Contaminated or low-quality Spirulina can lead to a variety of side effects, including:
- Nausea.
- Stomach cramps.
- Thirst.
- Shock.
- Weakness.
- Kidney stones.
- Insomnia.
- Liver damage.
- Rapid heartbeat.
- Headaches.
Full Answer
What are the benefits and side effects of spirulina?
Side Effects of Spirulina: Everything You Need to Know
- Side Effects of Spirulina. Spirulina can cause certain side effects if its purchased from a non-reputable company and has become contaminated.
- Benefits of Spirulina. ...
- Even More Potential Applications for Spirulina. ...
- A Final Word From Energetic Lifestyle. ...
Who should not take spirulina?
Spirulina is generally safe to use but may cause allergy, headaches, insomnia, muscle pain, and sweating in some. Because of its possible effect on the immune system, spirulina should be avoided in people with autoimmune diseases or on immunosuppressive therapies. Pregnant and nursing people or those with phenylketonuria should also avoid ...
How to take Spirulina for better effects?
Suggestions include (1):
- A dose of 1-8 g for cholesterol, may give you results.
- Develop your muscles, doses of 2-7.5 g per day have been successfully used
- For blood sugar control, very mild effects have been noticed with as little as 2 g per day
- Blood pressure reductions may be seen with doses of 3.5-4.5 g per day
What to expect from spirulina side effects?
Where you got the shot:
- redness
- swelling
- pain
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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.
Is spirulina good for heart failure?
Many risk factors are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. As it turns out, spirulina positively impacts many of these factors. For example, it can lower total cholesterol, “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising “good” HDL cholesterol.
Can you take spirulina if you have high blood pressure?
Spirulina is described as one of the superfoods that contain a specific protein, which is found to relax arteries in animals, say researchers. Scientifically known as arthrospira platensis, spirulina is a type of bacteria that may help regulate blood pressure and may help manage hypertension.
What happens when you take spirulina everyday?
1:042:54Like blueberries and spinach which are well known to cause neuroprotective effects because of theirMoreLike blueberries and spinach which are well known to cause neuroprotective effects because of their ability to lower inflammation. And eliminate free radicals. Research has also shown it doesn't only
Who should avoid 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.
Does spirulina clear arteries?
Spirulina It's also a source of protein that contains all of the essential amino acids needed by the body to maintain optimum health. It can help relax artery walls and stabilize blood pressure while balancing your blood fat levels.
Is spirulina good for high cholesterol?
Lowering cholesterol The authors found evidence that spirulina can significantly reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein (LDL), “bad” cholesterol while increasing high-density lipoprotein (HDL), “good” cholesterol.
Can spirulina make you feel dizzy?
Spirulina is generally considered safe; side effects are usually mild and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, headache, dizziness, and fatigue.
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.
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?
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.
What happens when you have too much iodine in your blood?
The build-up of excessive nutrients, along with iodine, in the blood leads to fluid retention (edema) in your limbs, imbalance in calcium, phosphate, and iodine absorption, and sudden weight gain or loss, lethargy, and cardiovascular diseases. 7. Digestive Discomfort And Nausea. Shutterstock.
Is spirulina a single cell supplement?
If so, you’d be shocked to learn about the other side of one such popular single cell supplement – spirulina. Scroll down to find out how spirulina, the superfood, is harmful to you, how it introduces toxins in a healthy body, and more fatal side effects.
Does spirulina cause edema?
Triggers Edema And Body Weight Fluctuation. Spirulina is packed with vitamins, proteins, and minerals. People with compromised renal function would be unable to expel the unnecessary components from their bloodstream. One of the most abundant minerals found in spirulina is iodine.
Does spirulina interfere with immunosuppressants?
Interferes With Drug Action. Spirulina is an irritant to your immune system. It can interfere with drugs, especially immunosuppressants. A person on immunosuppressant medication must not consume spirulina. Else, it will diminish the effect of the medication, resulting in serious complications. 4.
Can you take spirulina powder in a smoothie?
People consume spirulina orally in the form of powder, flakes, or tablets for several health benefits. Spirulina powder and flakes are usually added to fruit juices and smoothies. It can have an adverse impact on your health if you do not take it in controlled doses. Read on to find out how.
Is spirulina a microalgae?
Spirulina is free-floating filamentous microalgae growing in alkaline water bodies. Due to its high nutritional value, spirulina has been consumed as food for centuries in Central Africa. It is now widely used as a nutraceutical food supplement worldwide. People consume spirulina orally in the form of powder, flakes, ...
Does spirulina affect thyroid?
While on the one hand, it is good to take in iodine via spirulina, on the other hand, it could affect your thyroid and parathyroid glands. The effects are more pronounced in people with hyperparathyroidism.
Can spirulina cause nausea?
If you take spirulina, it could cause certain side effects, including nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, thirst, weakness, rapid heartbeat, liver damage or shock. This supplement is generally considered safe even when taken in high amounts, however. The side effects are most likely if your spirulina is contaminated, so be sure to purchase this product from a reputable source that has tested it for contaminants.
Is spirulina algae safe?
It may not be safe for everyone, so check with your doctor before adding it to your daily routine.
Is spirulina safe for pregnant women?
Because of the risk for contamination, spirulina isn't recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. People with phenylketonuria shouldn't take this supplement because it provides all of the amino acids, including phenylalanine, which is dangerous for people with this condition. Those with autoimmune diseases should also avoid spirulina supplements, as they may stimulate the immune system and increase your symptoms.
Can spirulina be taken with blood thinners?
Although no medication interactions are well-documented, spirulina may interact with medications that suppress your immune system and with blood thinners. If you are on these medications, you'll want to either avoid spirulina entirely or take it under the supervision of your doctor.
Can spirulina be contaminated?
Spirulina can also be contaminated with substances called anatoxin and microcystin, which can be toxic. For this reason, some researchers recommend limiting spirulina consumption to no more than 50 grams per day.
How many grams of protein are in a spoonful of spirulina?
A spoonful of Spirulina contains approximately 4 to 5 grams of Proteins. Iron in spirulina: Spirulina is a favorite among vegans and vegetarians because it provides high amounts of iron. And unlike the iron derived from meat, it is easier to digest the iron that comes from Spirulina.
What is spirulina algae?
What Is Spirulina? Spirulina is a biomass of blue-green algae (cyanobacteria) that can be consumed by both humans and animals. There are two species of Spirulina, namely Arthrospira platensis and A. maxima. Arthospira is cultivated worldwide and used as a whole food or dietary supplement.
Is spirulina a good antioxidant?
Powerful Antioxidant Qualities: Spirulina is a fantastic source of antioxidants. It can protect you against oxidative damage. Oxidative damage can harm your DNA and even lead to Cancer. The main active component in Spirulina, Phycocyanin, has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Does spirulina cause stomach cramps?
Even though Spirulina is beneficial for a lot of people, as with everything else, it too has a few side effects. Contaminated or low-quality Spirulina can lead to a variety of side effects, including: Nausea. Stomach cramps. Thirst.
Does spirulina increase blood count?
A study showed that consumption of Spirulina led to an increase in the red blood cells count and also improved the immunity of the patients. Though more research needs to be done on this front.
Does spirulina lower blood pressure?
High blood pressure is the reason behind many diseases, including heart strokes, attacks, and kidney illness. It is believed that high doses of Spirulina lead to a decrease in blood pressure. Spirulina produces nitric oxide, which helps dilate and relax the blood vessels, thereby decreasing blood pressure. 7.
Is spirulina a protein?
Spirulina contains high amounts of: Protein in spirulina: Spirulina is considered to be a complete source of Protein, i .e. it contains all the proteins that our body needs but is unable to produce by itself. The protein in Spirulina has a net protein utilization rate of 50% to 60%.
What is chlorella and spirulina?
In the quest for supplements to boost your health, you may encounter chlorella and spirulina, two types of blue-green algae. You may also encounter a number of claims about these supplements' health benefits, from spirulina for heavy metal detox to chlorella for chronic conditions like hypertension. Video of the Day.
What are the health effects of phosphorus?
When consumed in excess, these compounds can present health concerns: High intake of protein, chlorophyll and iron may cause gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, nausea or cramps. Excess phosphorus can adversely affect the kidneys. In high concentrations, manganese may contribute to neurotoxicity.
Is chlorella harmful to skin?
Regardless of whether chlorella or spirulina benefits skin, improves chronic conditions or aids overall health, it's important to understand the possible risks. Certain forms of blue-green algae may be contaminated with microcystins and anatoxins, both highly toxic substances, says Winchester Hospital.
Can spirulina affect blood thinners?
URMC notes that spirulina may impact the effectiveness of blood thinners.
Is chlorella a good supplement?
At best, chlorella and spirulina may offer certain health benefits, though those benefits are generally not scientifically proven, according to Harvard Health Publishing. Advertisement. At worst, there can be adverse results of taking chlorella and spirulina. Side effects may be more pronounced if these supplements are taken in excess, ...
Does spirulina help with hair?
Study participants largely reported that spirulina benefits skin and that chlorella and spirulina intake had improved their hair and skin quality. Although these benefits are not directly evidenced, say the authors, the claim is nonetheless plausible, given the nutritional content of these supplements.
Does spirulina help the immune system?
The same is true of claims that spirulina can boost the immune system and improve kidney and liver function. When taken at the recommended dosage, spirulina side effects are few, says Harvard Health Publishing.
What are the side effects of spirulina?
These are some of the most common side effects, if spirulina does not suit us well: 1 Thirst and constipation 2 Fever 3 Dizziness 4 Stomach ache 5 Itchy or rash on the skin 6 Headaches 7 Iodine can affect people with hyper or hypothyroidism.
Can you misuse spirulina?
Otherwise, it is possible that you may misuse this algae, giving rise to a series of counterproductive effects to what you are looking for. Although spirulina is a natural product, this does not mean that it does not have side effects and that its excessive consumption cannot lead to different complications.
Is spirulina a superfood?
In most cases, this seaweed is sold as a “superfood” and a supplement that is the most nutritious in the world. However, spirulina is still an algae that if you want to ingest constantly you must consult with our family doctor or a specialist. Otherwise, it is possible that you may misuse this algae, giving rise to a series ...
Does spirulina cause constipation?
For this reason, taking it under various circumstances can lead to different side effects that can range from constipation to anxiety. These are some of the most common side effects, if spirulina does not suit us well: Thirst and constipation. Fever. Dizziness.
Is spirulina a medicine?
Spirulina has great properties that range from its antioxidant, antiviral and anti-inflammatory factors, to its benefits to lower cholesterol and triglycerides. However, you must mark by fire that spirulina is not a medicine, so you must always take it in the appropriate doses.
Can you take spirulina with water?
It does not matter if it is in powder, capsules or tablets, spirulina can be used as a complement to a balanced diet. It can be taken 15 minutes before each meal with two glasses of water to promote weight loss. In most cases, this seaweed is sold as a “superfood” and a supplement that is the most nutritious in the world.
Can you eat spirulina while exercising?
If you are consuming spirulina to lose weight or to complement our physical exercise, you must be very attentive to the signals that our body sends us. In the case of noticing something strange or unusual, experts recommend not continuing to consume it.
What is a spirulina plant?
Spirulina is a type of blue-green microalgae that is able to grow in both fresh and salt water and is consumed by humans and other animals. There are two species of the spirulina plant, including Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima.
How much spirulina should I take daily?
A common question when first trying out this incredible ingredient is: how much spirulina should I take daily? Although there’s no standard spirulina dosage, most studies have found a beneficial effect when consuming 1–8 grams per day. For reference, one tablespoon of blue spirulina is about 7 grams.
What is the difference between chlorella and spirulina?
Spirulina grows best in low-alkaline conditions — particularly, fresh water lakes, ponds and rivers. It also requires an abundance of sunshine and moderate temperatures. Chlorella, on the other hand, grows in fresh water typically occupied by other organisms, which makes it more challenging to harvest. 3.
How long do rabbits need spirulina?
A recent animal study published in The Journal of Nutritional Science and Vitaminology took rabbits, fed them a high-cholesterol diet (HCD) containing 0.5 percent cholesterol for four weeks, and then fed them a HCD with 1 percent or 5 percent spirulina for an additional eight weeks.
What is the shape of a spirulina?
Shape. First of all, spirulina is a spiral-shaped, multi-celled plant with no true nucleus. It’s blue-green in hue and can grow up to 100 times the size of chlorella. Comparably, chlorella is a spherical-shaped single-celled microorganism with a nucleus and is solid green. 2. How It’s Grown.
Which is healthier, chlorella or spirulina?
Finally, although both are considered superfoods, spirulina and chlorella differ in their nutritional content. Arguably the healthier of the two, spirulina contains more essential amino acids, iron, protein, B vitamins, and vitamins C, D and E.
Where is spirulina grown?
Grown around the world from Mexico to Africa to even Hawaii, spirulina is renowned for its intense flavor and even more powerful nutrition profile.
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.
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 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.
Is spirulina a plant based protein?
Spirulina is a potent source of nutrients. It contains a powerful plant-based protein called phycocyanin. Research shows this may have antioxidant, pain-relief, anti-inflammatory, and brain-protective properties. This antioxidant and other nutrients in spirulina are linked with several health benefits:
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.
Can you take spirulina with diabetes?
Medication Interactions. Spirulina’s health benefits may interact with or counter certain medications' effects, including those used to treat diabetes, immunosuppressants, and blood thinners. B12 deficiency.
Side Effects
- If you take spirulina, it could cause certain side effects, including nausea, stomach pain, vomiting, thirst, weakness, rapid heartbeat, liver damage or shock. This supplement is generally considered safe even when taken in high amounts, however. The side effects are most likely if your spirulina is contaminated, so be sure to purchase this product...
Potential Medication Interactions
- Although no medication interactions are well-documented, spirulina may interact with medications that suppress your immune system and with blood thinners. If you are on these medications, you'll want to either avoid spirulina entirely or take it under the supervision of your doctor.
Risk of Contamination
- Purchase spirulina grown in a laboratory, which includes most types of spirulina sold in the United States, instead of spirulina harvested from outdoor sources. When spirulina is grown in waters contaminated with heavy metals, including lead or mercury, it will become contaminated with these metals. Spirulina can also be contaminated with substances called anatoxin and microcys…
Precautions and Contraindications
- Because of the risk for contamination, spirulina isn't recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. People with phenylketonuria shouldn't take this supplement because it provides all of the amino acids, including phenylalanine, which is dangerous for people with this condition. Those with autoimmune diseases should also avoid spirulina supplements, as they may stimulate the i…