Benefits of Spirulina – Before the rise of modern medicine, ancient people used to rely on several herbs. People from different regions used different types of herbs. People use those herbs and spices to treat various diseases, and they also use them to prevent those diseases also.
Due to the modernization of everything, General people forget about those super food items. Spirulina is among those super food items which have been used by our ancestors. There are several benefits of Spirulina. Today we will discuss everything related to Spirulina.
What is Spirulina?
Spirulina is blue-green algae. Scientists believe it is among the oldest lifeforms on earth. It was first used by Aztecs in Mexico and people living around Lake Chad in Africa. It is usually cultivated from bodies of water like ponds and lakes.
Spirulina Is known as a superfood. Health experts believe it is all in one source for every nutrient, including protein, Vitamins, fatty acids, and several minerals.
Ancient health experts have been using Spirulina to treat various diseases. Even modern science supports several benefits of Spirulina, which we are going to discuss in a few minutes.
Nutritional information on Spirulina
Before we move ahead and talk about the benefits or side effects of taking Spirulina, let’s first discuss the nutritional information about Spirulina.
one tablespoon of Spirulina
- Total calories 20
- Protein 4 grams
- Fat 1 grams
- Carbohydrates 2 grams
- Zero fiber
- 0 sugar
If you take a look at 4 grams of protein in one tablespoon of Spirulina, you might find it not good. At the same time, it can be a very good protein source for vegans who do not eat any dairy products.
Spirulina is a very good source of magnesium. If you are among those people who do not get enough magnesium, then you can add Spirulina to your daily diet.
Benefits of Spirulina
Now, let’s take a look at some of the important benefits of Spirulina. Even though there is a long list of benefits, we are only going to discuss the most important benefits only.
Anti-cancer properties
Spirulina is known to be rich in anti-cancer properties. It includes several antioxidants which have anti-inflammatory effects on the body. As you are already aware, chronic inflammation can lead to cancer and other diseases.
Spirulina contains a plant pigment that gives its blue-green color. Several studies have concluded that large pigment found in spirulina is known to have a double effect. First, it is going to lower the body’s inflammation, and it is also going to block tumor growth and kill cancer cells at the same time.
Even though it contains anti-cancer properties, you should never leave treatment or Rely on Spirulina as a treatment option if you are suffering from cancer.
Every health expert in the world will suggest that you go and consult with your doctor first.
Heart health
If you take a good look at the nutritional information of Spirulina, then you will find it is rich in magnesium, and magnesium is very good for your overall heart health.
Apart from that, several researchers have already concluded that the protein found in Spirulina is very good, and it can absorb bad cholesterol from our body. Normal levels of cholesterol will keep your arteries clear and reduce the strain on your heart. It can lead you to better heart health.
One more interesting fact about Spirulina and heart health is that Spirulina can increase nitric oxide production in our bodies. The increased production of nitric oxide in our body can help us to relax other blood vessels. It can also help us reduce our blood pressure.
Blood sugar levels
Spirulina is also well known to reduce increased blood sugar levels. It can be very beneficial for all types of diabetes, including type one and type 2. Even though Spirulina can not repair the damage caused by diabetes over a period of time, it can help you control your diabetes anytime you start taking it.
There was one very interesting study on Spirulina which included more than 500 people. The results of that study were very promising as Researchers found that people who take at least one to 8 grams of Spirulina on a daily basis have seen an impact on their blood sugar and insulin levels.
If you are also suffering from diabetes, then kindly do not stop taking your medicine and rely on Spirulina alone. Spirulina can help you lower your blood sugar levels, but it cannot become a permanent solution.
Liver health
Spirulina Is also the reason for a healthy liver. Researchers have studied Spirulina for its good effects on the liver. In a short study, 13 people suffering from the non-alcoholic fatty liver disease were given a fixed amount of Spirulina, and it was concluded as a good supplement to reduce the severity of the disease in just a short span of time.
Obesity
Lastly, Spirulina can also help you to come out of obesity. There are several studies on obesity and Spirulina. In the studies, Spirulina was able to reduce her body weight.
Even though the results were not as promising as you might think, Spirulina can be a good supplement in your fitness journey. Spirulina can work best if you are also having a good diet and workout routine.
If you are not eating in a calorie deficit manner and working out on a regular basis, then it might be very difficult for you to lose weight and come out of obesity.
Side effects of Spirulina
Along with the benefits of Spirulina, there are several side effects also. Health experts suggest everyone take care of their body once they start taking Spirulina.
Generally, it is completely safe to consume Spirulina, but some people have reported side effects of consuming Spirulina. Apart from allergic reactions, there is a very low probability that you will ever experience any side effects due to Spirulina consumption.
Allergic reaction
Allergic reaction is one of the biggest side effects of consuming Spirulina. Health experts suggest everyone consult with their doctor before they start taking Spirulina. It is also among the severe side effects of consuming Spirulina.
Health experts have recorded some cases where people get moderate to severe allergic reactions once they start taking Spirulina. Usually, the allergic reaction happens when you take Spirulina for the very first time. That is why it will be a wise decision if you consume Spirulina under the watch of health experts.
If you have already consumed spirulina and now you are experiencing swelling around your face, tongue, and throat, then you should call 911 or visit any nearby hospital. All of these are classical signs of having an allergic reaction.
Body pain
There is a probability that you might experience pain throughout your body once you start taking Spirulina. Health experts have recorded some cases where people experience mild to moderate body pain once they start consuming Spirulina.
Apart from pain throughout your body, you might also experience headaches and muscle stiffness. Usually, people do not have to take any medicine in order to lower their body pain, but you can consult with your doctor.
Precautions related to Spirulina
Before we wrap this session, let’s take a look at some precautions related to Spirulina.
People who have an inability to process amino acids and individuals with other amino acid disorders should not consume Spirulina. Apart from that, health experts also suggest every person suffering from Maple syrup urine disease avoid consuming it.
Spirulina is moderate to high in protein content, and it is also rich in several amino acids, which can interact with your disorders and make your condition worse.
Even though health experts have not researched the effects of Spirulina one pregnancy, it is always going to be a wise decision if you do not consume it without consulting with your doctor.
Health experts suggest everyone buy Spirulina from a well-renowned source. It can be contaminated with things like lead and other heavy metals, which can hamper your health.
What is the right dose of Spirulina?
There is no right or wrong dose of spirulina. Health experts have not conducted any studies on the dosage of Spirulina. Usually, health experts suggest everyone not to consume more than two tablespoons of Spirulina. To be on the safer side, you can start with one tablespoon as a daily dose, and later you can switch to two tablespoons or even three tablespoons of Spirulina.
Can Spirulina Interact with alcohol?
There has not been any study reported that focused on the interaction of alcohol with spirulina. Health experts usually suggest everyone has at least a two hours gap between consuming alcoholic beverages and spirulina. The two-hour gap will help you lower the interaction of both of the things, and it will also help you reduce the probability of side effects.
