Spirulina – a blue-green alga and its countless health-promoting properties

For centuries mankind has been searching for natural remedies for various physical and mental ailments. It used to be a necessity, but also today, despite the great progress in the field of medicine, numerous researches on medicines taken directly from nature are being carried out. Not infrequently they turn out to be more effective in fighting health problems than classical pharmaceuticals. One of plant raw materials helpful in recovery and elimination of many troublesome ailments is spirulina. It has an extremely valuable composition for our organism and shows a whole range of positive actions. Therefore, it is not surprising that for some time now spirulina is a hit on the market of superfoods and diet supplements. Get to know the most valuable properties of spirulina.

Spirulina – what is it?

Under the trade name spirulina there are blue-green microalgae named Arthrospira platensis. They inhabit the aquatic environment, belong to the group of cyanobacteria and occur in the form of spiral, thread-like colonies. They are considered to be one of the oldest forms of life on Earth.

Already many centuries ago spirulina was regarded as highly valuable food and antidote for many ailments. Its nutritional values were appreciated among others by Maya and Aztecs. In the seventies of XX century it was introduced on the market as a diet supplement. Today, it is grown all over the world, with Asia and America being the main areas of its cultivation.

Spirulina hit the market of dietary supplements and pharmaceuticals when it turned out how abundant in nutrients it is and how many beneficial properties it has. The high value of spirulina is also supported by the fact that this organism does not have permanent cell walls, therefore valuable ingredients contained in it are easily absorbed by us.

It is one of the best sources of protein (as much as 60-70% of its dry mass consists of protein), it is also a treasury of antioxidants (e.g. chlorophyll, phycocyanin), unsaturated fatty acids, it also contains a wide range of minerals and vitamins which are usually too little in our everyday diet. Thanks to its high nutritional value spirulina is one of the best ways to supplement the deficiencies of important nutrients.

Spirulina – composition. What valuable substances can we find in this emerald alga?

The huge number of health-promoting properties of spirulina is a direct result of its unique and abundant composition. Here’s a list of spirulina’s valuable bio-components:

Vitamins in spirulina

Spirulina contains a rich complex of vitamins such as:

• vitamin A (beta-carotene),
• vitamin E,
• vitamin C,
• vitamin K,
• vitamin D,
• vitamins of group B (B1, B2, B3, B6, biotin, B8, folic acid, B12).

What is worth emphasizing, not only the number of vitamins, but also the doses of particular vitamins in spirulina are very high. For example, beta-carotene can be found in spirulina 10 times more than in carrot. The vitamin B1 and B2 is in spirulina more than in most other foods. There is more vitamin B12 in it than in any other food.

Essential amino acids and proteins

The building blocks that proteins are made up of are amino acids. They are divided into those which the body can produce itself (endogenous) and those which it cannot produce (exogenous, essential) and which must therefore be supplied in food. In respect of amino acids, spirulina is a perfect supplier of protein. Not only it contains huge amounts of it (it consists in approximately 70% of protein), but it is also a complete, wholesome protein (containing full set of essential amino acids in proper proportions).

Therefore, it is worth introducing this product systematically to our diet, especially in case of vegetarian or vegan diet, or a diet in which we limit the intake of meat, dairy and eggs. Due to the abundance of proteins spirulina is an ideal addition to the menu of persons training.

Minerals in spirulina

It is very rare to find such wide range of miner als in one food product as it is in spirulina. What is more, many of them are present in really high doses so this alga is a perfect way to supplement mineral deficiencies.

It is also worth adding that bioelements contained in spirulina are easily absorbed by our organism, which is also its great advantage. Take for example iron in spirulina – there is much more of it than for example in liver, eggs or other animal products and additionally it is better assimilated. Another example – calcium. There is more of it in spirulina than in eggs, natural yoghurt, milk. The amount of potassium in spirulina is also impressive.

List of minerals found in spirulina:

• potassium,
• zinc,
• selenium,
• magnesium,
• calcium,
• copper,
• manganese,
• iodine,
• sodium,
• iron,
• chromium,
• sulfur,
• silicon.

Unsaturated fatty acids (NNKT) in spirulina

Fats are an important nutritional component fulfilling many essential functions (among others, they improve functioning of the nervous system, support the circulatory system, protect internal organs, they are a part of cell membranes). However, not every fat is a healthy fat. Trans fats and saturated fats consumed in excess can be very bad for us. In the daily menu we should reach mainly for products containing unsaturated fatty acids, which representatives are among others nuts, grains, vegetable oils and spirulina.

In spirulina we can find such unsaturated fatty acids as: gamma-linolenic acid (from Omega 6 group), alpha-linolenic acid (from Omega 3 group), oleic acid (from Omega 9 group). Due to high content of NNKT spirulina beneficially affects functioning of the key organs such as brain or heart, improves condition of tissues and supports many processes taking place in the body.

Other valuable components contained in spirulina

Spirulina also contains nucleic acids and antioxidants protecting our cells in the form of pigments such as: chlorophyll, phycoerythrin, phycocyanin, xanthophylls, carotenoids. In the composition of this rich alga we can also find valuable enzymes, dietary fiber, polysaccharides.

Spirulina – health promoting properties

Huge popularity of spirulina, especially among people leading healthy lifestyle and in need of support after going through various health turbulences, is a result of its positive influence on work of organs and tissues and effective improvement of regeneration processes. The rich composition of spirulina also translates into strengthening of the defensive functions of the organism against adverse effects. Here are the most important properties of spirulina:

Detoxification of the body

Spirulina stimulates the processes of cleansing the organism from all harmful substances. It influences the better work of urinary tract, increases the production of urine and thus contributes to effective elimination of toxins and by-products of metabolism (they are intensively removed from the body with urine).

Thanks to chlorophyll spirulina purifies blood and stimulates detoxification of liver and intestines. It binds heavy metals present in our organism and leads to their efficient excretion. What is important, apart from the cleansing effect, spirulina has a deacidifying effect.

Better physical shape, longer youth

Spirulina is an extremely nutritious product, thanks to which we fill ourselves with valuable substances and improve our general health. It gives the best results when used regularly and for a longer period of time. Thanks to high content of proteins, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants spirulina makes our organism more vital and our tissues and organs keep impeccable condition longer.

Spirulina also has a very good influence on the condition of skin, hair and nails. It makes our complexion look healthier and younger, hair is stronger, falls out less, has better color and is better nourished, nails are stronger and more resistant to damage.

Counteracting cancer and other civilization diseases, improving immunity

Beta-carotene, chlorophyll, vitamin E, phycocyanin, alpha-linolenic acid – these are only some of numerous antioxidants present in spirulina. Their role is to catch and eliminate the harmful free radicals, which destroy our cells and contribute to the development of cancer. What is more, antioxidants not only reduce the risk of cancer, but also prevent other diseases of civilization such as: hypertension, atherosclerosis, heart diseases, strokes, diabetes, eye diseases, neurodegenerative diseases (e.g. dementia).

Thanks to large deposits of proteins and antioxidants in spirulina our natural immunity is strengthened, body regenerates more efficiently, we are less susceptible to diseases, infections, allergies. This alga also shows anti-inflammatory, antibacterial and antiviral effects. It supports the fight against HIV, flu, herpes and anemia.

Thanks to antioxidants contained in spirulina also aging processes of the body are slowed down. Also thanks to antioxidants and unsaturated fatty acids the condition of our blood vessels improves, blood pressure is stabilized, cholesterol level is regulated.

Positive influence on the brain, stabilization of the nervous system

Thanks to the content of amino acids, unsaturated fatty acids, zinc, selenium, magnesium, vitamins from group B, spirulina has a very positive influence on our nervous system. It nourishes the brain and improves its efficiency, helps to improve concentration and memory, protects neurons from damage, reduces mental fatigue, improves mood.

Spirulina and slimming

It is worth noticing also another advantage of spirulina, namely multifunctional help in losing weight. The best effects are obtained when spirulina supplementation is combined with low calorie diet and increased physical activity. Then we can count on faster and easier getting rid of the extra pounds.

Spirulina accelerates metabolism and intensifies the process of getting rid of fat from the body. It supports liver and pancreas function, improves metabolism of lipids and carbohydrates supplied in food. Thanks to enzymes and fiber, it regulates digestive processes, improves intestinal peristalsis, and reduces digestive system ailments such as bloating, constipation, and a feeling of heaviness after a meal. It also contributes to the development of beneficial intestinal bacterial flora.

Thanks to phenylalanine content spirulina inhibits hunger, which allows us to keep better control over calories consumed. And thanks to complex carbohydrates this alga prevents sudden jumps in blood sugar. As a result, we are no longer plagued by attacks of ravenous hunger, our appetite is stabilised. We also feel less craving for sweets.

Due to the presence of iodine, spirulina can also inhibit the process of weight gain and support weight loss in people whose excess weight is associated with thyroid problems.

What is important for active dieters, spirulina increases energy and vitality and reduces fatigue and tiredness. Thanks to easily assimilable protein, it supports the work of our muscles. It increases their efficiency and accelerates regeneration.

Spirulina – users’ opinions

It is one of the most popular and highly acclaimed products from the superfoods category. With regular use, most people achieve their health goals.

The most frequently emphasized advantages of this alga are: improvement of immunity, brilliant effects in cleansing the body from toxins, improvement of skin condition, faster regeneration, improvement of physical and mental well-being, supplementation of nutritional deficiencies and improvement of blood results. According to many opinions spirulina is also a very good support in case of anemia, hypothyroidism and ailments of the cardiovascular system.

Spirulina – application

The most popular forms of spirulina are spirulina powder and spirulina tablets. Multicomponent dietary supplements with spirulina in capsules are also available.

Spirulina in powdered form will be a good option for us if we intend to use it in our daily menu. You can add it to many dishes and bio beverages, including blender smoothies, juices, pastes, sauces, soups, yogurts, cottage cheese, omelets, pancakes, and baked goods.

On the other hand, spirulina in tablets will be a better choice for people who prefer fast, convenient solutions in the field of supplementation (they prefer to take a tablet than to prepare health-promoting concoctions). Spirulina supplement will also be a good solution for people who are annoyed by its specific taste and smell (similar to fish taste).

Recently more and more popular are multi-ingredient products which contain spirulina but also other active substances supporting work of organism and purifying from toxins.

Spirulin Plus – combination of spirulina and other valuable ingredients

There are many products with spirulina available on the market of diet supplements. However the best solution for us will be a product rich in composition, in which the power of these algae is combined with the power of several known and valued medicinal plants. A good example is Spirulin Plus.

Composition of Spirulin Plus

The main component of Spirulin Plus is spirulina which is supported by another alga of high health-promoting value – chlorella. What else do you gain when you decide to take this product? Here are its other ingredients:

• Dandelion – one of the most valuable herbs with detoxifying and liver-supporting effects. It stimulates bile secretion, takes care of better digestive processes. It regulates sugar and cholesterol levels in blood, effectively suppresses appetite. It also shows antibacterial and antiviral properties.

• Alfalfa – strengthens the body, adds vigor, purifies and deacidifies the body. It improves the process of carbohydrates digestion and contributes to lowering the level of bad cholesterol and sugar in blood.

• Zinc – an element crucial for our immunity, as well as for the condition of our skin, hair and nails. What is more, zinc improves the work of the mind and has a positive effect on metabolism.

• Green tea – stimulates the removal of toxins and excess water from the body, improves digestion, improves fat metabolism. It adds energy and improves mood. Due to the high content of antioxidants (in the form of polyphenols), it scavenges harmful free radicals from the body, supports the heart and circulatory system and protects against cancer. It also has a positive effect on the condition of skin and hair.

• Nettle – has a diuretic effect, thus accelerating the removal of toxins from the body and reducing body swelling caused by excess water. Nettle is also one of the most effective ways to keep your body fit, vigorous, vital and perfectly immune.

Discover other properties of the product by visiting Spirulin Plus review

Spirulin Plus – opinions of internauts

The effects of the preparation are consistent with what the manufacturer declares on the official site. This is confirmed by numerous opinions about Spirulin Plus. As reported by Internet users, with regular use a great improvement in the condition of the entire body is visible.

Themost frequently mentioned results include: weight reduction, reduced appetite, effective body detoxification, deacidification, better mood, blood pressure normalization, lower blood sugar and cholesterol levels, increased energy and vitality, definitely better physical and mental shape, improved skin and hair condition.

Availability, price and dosage

The recommended dosage is 1 capsule 2 times a day (half an hour before meals). The cost of a single package is not high, but when you buy more, the price of the preparation is much lower.