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Potential Health Benefits of Spirulina Spirulina is a potent source of nutrients. It contains a powerful plant-based protein called phycocyanin. Research shows this may have antioxidant,...
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Dec 10, 2021 · When it comes to exercise and fitness benefits, spirulina can help enhance muscle strength, endurance and performance. In one study, men who took a 6-gram spirulina supplement every day for four...
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Feb 03, 2020 · Spirulina offers many health benefits which include lowering cholesterol levels, enhancing immunity, increasing red blood cell count, anti-inflammatory properties, protecting the liver, reducing the toxicity in the kidneys, controlling bronchial asthma, and enhancing the supply of antioxidants.
How does spirulina affect your health?
Jul 27, 2021 · Other spirulina benefits include: It’s packed with easily absorbed nutrients that help give the body an energy boost. This has made the supplement very popular with folks living with chronic fatigue — as well as anyone experiencing tiredness related to anemia or low levels of B vitamins, such as vitamin B6.
Who should not take spirulina?
Spirulina is a superfood with unparalleled health benefits. Its benefits are numerous: it boosts vitality and the immune system, among many other things. These health benefits have earned it international popularity. Here are the reasons why you should include it in your diet. Health Benefits of Spirulina
How to take Spirulina for better effects?
Oct 19, 2010 · Spirulinaincreases healthy lactobacillus in the intestine, enabling the production of Vitamin B6 that also helps in energy release. Despite this promotion, the only available placebo-controlled randomized trial showed that the scores of fatigue were not significantly different between spirulinaand placebo.
Is spirulina good or bad?
What is spirulina good for?
Spirulina is rich in a range of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, like vitamins E, C, and B6. Research finds that spirulina also boosts the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight viruses and bacteria in your body.
Is it good to take spirulina everyday?
Up to 8 grams of spirulina per day is safe, and many people add it to their shakes or smoothies because it comes in powder form.
What are the dangers of spirulina?
But Spirulina may become contaminated with toxic metals, harmful bacteria and microcystins — toxins produced from some algae —if it is grown in unsafe conditions. Contaminated Spirulina can cause liver damage, nausea, vomiting, thirst, weakness, rapid heartbeat, shock and even death.
Can spirulina make you put on weight?
Spirulina Calories and Nutrition It takes an extra 3,500 calories over and above your daily needs to gain a pound. A tablespoon of dried spirulina, which is how you're most likely to find it sold, contains only 20 calories, so it would take quite a bit of spirulina to cause weight gain.
Who should not take spirulina?
You should avoid spirulina if you take blood thinners or have an autoimmune condition, bleeding disorder, allergies, or PKU. If you're unsure whether this supplement is right for you, consult your doctor.
How long does it take for spirulina to start working?
about 1-3 weeksIt takes about 1-3 weeks for you to notice a change in energy levels. The results differ from person to person and obviously depend on your condition. Tip; drink plenty of water every day. Most people around normally ask, where can spirulina be found?
Is spirulina hard on the kidneys?
These researchers, however, go on to suggest that it is not prudent to eat more than 50 g of spirulina daily. The reason they give is that the plant contains a high concentration of nucleic acids, substances related to DNA. When these are metabolized, they create uric acid, which could cause gout or kidney stones.
Is spirulina hard on the liver?
Spirulina has been implicated in isolated case reports in causing clinically apparent liver injury, but the role of spirulina as opposed to other herbal components or contaminants has not been shown. Liver injury due to spirulina must be very rare if it occurs at all.
What is the best time to take spirulina?
When should I take spirulina? Generally, it doesn't matter how and when you take spirulina, the supplement will still be effective. However, some specialists recommend taking it at least four hours before going to bed.
Does spirulina help with belly fat?
The currently literature supports the benefits of spirulina for reducing body fat, waist circumference, body mass index and appetite and shows that spirulina has significant benefits for improving blood lipids.
Is spirulina good for hair?
Spirulina is being widely used for promoting hair growth and to combat hair problems like thinning hair and baldness. Spirulina contains amino acids, essential fatty acids, vitamin A and beta-carotene, all of which are great for hair.
Is spirulina good for skin?
Spirulina can boost the overall health and radiant appearance of your skin, as well as preventing acne build up and swelling. Rich in nutrients, vitamins and both fatty and amino acids, Spirulina decreases inflammation, tones the skin and encourages cell turnover to promote a more youthful-looking complexion[1].
What is spirulina good for?
Spirulina is rich in a range of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining a healthy immune system , like vitamins E, C, and B6. Research finds that spirulina also boosts the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight viruses and bacteria in your body.
What is the taste of spirulina?
Spirulina has a bitter taste, so people often mix it with yogurts, juices, and smoothies to improve its flavor. Spirulina is commonly available as a supplement at health food stores.
What is the oldest organism on Earth?
Spirulina is a blue-green algae, and is believed to be one of the oldest life forms on Earth. First used by the Aztecs as an endurance-booster, spirulina is considered a superfood — an all-in-one source of nutrients including protein levels comparable to eggs. The Aztecs also used spirulina to treat various diseases, ...
Does spirulina cause cancer?
Chronic inflammation contributes to cancer and other diseases. Phycocyanin — the a plant pigment that gives spirulina its blue-green color — has been found to not only reduce inflammation in the body, but also block tumor growth and kill cancer cells.
Does spirulina help with cholesterol?
Heart Health. Research has found that the protein in spirulina can reduce the body’s absorption of cholesterol, lowering cholesterol levels. This helps keep your arteries clear, reducing strain on your heart that can lead to heart disease and stroke -causing blo od clots . Its protein also reduces triglyceride levels.
Does spirulina help with triglycerides?
These are fats in your blood that can contribute to the hardening of arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and pancreatitis . Spirulina increases nitric oxide production in your body as well, which helps your blood vessels relax.
Does spirulina help with vision loss?
Spirulina is concentrated with zeaxanthin, a plant pigment that may reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related vision loss . Its antibacterial properties may also help promote good oral health. One study found that spirulina-enhanced mouthwash reduced dental plaque and the risk of gingivitis in participants.
What is spirulina supplement?
Although there are a large number of blue-green algae species commonly referred to as "spirulina ," most spirulina supplements contain Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, Spirulina maxima, and/or Spirulina platensis . As with all supplements, it is important to examine the "Supplement Facts" label on any product that you buy.
What is spirulina algae?
What to Look For. Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that contains a number of nutrients, including B vitamins, beta-carotene, and vitamin E. Spirulina also contains antioxidants, minerals, chlorophyll, and phycocyanobilin and is commonly used as a source of vegan protein.
Does spirulina help with cholesterol?
Spirulina holds some promise for lipid disorders such as high cholesterol or high triglycerides, according to a study published in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism. For the study, healthy, older adults consumed spirulina or a placebo. After four months, spirulina was associated with significant reductions in cholesterol. 1
Does spirulina help with oral cancer?
Spirulina may offer some protection against oral cancer, according to one small study of tobacco chewers with precancerous oral lesions. For 12 months, study members took either a daily dose of spirulina or a placebo. By the study's end, the lesions cleared up in 20 of the 44 participants who had consumed spirulina (compared to three of the 43 participants who had been assigned to the placebo group). 6
Can spirulina cause headaches?
Although few adverse effects are associated with the use of spirulina, consuming spirulina may cause headaches, allergic reactions, muscle pain, sweating, and insomnia in some cases. People with allergies to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid spirulina.
Who is Meredith Bull?
Her work is regularly featured in media such as First For Women, Woman's World, and Natural Health. Meredith Bull, ND, is a licensed naturopathic doctor with a private practice in Los Angeles, California.
Is spirulina good for you?
Health Benefits. Among proponents, spirulina has been used to support a number of health conditions, including fatigue , high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and viral infections. Purported spirulina benefits also include weight loss, increased energy, and stimulation of the immune system.
Why does my nose swell?
When a person has allergies to pollen, dust, or pets, the inside of their nose may swell. This reaction is called allergic rhinitis. There is some evidence that spirulina could help improve the symptoms of this condition.
How much sodium is in spirulina?
73 mg of sodium. 0.7 mg of vitamin C. It also contains thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamins B-6, A, and K. Taking spirulina, as part of a balanced diet, may help a person to stay well nourished. 2.
Where can I buy spirulina?
People can also take spirulina as a dietary supplement in tablet form. People can buy dried spirulina from health food stores or online stores. Spirulina tablets are also available in health food stores, drug stores, and online.
Is spirulina a superfood?
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that people can take as a dietary supplement. People consider spirulina a superfood due to its excellent nutritional content and health benefits. Spirulina has a high protein and vitamin content, which makes it an excellent dietary supplement for people on vegetarian or vegan diets.
Why is serotonin important?
Serotonin plays an important role in mental health. People with certain mental health conditions, such as depression and anxiety, may have reduced levels of serotonin. Taking tryptophan supplements to maintain healthful serotonin levels may play a role in supporting mental wellbeing.
How long does it take for spirulina to lower cholesterol?
Researchers found that taking 1 g of spirulina every day reduced participant’s total cholesterol after 3 months. 6. Reducing blood pressure. As discussed above, spirulina may lower cholesterol, and there is also evidence that it could help control a person’s blood pressure.
Does spirulina help the immune system?
Research suggests. Trusted Source. that spirulina has antioxidant and inflammation-fighting properties, as well as the ability to help regulate the immune system. This article discusses 11 potential health benefits people may get from adding spirulina to their diet. 1.
Does spirulina help with weight loss?
Spirulina is a rich source of proteins and diets which are high in proteins and nutrients like spirulina can help stimulate weight loss and reduce body fat. Protein requires more energy in order to metabolize and helps maintain the body’s lean tissue which also contributes to the way fat is burned.
Does spirulina help with blood pressure?
As well as reducing your cholesterol levels, spirulina can also help keep blood pressure under control. According to research done in Japan, pigment found in spirulina called phycocyanin has antihypertensive properties. (7)
Does spirulina help with cancer?
Whether or not spirulina can protect against cancer in humans is still very much untested however, it contains plenty of good antioxidants. A number of in vitro and animal studies have suggested that spirulina has the potential to boost immunity and increase the production of infection fighting proteins and antibodies. These actions may help the body ward off chronic illnesses like cancer and other infections.
What are the minerals in spirulina?
Minerals and trace elements found in it include 120 mg of calcium, 28 mg of iron, 195 mg of magnesium, 118 mg of phosphorus, 1363 mg of potassium, 1048 mg of sodium, and 2 mg of zinc. [6] The vitamins found within spirulina include thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, vitamin B6, C, A, E, and vitamin K.
How old is a spirulina?
Spirulina is believed to be a photosynthetic species that is about 3.5 billion years old. It is also speculated that such species were responsible for releasing oxygen into the atmosphere on the early Earth. [3]
What is the name of the algae with a perfect spiral shape?
Spirulina is blue-green algae with a perfect spiral shape. This spiral shape is the reason for the name Spirulina. It belongs to a cyanobacteria species and it is scientifically known as Arthrospira platensis. Other subspecies include Spirulina maxima and Spirulina geitleri.
Is spirulina good for you?
Spirulina offers many health benefits which include lowering cholesterol levels, enhancing immunity, increasing red blood cell count, anti- inflammatory properties, protecting the liver, reducing the toxicity in the kidneys, controlling bronchial asthma, and enhancing the supply of antioxidants . Spirulina is blue-green algae with ...
Is a saline solution a good source of protein?
It is widely regarded as one of the highest sources of protein. It contains around 18 out of the 22 amino acids that the human body needs. It is also a good source of vital micronutrients, such as beta-carotene in vitamin A, and minerals such as zinc, calcium, magnesium, iron, and phosphorus.
Does spirulina have cellulose?
Closer examination of spirulina revealed that the spiral-shaped, blue-green algae had thinner cell walls or cellulose compared to its plant cousins. Also, the cell wall is composed of mucopolysaccharides, which are complex sugars. Thus, even the cell wall in it can be digested, unlike the cellulose in plants.
Is spirulina a probiotic?
Thus, even the cell wall in it can be digested, unlike the cellulose in plants. It is also beneficial for probiotic bacteria, such as lactobacillus, which lives inside our digestive system. [7]
Getting to know spirulina, the protein-packed microalgae
It lives in fresh and marine waters and is called spirulina because it has a spiral or helical shape.
Aside from being a natural antihistamine: What else is spirulina good for?
Other spirulina benefits include: It’s packed with easily absorbed nutrients that help give the body an energy boost. This has made the supplement very popular with folks living with chronic fatigue — as well as anyone experiencing tiredness related to anemia or low levels of B vitamins, such as vitamin B6.
Health Benefits of Spirulina
Because of its unique nutritional characteristics, spirulina is considered a superfood. It is one of the best sources of vegetable protein, in addition to being an exceptional source of iron. Rich in essential minerals and vitamins, it is a food that is favored today to fight malnutrition in the world.
Spirulina side effects
Taking spirulina will give you more energy, but if you use too much of it it can also cause fatigue or headaches. It can also cause diarrhea or stomach problems. If you are sensitive to algae, it can also lead to allergic reactions, which can cause problems in the respiratory tract.
Summary
Spirulina also contains multiple vitamins, among which are vitamins A, E, D, K, B1, B2, B3, B6, B8, B9, and B12. Rich in iron, minerals, and essential trace elements, it offers nutritional benefits that are both complete and diversified.
What is spirulina algae?
Spirulinarefers to the dried biomass of Arthrospira platensis, an oxygenic photosynthetic bacterium found worldwide in fresh and marine waters. This alga represents an important staple diet in humans and has been used as a source of protein and vitamin supplement in humans without any significant side-effects.
What is a blue green algae?
This article has been cited byother articles in PMC. Abstract. Spirulinaor Arthrospirais a blue-green alga that became famous after it was successfully used by NASA as a dietary supplement for astronauts on space missions.
Does spirulina help with fatigue?
Spirulinaincreases healthy lactobacillus in the intestine, enabling the production of Vitamin B6 that also helps in energy release. Despite this promotion, the only available placebo-controlled randomized trial showed that the scores of fatigue were not significantly different between spirulinaand placebo.
Is spirulina a protein?
It is also rich in phenolic acids, tocopherols and γ-linolenic acid [1]. Spirulinalacks cellulose cell walls and therefore it can be easily digested [1].
Chemistry
Benefits
- Purported spirulina benefits also include weight loss, increased energy, and stimulation of the immune system.
Health
- To date, few human studies have explored spirulina's health benefits. However, preliminary studies suggest that spirulina holds promise for the following conditions:
Uses
- Spirulina holds some promise for lipid disorders such as high cholesterol or high triglycerides, according to a study published in the Annals of Nutrition and Metabolism. For the study, healthy, older adults consumed spirulina or a placebo. After four months, spirulina was associated with significant reductions in cholesterol. Spirulina holds some promise in the treatment of allergic rh…
Medical uses
- Spirulina may offer some protection against oral cancer, according to one small study of tobacco chewers with precancerous oral lesions. For 12 months, study members took either a daily dose of spirulina or a placebo. By the study's end, the lesions cleared up in 20 of the 44 participants who had consumed spirulina (compared to three of the 43 participants who had been assigned t…
Side effects
- Although few adverse effects are associated with the use of spirulina, consuming spirulina may cause headaches, allergic reactions, muscle pain, sweating, and insomnia in some cases. People with allergies to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid spirulina.
Contraindications
- If you have a thyroid condition, an autoimmune disorder, gout, kidney stones, phenylketonuria (PKU), or are pregnant or nursing, spirulina may not be appropriate for you. You should check with your healthcare provider before taking it.
Toxicity
- There is not enough scientific data to provide a recommended dose of spirulina. Various doses of spirulina have been used in research.
Example
- For example, in a study examining the benefits of spirulina for high cholesterol, a dose of 1-10 grams daily for four weeks to six months has been used. To learn about its effects on hypertension, a dose of spirulina blue-green algae of 4.5 grams daily for six weeks was used. And in a study with type 2 diabetes patients, a product containing one gram twice daily for two mont…
Treatment
- The appropriate dose for you may depend on factors including your age, gender, and medical history. Speak to your healthcare provider to get personalized advice.
Availability
- Spirulina is often sold in powder form, but it's also available in capsules, tablets, and juices. The powder is sometimes added to smoothies.
Species
- Although there are a large number of blue-green algae species commonly referred to as \"spirulina,\" most spirulina supplements contain Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, Spirulina maxima, and/or Spirulina platensis.
Preparation
- As with all supplements, it is important to examine the Supplement Facts label on any product that you buy. This label will contain vital information including the amount of active ingredients per serving, and other added ingredients that might be in the product.
Results
- Lastly, the organization suggests that you look for a product that contains a seal of approval from a third party organization that provides quality testing. These organizations include U.S. Pharmacopeia, ConsumerLab.com, and NSF International. A seal of approval from one of these organizations does not guarantee the product's safety or effectiveness but it does provide assur…