Spirulina is technically a blue-green algae. The blue-green algae are usually found growing in fresh and marine water. Additionally, This processed algae and is available in powder and tablet forms. Furthermore, there are many spirulina benefits for health. It is a good health supplement and has gained immense popularity due to its countless health benefits. Let’s talk about health benefits, nutritional value, side effects, and dosage.
15 Spirulina Health Benefits
Did you know that spirulina is one of the oldest life forms on this earth? Interestingly, the ancient Aztecs also used spirulina because of its incredible health benefits. Let’s look at some of the most exciting spirulina benefits.
1. May Be Good For Mental Health
It is a good source of amino acid- Tryptophan. It is necessary for the production of another neurotransmitter – serotonin. Serotonin maintains the mood. Therefore, These chemical compounds are essential for maintaining good mental health.
2. Spirulina Good for Weight Loss
Spirulina is very high in nutrition and also low in calories. Moreover, it can also boost metabolism. Thus, adding it to your daily diet can help you lose excess weight without losing any nutrition. Additionally, it is readily available and can be added to food in various ways.
3. Might Reduce Blood Pressure
This wonderful alga can be excellent for your blood pressure. Consuming spirulina can release nitric oxide in the body. Consequently, Nitric oxide production may trigger relaxation of the arteries, therefore maintaining blood pressure.
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4. Spirulina benefit for Skin
Are you worried about fine lines and wrinkles? Then you should know about spirulina benefits for the skin. This alga is rich in selenium, tyrosine, vitamin E, and tocopherol. These compounds are notorious for their anti-aging effect on the face. Therefore, using spirulina can work wonders for your skin!
5. Good For Wound Healing & Bone Health
Spirulina is a rich source of vitamin K. Vitamin K is necessary for blood clotting and bone development. Therefore, including this in your diet is good for your bones and wound healing.
6. Helps With Acne
Acne can be annoying and troublesome to get rid of. But did you know that this blue-green alga can also treat your acne issues? It improves skin metabolism. Additionally, antioxidant content protects the skin from free radical damage and flushes out harmful toxins. Therefore, giving you healthy, glowing skin!
7. Can Help With Liver Disorders
Liver disorders can be deadly, but spirulina can help! The Free radicals in spirulina can protect the liver from free oxidation damage. Additionally, phycocyanin can detoxify the liver by promoting fecal elimination and bile salts production. Thus, it can be conducive to treating liver disorders.
8. Strengthens Immunity
Yes! Consuming spirulina can boost your immunity. It is rich in Vitamin E, vitamins B6, and Vitamin C. These compounds can increase hematopoiesis. Consequently, increasing white blood cells, and antibodies.
9. Protects The Eyes
The benefits of Spirulina also include better eye health. It contains plant pigment called zeaxanthin which protects the eyes from cataracts and age-related vision loss. Additionally, carotenoid compounds protect the eyes from macular degeneration.
10. Good For Oral Health
Due to its antibacterial properties, it is excellent for improving oral health. Furthermore, mouthwash rich in spirulina reduced plaque and gingivitis in people.
11. Maintains Blood Sugar
Phycocyanin is a pigment that gives spirulina its infamous blue-green color. This pigment stimulates insulin production in the body. Therefore, it is fantastic for blood sugar control.
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12. Encourages Hair Growth
Did you know that spirulina is an active ingredient in shampoo and conditioners? Spirulina health benefits also include healthy, shiny hair. The proteins present in this algae can effectively reduce hair thinning and hair fall.
13. Good For Anemia
Anemia is caused by the reduction of hemoglobin in the blood cells. Spirulina is rich in Iron. Iron is needed for hemoglobin production. Ultimately, taking spirulina supplements is good for treating anemia.
14. Helps With Allergic Rhinitis
Allergic Rhinitis is the inflammation caused by dust and pollen. One of the spirulina benefits also includes histamine blocking, which can help manage allergic Rhinitis. Additionally, it is also rich in omega-3, a solid anti-inflammatory agent.
15. Manages Cholesterol Levels
Undeniably spirulina is suitable for managing cholesterol. Regular usage significantly lowers LDL and Triglyceride Levels in the body. Therefore, it maintains heart health.
Spirulina Nutrition Facts
Spirulina can be taken as a powder or tablet. Before considering this amazing health supplement, it is important to know the nutritional content. Don’t worry! We have got you covered! Here are some Spirulina nutrition facts to curb your curiosity.
| Essential Nutrients | Spirulina Nutritional Value of 1 tbsp. (7g) |
|---|---|
| Spirulina Calories | 20 |
| Carbohydrate | 2g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Protein | 4.02g |
| Iron | 2mg |
| Calcium | 8mg |
| Vitamin B1 | 0.167mg |
| Vitamin B2 | 0.257 mg |
| Vitamin B3 | 0.896 mg |
| Magnesium | 14mg |
| Potassium | 95mg |
Spirulina Dosage
Spirulina dosage per day can be dependent upon your age, gender, lifestyle, medical history and other factors. Therefore, one should take proper care before taking any health supplement.
The recommended dosage for spirulina in powder form is about 1 – 10g per day for effective results.
In tablet form about 4 – 5 tablets (500mg) are efficient.
Spirulina Side Effects
While spirulina has many health benefits, unfortunately, excess usage can cause some side effects in people. Therefore, it should be taken with care. Let’s look at some spirulina side effects that may harm your health.
1. May Cause Allergy
Some people may be allergic to cyanobacteria. It can cause abdominal pain, itching, vomiting, and diarrhea.
2. Can Harm Kidneys
Protein metabolism of spirulina in the body can increase ammonia production by the kidneys. It can have a detrimental effect n kidneys. Ultimately resulting in renal failure
3. Can Worsen Autoimmune Disorders
Taking excess spirulina can trigger an immune response that can be problematic for people suffering from autoimmunity disorders.
4. Might Effect Blood Clotting
This algae’s complex proteins can directly interfere with the blood clotting process. Therefore, it should be taken in moderation.
5. Can Be Toxic
Spirulina sourced from unknown or unsafe sources can have toxic heavy metals like lead mercury, cadmium, and arsenic. It can cause damage to vital organs like the liver and kidneys. Additionally, in comparison to adults, children are more at risk of heavy metal poisoning by spirulina.
Conclusion
Spirulina is a form of blue-green algae that usually grows in water bodies. Additionally, it offers many health benefits. This magical alga is available in both powder and tablets. Some health benefits are – improved digestion, improved eye health, lowered cholesterol & blood pressure. While it is an excellent supplement, people suffering from autoimmune disorders and phenylketonuria should actively avoid consuming it.
