Spiral Sun Loving Bacteria
Spirulina is an edible green powder or tablet that is often thought of as algae, but it’s really a bacteria. It is a bacteria that relies on the sun for all of its energy just like a plant. It is called spirulina because it is spiral-shaped.
Protein-Packed
It’s a very good source of protein. It is more than half protein! No plant comes close. Only lean meats have this much protein. Not only is it high in protein, but it’s also a complete protein, containing every amino acid in a balanced profile.
Vitamin, Mineral Punch
It is a good source of iron and other minerals. The minerals are in an easy to absorb format. Also, it is a great source of vitamin A. Although it is claimed to be a good source of B12, it’s not. It does contain a lot of B12, but it is a form of B12 that is not available to humans.
Birds Survive on It
Some birds, such as the lesser flamingo, can survive eating only spirulina. The blue-green compound gives them their hint of pink colouring. (The lesser flamingo is mostly white.)
Fight Like Mr. Billy Reuben
Spirulina has other benefits. One of its main compounds, the compound that gives it the blue-green colour, is similar to bilirubin. Bilirubin is a natural cell protector. People who have a naturally high bilirubin level have a much lower likelihood for heart disease. It’s thought that this bilirubin-type compound in spirulina is good at fighting off molecules that destroy cells, the free radicals. It protects many organs from damage, including kidneys, liver and lungs.
Heavy Metal Sucker
In tests, spirulina reduced harmful harmful heavy metals in the body. It does this by attaching to heavy metal molecules and flushing them out of the body. It acts like a heavy metal vacuum cleaner.
Spiral to Heart Health
In people with high cholesterol, 2 grams a day of spirulina was found to reduce bad cholesterol while raising the good cholesterol. These results were from 3 months of daily use. The same 2 grams a day helped control blood sugar by making insulin more effective.
Score 10 Points
In addition to lowering cholesterol, spirulina lowers blood pressure. Some studies show a 10 point reduction in blood pressure after taking spirulina for 3 months. Studies with rats showed a remarkable ability to reduce the risk of stroke.
Brain Defender
Another area of ongoing research is spirulina’s role in reducing Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. It’s thought to protect the brain from the hidden inflammation and harmful compounds that cause Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s. It may even prevent some age-related decline in brain function.
Add Spirulina
As with any supplement, make sure you buy from a well-known source. The cheapest option is rarely the best. But a daily dose of 2-4 grams of spirulina powder or tablets might improve your health.
