What is spirulina, and should you try it?
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...
What is spirulina and what are its health benefits?
Jan 13, 2021 · As Harvard Medical School explains in a health blog entry, spirulina is a blue-green algae known as cyanobacteria. Generally, it's grown in manmade and natural lakes alike, and since it can survive conditions that other water-dwelling organisms would not be able to thrive in, it's relatively easy to cultivate in a number of climates worldwide.
Is spirulina good or bad?
Jul 07, 2021 · Spirulina is used by some people to help with allergies and asthma. Others believe it will help fight infections. Some people believe it will help with cancer. Spirulina is used by some people to help with diabetes or high cholesterol levels. Others may use it to help with mouth sores. It may also be used to help with weight loss.
What is spirulina and where does it come from?
Spirulina is a freshwater algae (or seaweed) that grows naturally in tropical and sub-tropical lakes. Historically used as a food by native South American people, it fell into disuse for many centuries until it was recognised as a non-animal protein source in the 1970s. It’s dried and made into cakes for use in soups and stews around the shores of Lake Chad, West Africa.
What does spirulina do for the body?
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 are the side effects of spirulina?
Some minor side effects of spirulina may include nausea, insomnia, and headaches. Still, this supplement is widely considered safe, and most people experience no side effects (2). Spirulina may be contaminated with harmful compounds, thin your blood, and worsen autoimmune conditions.
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 is spirulina made of?
Spirulina is a dietary supplement made from blue-green algae or cyanobacteria, known as Arthrospira platensis. Spirulina is rich in proteins, vitamins, and minerals. The cyanobacteria, through the process of photosynthesis, converts sunlight into nearly all essential nutrients.
Can spirulina cause weight gain?
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.
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?
Does spirulina thicken 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.
Can spirulina cause liver damage?
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 does spirulina taste like?
Spirulina tastes like the sea and has a green, earthy, and sometimes sulfuric or fishy edge. Spirulina has this odd taste and smell is because it grows exclusively in the water environment. Thus, it's grown in freshwater lakes, rivers, and ponds.
Will spirulina make me poop?
And while it's difficult to consume sufficient dietary forms of magnesium to achieve a laxative effect, increasing your intake will certainly help. The best sources of magnesium include dark leafy green veggies like spinach and micro-algae superfoods like chlorella and spirulina.
Is spirulina a plant or animal?
Spirulina is an organism that grows in salt and freshwater. It's a cyanobacterium, which is part of a family of single-celled microbes, also called blue-green algae and as cyanobacteria, spirulina is technically neither plant nor animal.
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.
Where is spirulina made?
Most commercial spirulina is today produced by the U.S., Europe, and South America. Spirulina tablets and powder in bowls.
Where can I buy spirulina?
Spirulina can be found in specialty health stores or in the health aisles of some grocery stores. It can also be bought through online vendors such as Amazon, although customers should be sure to research the company selling the algae and read reviews before purchasing spirulina.
What is spirulina algae?
What Is Spirulina? The algae has been consumed for centuries and gained a "superfood" health halo in recent years — here's everything you need to know about it. By Tadhg Hylier Stevens.
Is a smoothie good for you?
It's also quite a rich source of beta-carotene, various minerals and gamma linolenic acid, a fatty acid essential to health. All-in-all, it's not a terrible choice for those hoping to up the nutritional benefits of their food. Related: Power-Packed Smoothie.
Is spirulina a superfood?
However, as with most so-called "superfoods," claims about spirulina's merits should be swallowed with a bit of skepticism. As Harvard's blog points out, spirulina advocates have claimed the substance capable of treating a plethora of maladies, including diabetes, hepatitis and high cholesterol.
Can you add spirulina powder to smoothies?
Generally, spirulina is sold in a powder form, so it's easiest to add to smoothies , drinks, and other liquid-heavy foods. Some enthusiasts prefer adding a couple of tablespoons to foods that are already naturally green, like guacamole or spinach dip, for an extra nutritional punch.
Is spirulina good for vegans?
One of the reasons that spirulina has been sought after for centuries is because it boasts a surprisingly dense list of nutrients. It's one of the best non-animal based sources of protein, making it a good nutritional boost for vegans and others who rely on plant-based foods. It's also quite a rich source of beta-carotene, various minerals and gamma linolenic acid, a fatty acid essential to health. All-in-all, it's not a terrible choice for those hoping to up the nutritional benefits of their food.
What is spirulina algae?
Summary Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows in both salt and fresh water. It may be one of the most nutrient-dense foods on earth. 2. Powerful Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties. Oxidative damage can harm your DNA and cells.
How many calories are in spirulina?
In addition, the same amount holds only 20 calories and 1.7 grams of digestible carbs. Gram for gram, spirulina may be the single most nutritious food on the planet.
What is the name of the organism that grows in both fresh and salt water?
Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and salt water. It is a type of cyanobacteria, which is a family of single-celled microbes that are often referred to as blue-green algae. Just like plants, cyanobacteria can produce energy from sunlight via a process called photosynthesis.
How much spirulina is in a tablespoon?
Gram for gram, spirulina may be the single most nutritious food on the planet. A tablespoon (7 grams) of spirulina provides a small amount of fat — around 1 gram — including both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in an approximately 1.5–1.0 ratio.
Does spirulina cause cancer?
Oxidative damage can harm your DNA and cells. This damage can drive chronic inflammation, which contributes to cancer and other diseases ( 5 ). Spirulina is a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can protect against oxidative damage. Its main active component is called phycocyanin.
What is the best treatment for allergic rhinitis?
It is triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal hair or even wheat dust. Spirulina is a popular alternative treatment for symptoms of allergic rhinitis, and there is evidence that it can be effective ( 24. Trusted Source.
Does spirulina cause heart disease?
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.
What is spirulina used for?
Spirulina is used by some people to help with allergies and asthma. Others believe it will help fight infections. Some people believe it will help with cancer. Spirulina is used by some people to help with diabetes or high cholesterol levels. Others may use it to help with mouth sores.
What drugs thin blood?
Take extra care if you are taking drugs to thin your blood. These are drugs like warfarin (Coumadin), heparin, and other anticoagulants. Take extra care and check with your doctor if you have: Autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and pemphigus vulgaris.
What are the symptoms of a syringe?
When do I need to call the doctor? 1 Signs of a very bad reaction. These include wheezing; tightness in the chest; fever; itching; bad cough; blue skin color; seizures; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. Go to the ER right away. 2 Signs of liver problems. These include upset stomach or throwing up, belly pain, feeling tired, dark urine, yellow skin or eyes, not hungry. 3 Very bad throwing up 4 Very bad belly pain 5 Very bad loose stools
What is spirulina?
Spirulina is a freshwater algae (or seaweed) that grows naturally in tropical and sub-tropical lakes. Historically used as a food by native South American people, it fell into disuse for many centuries until it was recognised as a non-animal protein source in the 1970s.
How to use spirulina
Spirulina can be used in stocks and soups, but is usually added to juices and smoothies. Some find the taste and colour off-putting, but you can get around this by taking capsules.
Choose the best spirulina
There does not appear to be much difference nutritionally between any of the forms available, so make a choice according to how you want to use it or on price. There are variations in taste, so you may want to sample these to discover which you prefer.
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.
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.
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.
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 cholesterol?
Studies suggest that spirulina supplements can reduce total cholesterol. Taking spirulina extract may help to lower cholesterol levels. Cholesterol is an unhealthful fat in a person’s blood that medical experts link to heart disease. A 2016 systematic review and meta-analysis.
What is the highest protein in spirulina?
Protein. Research suggests that spirulina has the highest amount of protein over any other natural food source including meat, fish, dairy, grains and nuts. Every 100 g of spirulina may have anywhere between 55-70% protein, depending on when it is harvested.
How do cyanobacteria produce energy?
They are similar to plants—although less complex—in that cyanobacteria produce energy via photosynthesis using sunlight, chlorophyll (green pigment) and phycobilin (blue pigment). Researchers initially classified spirulina as a plant, but then declared it part of the bacteria kingdom (x).
Is spirulina safe for kids?
Like any supplement, it may cause side effects including (x): Despite its potential benefits of spirulina, medical professionals do not recommend the supplement for children.
Is spirulina powder healthy?
Spirulina powder is reportedly one of the most nutritious supplements available. NASA identifies and accepts it as a highly viable food source. Studies acknowledge its nutritional value, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory actions and properties that naturally support cardiovascular health (x). Be sure to see a doctor for diagnoses, accurate medical ...
How does oxidative stress affect the body?
Oxidative stress develops in the body as a result of an imbalance between free radicals—unstable molecules—and the antioxidants that neutralize them. This imbalance creates oxidative stress, which can change the structure of proteins and genes and trigger disease or chronic inflammation.
Is spirulina a dietary supplement?
However, there is no medical evidence proving that spirulina as a dietary supplement can completely treat any disease or health condition. Make sure to see a doctor for approval, diagnoses and accurate medical information before taking any supplements (x).
Is spirulina a micronutrient?
Micronutrients. According to Dr. Harris, spirulina is also “rich in nutrients” and naturally contains a high number of micronutrients that are crucial to energy metabolism, immunity, organ function, cellular growth and cellular differentiation (x).
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…