allergic reactions, or medication interactions. It is crucial to adhere to recommended doses and seek medical advice if any adverse effects occur.
