Spirulina has been known for years as a superfood, and for a very good reason. It is full of highly effective nutrients which may offer our bodies many health benefits. Spirulina is a good source of vitamin B12, a nutrient needed (especially for vegetarians) for healthy red blood cells.  Other nutrients found in spirulina include; iron, a high level of protein, essential amino acids, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin. Spirulina is naturally digested and it may aid in protecting the immune system and many other health benefits we'll explore now.

Boosting Your Energy

Some studies show that spirulina may help boost your energy, improve endurance, and also increase muscle strength and exercise performance.  

Helping Your Body Detoxify

Spirulina is rich in chlorophyll. Chlorophyll may assist the body in detoxing foreign substances such as anaerobic bacteria, yeast and fungus.  Chlorophyll helps remove unwanted residues and helps activate enzymes.

Lowering Cholesterol

Studies show that LDL (bad cholesterol) levels may be decreased by adding spirulina to their diet.  In the same study, it was noted that serum triglycerides and total cholesterol were also reduced.  Lower levels of this bad cholesterol are considered to be healthier for our heart, cardiovascular system and optimal wellbeing.  

Lowering Blood Sugar Levels

Enjoying spirulina between meals may help stabilise blood sugar levels because of its high protein content.  In a study of patients with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of spirulina helped these patients reduce their blood sugar levels.

Supporting Weight Loss

As a low-calorie, protein-rich superfood it seems to promote weight loss. It takes our bodies more energy to metabolise protein, which helps maintain lean tissue and contribute to fat burning. It may also help curb appetite. Spirulina contains an amino acid called phenylalanine, which is considered to stimulate the secretion of cholecystokinin. Cholecystokinin is a peptide hormone responsible for stimulating the digestion of fat and protein. Spirulina supplies nutrients beneficial for when people are fasting.

Eliminating Candida

Spirulina may be an effective antimicrobial agent.  This green micro-alga has been shown to promote the growth of healthy bacterial flora in the intestines.  A gut full of healthy bacteria helps with the elimination of candida. Healthy gut bacteria - according to the Harvard Medical School may improve many health conditions including heart disease and arthritis.

Lowering Inflammation

It is believed that spirulina is packed with essential fatty acids.  Essential fatty acids are healthy fats which may be beneficial for lowering inflammation.  High levels of inflammation have been found to be associated with many health conditions we see in our society today.

Powerful Protein Source

Some experts believe spirulina to be one of the most nutrient-dense food on the planet. 1 cup of spirulina gives you 64.4g of protein, which is 129% of %DV (Daily Value). It is not recommended to eat a cup a day, but a few daily teaspoons all adds up. Some find the taste of spirulina challenging to enjoy, in which case, you can buy it tablets.  If however, you are able to stomach the taste, simply stir a heaped teaspoon into some clean filtered water, mix and drink. Try adding a tablespoon of spirulina powder into your smoothies.  Also try adding it to your healthy bliss balls, acai breakfast bowls and energy bars.

Glowing Skin

Glowing skin is one of the many benefits some report noticing after taking a heaped teaspoon of spirulina mixed with water every day.

Check with your healthcare provider to confirm whether spirulina is suitable for your body’s specific needs. If you have an allergy to seafood or suffer from hypothyroidism, it is best to avoid spirulina.