Spirulina is one of the most popular supplements and superfoods in the world. The reasons are multiple, but it is mostly because of its numerous nutrients and antioxidants. Even though the popularity of spirulina is quite recent, this algae originated 3,5 billion years ago! For Aztecs, it was a primary source of protein. But, let’s come back to the present and see the top eight benefits of spirulina that will boost your health.
A powerhouse of nutrients
Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria that grows in both fresh and saltwater. Cyanobacteria can produce energy from sunlight through photosynthesis, the same way as other plants. Therefore, spirulina is super rich in nutrients– vitamins B1, B2, B3, and B6, iron, magnesium and potassium. It is one of the most nutrient-dense foods because it also contains a high-quality protein. All these factors suggest that spirulina is one of the best superfoods you can take.
Antioxidant properties
Since spirulina is helping your body to get rid of toxins, it is considered to be a super powerful detoxifier. Sometimes, it is used as a natural water filter. Its role is to keep out harmful toxins, such as lead and mercury. The reason behind it lies in the fact that spirulina contains proteins and peptides. Their role is to bind to the toxins and get them out of the body afterwards. As a result, those toxins won’t be absorbed into your blood because the proteins will knock them out of your system.
Anti-cancer properties
Believe it or not, spirulina is super powerful, even in fighting cancer. One study, from the National Center for Biotechnology Information examined 87 people with precancerous lesions. Of all people who took one gram of spirulina every day for one year, 45% of them testified that their lesions have disappeared. However, when people stopped taking spirulina, a large number of them redeveloped lesions. Hence, spirulina has excellent anti-cancer properties, especially against a precancerous lesion of the mouth (OSMF).
Boosts the immune system
Among all other compounds, spirulina also contains phycocyanin. It is an antioxidant specialized to fight anything that causes damage to your cells. If you feel sick, you should add some extra spirulina to your diet. That way, your immune cells will have the additional protection that is super necessary for fighting the illness. There is one more study from 2011 which shows that spirulina supplementation can increase the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and improve immune function. Hence, spirulina is one of the most significant body protectors and enemies of cold and flu.
Endurance and muscle strength
Athletes who regularly take spirulina will improve their endurance. How is that possible? It boosts the blood flow department, especially when your body needs it the most – while doing hard exercise. Also, athletes who take spirulina won’t get tired quickly when lifting weights. Again, it boosts your blood flow, and therefore, provides additional energy in vital moments. As a result, the protein in spirulina will help you work more and build muscles a lot sooner.
Reducing blood pressure
High blood pressure is one of the main factors of severe diseases and illnesses, such as heart attacks and strokes. A larger dose of spirulina (4,5 grams) can help you reduce blood pressure to the average level. The reason lies in the fact that spirulina stimulates the production of nitric oxide. It is a molecule that helps widen blood vessels. Because of it, blood will flow more efficiently, and the heart doesn’t have to work super hard.
Fighting allergies
Nowadays, many people suffer from different allergies – grass, pollen, environmental factors, animal hair, etc. Spirulina can massively help you in fighting these issues. Taking two grams per day is recommended in this case. Your nose won’t become a trouble, and your eyes won’t go red. Whether you have nasal discharge, nasal congestion or sneezing, spirulina will successfully fight all of them.
Fighting candida
Because of its antifungal properties, spirulina can also effectively fight candida. It prevents candida build-up, which can further lead to infections. Cyanobacteria help the growth of healthy bacterial flora. When flora grows in the intestines, it will stop candida from growing.
As you can see, this superfood has a massive amount of benefits. Try to use it regularly, especially if you suffer from some of the diseases mentioned above.