For some time now, the word “superfoods” has appeared in the media and on store shelves. Although it sounds like another brand of food, it does not have much to do with marketing, but quite a lot with healthy eating.
Superfoods are simply true “vitamin bombs”. The products defined using this term make perfect additions to a well-balanced diet, because even a small serving contains as many beneficial ingredients as some large meals.
Spirulina is invariably at the top of the most popular superfoods list. This inconspicuous algae provides great health support thanks to the content of vitamins A, K1, K2, C, E and those from group B, as well as iron, potassium, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium and sodium. If we add to that unsaturated fatty acids and numerous phytonutrients such as chlorophyll or lutein, as well as a powerful dose of antioxidants and proteins, this substance has a really impressive portfolio.
And we’re not talking about trace amounts here. The algae is so saturated with these health-promoting substances that only one gram of pure spirulina per day is enough for a perfectly healthy adult (up to 10 g is recommended in cases of reduced immunity and other health problems).
When is spirulina beneficial?
- For an active lifestyle
Like many other superfoods, spirulina has gained popularity as a nutritional supplement for an active lifestyle. It’s no wonder – with only a few calories, it delivers a significant effect and with even higher protein content than tofu. The protein in spirulina contains a full set of amino acids. Thanks to its anti-inflammatory effect, spirulina also perfectly supports the process of muscle regeneration. It is the perfect partner for an effective training session.
- For fatigue
Spirulina is recommended for boosting energy and vitality in the body. This is understandable given the range of vitamins it delivers. Even if you don’t take it on a daily basis, consider using it in moments of stress or heavy workload during the year. L-tryptophan has a positive impact on mood during times of stress and fatigue, while glutamic acid aids memory and focus.
- For an immunity boost
Speaking of the seasons, remember to include spirulina in your diet before the cold weather sets in or spring cold season begins. It will help your body to increase its production of antibodies and provide vitamins responsible for overall reinforcement of the body’s defences. The beta-carotene and phycocyanin in spirulina, in turn, render it helpful even if you already have a cold thanks to their anti-inflammatory properties.
- To reduce the risk of heart disease
Spirulina lowers blood pressure, and helps to reduce cholesterol and repair the damage caused by poor diet, increasing the throughput of “clogged” vessels. That doesn’t mean, however, that with a little “magic green powder” you can continue leading an unhealthy lifestyle. Spirulina works effectively when supported by the proper diet.
- For weight loss
Due to its high protein content, as well as a positive effect on metabolism, spirulina has long been a common ingredient in dietary supplements. And indeed, if you’re interested in losing a few extra pounds, it’s a good item to include in your menu. All the more so because it makes a great addition to salads or cocktails, which commonly feature in healthy diets.
- For diabetics or those at risk of developing diabetes
Although not enough research has been carried out on this issue to give 100% certainty, it seems that spirulina may have a very positive impact on the health of people suffering from type I and type II diabetes. It reduces oxidative stress, which is very common with this disease, as well as reduces the glucose level before and after a meal. For this reason, it is also recommended for people with insulin resistance in the prevention of diabetes.
- For allergies
Another spring cold? Spirulina will help. Studies show that it has a beneficial effect on the sinuses and reduces the amount of secretions in allergic rhinitis, effectively relieving a stuffy nose. This is another reason to use it in the spring, when we are more interested in outdoor activity.
- For a youthful appearance
Unlike even the best cosmetics, it works essentially on the whole body. On the one hand, it limits the action of free radicals, and on the other, it stimulates the production of collagen. It is as if our body is constantly undergoing spa treatments to improve skin elasticity, add vitality to the whole body and reduce wrinkles.
- For those living in areas of high smog
Unfortunately, it is increasingly common for the entire cold season to be characterised by polluted air. As a result, even leading a very healthy lifestyle does not protect us from exposure to the same problems as habitual smokers. Spirulina aids in the elimination of toxic substances from the body, so in winter it is almost a must but ought to be used even throughout the rest of the year.
- For those working at the computer
Staring at a screen everyday – first the computer, then the TV – is a real challenge even for healthy eyes. Inclusion of spirulina in your diet is also worth considering to prevent deterioration of vision and inflammatory eye diseases or to alleviate them. Spirulina also helps to counteract night blindness, as well as reduces the risk of cataracts and macular degeneration.
To sum up, we can safely conclude that spirulina is a real superfood for anyone who wants to lead a healthy lifestyle. And although it is most popular among active people and athletes, consuming spirulina can clearly benefit those who spend most of their time at a desk or on the couch. So, is there anyone we wouldn’t recommend it to? The answer is yes.
Who should avoid spirulina?
Super algae are not recommended during pregnancy and breastfeeding. They should also not be consumed by people with autoimmune diseases or phenylketonuria. Spirulina may also interact with some drugs, so it is always worth consulting your doctor before starting supplementation. This also applies to those for whom spirulina is not recommended – the doctor may still consider it a supplement worth taking.
Spirulina health and safety
Whether you take spirulina at your own initiative or on the advice of a doctor, its quality is important to assess. A good supplement has a simple composition and its manufacturer has the appropriate quality certificates. So it’s worthwhile to invest more time and money because we are talking about an ingredient that actually deserves to be called a superfood.