28 Sep Spirulina – Nature’s Super Protein!
Spirulina – Nature’s Super Protein!
Mystical and magical, this super protein is sure to surprise you! Spirulina is actually a blue-green algae that only grows in specific, exotic waters such as those found in Mexico and Hawaii. A few of its cousins, Chlorella and E3, have gained popularity recently, but health nuts everywhere are starting to take special notice of Spirulina’s superfood powers.
Here are just a few of its benefits:
1. Loaded with Nutrients
A single tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina powder contains (2):
● Protein: 4 grams, and has a complete essential amino acid profile (i.e. We get all that we need from it. To read more, see THIS previous article.)
● Vitamin B1 (Thiamin): 11% of the RDA.
● Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin): 15% of the RDA.
● Vitamin B3 (Niacin): 4% of the RDA.
● Copper: 21% of the RDA.
● Iron: 11% of the RDA.
● Decent amount of: magnesium, potassium and manganese, and small amounts of almost every other nutrient that we need.
7 grams of Spirulina = 20 calories and 1.7 grams of digestible carbohydrates.
This means, that gram for gram, spirulina is at the top of the list for most nutritious foods on the planet.
2. Eliminates Candida
The wellbeing of our immune system is highly dependent upon the balance of the microfloral bacteria in our gut. When more “bad” bacteria exist than “good”, we’re more susceptible to illness and disease. With the rise of sugar, unnatural ingredients, and even antibiotic consumption, our gut flora is all out of whack, and yeast/candida overgrowth is on the rise. However, with Spirulina we have hope! This amazing algae has been shown to contain anti-microbial properties that rebalance the bacteria in our intestines, inhibiting candida’s ability to survive. (1)
3. Boosts Energy
“When you look at the chemical composition of spirulina, it’s no wonder that people who regularly consume it have an abundance of energy. Dr. Oz recommends combining 1 tsp spirulina powder with 12 oz lime juice and freezing the mixture in ice cube trays for a healthy boost.
According to Dr. Oz, spirulina and lime enhance energy performance because they unlock sugar from our cells and, when frozen, the cold from the ice boosts metabolic energy while giving our bodies a ‘wake-up call.’”(1)
4. Fights Disease and Cancer
Chronic inflammation is highly correlated to causing disease and cancer, but because it’s a significant source of antioxidants, Spirulina has impressive anti-inflammatory powers that reduce oxidative stress. The main free-radical fighting component of spirulina is called phycocyanin, which also gives spirulina its unique blue-green color. (2) “Spirulina is also rich in tetrapyrrolic compounds closely related to the bilirubin molecule, a potent antioxidant and anti-proliferative agent.”
5. Speeds Up Weight Loss
We talked about (Here) how diets high in protein-rich foods (like spirulina) promote weight loss because it takes more energy to metabolize, and helps maintain lean tissue, which contributes to fat burning. Not only that, but also (as mentioned in point 4), antioxidant rich foods can reduce oxidative stress. Taking spirulina can minimize muscle damage, fatigue, and oxidation related to exercise-induced stress.
-Health & Wellness Coach
Michelle C.
Resources:
1. https://draxe.com/spirulina-benefits/
2. https://authoritynutrition.com/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina/