Spirulina has become very popular recently. It was considered a powerful green powder of the sea.
Nowadays, we are all aware of the countless health benefits that Spirulina offers. In other words, it is loaded with a high amount of proteins necessary for vegetarians and vegans.

In addition, spirulina powder is rich in minerals, vitamins, antioxidants and enzymes. Moreover, it is five times more nutritious than fresh fruits and vegetables.

WHAT MAKES SPIRULINA POWDER SO BENEFICIAL?

Health experts explain that spirulina represents green-blue algae or cyanobacteria. Its pigments, such as chlorophyll-a and beta-carotene, are healthy and bioavailable. The algae produce oxygen through the process of photosynthesis.

HEALTH BENEFITS OF SPIRULINA

Spirulina powder is one of the most nutrient-dense foods. Namely, spirulina is rich in protein and it is considered to be a great alternative to the sources of meat proteins. According to the health nutritionists, it is one of the few sources of vitamin B12, too.

In addition, spirulina is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, ALA, GLA (Gamma Linoleic Acid), DHA (brain component) and omega-6 fatty acids.

A gram of spirulina contains:

  • 280 percent more antioxidants than blueberries
  • 3.100 percent more vitamin A (beta-carotene) than carrots
  • 5.500 percent more iron than spinach
  • Thiamine (vitamin A)
  • Riboflavin (vitamin B2)
  • Nicotinamine (vitamin B3)
  • Pyridoxine (vitamin B6)
  • Folic acid (vitamin B9)
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin D
  • Vitamin E
  • Vitamin K
  • Potassium
  • Calcium
  • Copper
  • Chromium
  • Manganese
  • Magnesium
  • Phosphorus
  • Zinc
  • Selenium
  • Sodium
  • Dietary fiber
  • Pantothenic acid
  • Folate

Spirulina offers significant health benefits for people who consume it in a regular basis. Namely, other healing benefits of spirulina are:

  • Improves the immune system
  • Soothes allergies and improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis
  • Regulates high levels of blood pressure
  • Regulates cholesterol levels
  • Prevents liver failure caused by chemo drugs
  • Improves insulin resistance
  • Promotes the formation of good bacteria in the intestines
  • Lowers the risk of age-related diseases, including macular degeneration and cataracts
  • Helps prevent cancer, especially oral cancer
  • Improves the antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory potential
  • Helps treat herpes, HIV, AIDS and hepatitis
  • Detoxes heavy metals, especially arsenic
  • Gets rid of Candida
  • Reduces the risk of stroke
  • Boosts energy levels and improve energy performance
  • Boosts weight loss
  • Helps prevent sinus issues
  • Boosts memory and helps prevent brain disorders
  • Helps treat anemia
  • Protects and improves bone health
  • Boost up wound healing
  • Reduces inflammation and arthritis pain
  • Fights radiation sickness
  • Prevents free radical damage
  • Helps fight oxidative stress in the body

HOW TO USE SPIRULINA?

You can add ΒΌ – 1 teaspoon of spirulina powder to your smoothies or swallow 1 pill.

Here is a recipe that you can also try:

Add 1 tablespoon of spirulina powder to 1 bag of popcorn and toss it.
For better flavor, you can also add garlic powder. Toss it again.
Make sure you do not pick up every algae from the pond, as there are non-edible algae, which may have side effects on your overall health.

WHERE CAN WE FIND SPIRULINA?
It can be found nearly everywhere, including bare rocks, damp soil, moist rocks, fresh water and oceans. Spirulina is mainly picked up from the Hawaiian and the South American shores or other exotic locations from all over the world. Therefore, it is sold in the forms of powder, flakes or capsules. It may come either pure or combined with other ingredients.

POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS OF SPIRULINA
When you buy spirulina, make sure you look for a high-quality, organic spirulina, which is free from contamination.
On the other hand, using contaminated spirulina powder can lead to:

  • Stomach pain
  • Nausea
  • Liver damage
  • Weakness
  • Vomiting
  • Thirst
  • Increased heart rate
  • Shock
  • Death

In addition, children and pregnant women should not consume algae. Before using it, make sure you consult with a health care professional.

Sources:
https://draxe.com/spirulina-benefits/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina