The world first heard of spirulina a few years ago. It was first thought that it was the miraculous green dust of the sea, and the secret weapon of the Aztecs. Today we know that spirulina offers tons of protein for vegans and vegetarians. It is also full of important antioxidants, enzymes, vitamins and minerals.
In addition, it contains twice as much nutrients as 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables.
So what makes spirulina so special?
It is actually a cyanobacteria or a blue-green alga as experts explain. Spirulina has its name thanks to its bright color. Most of its pigments are bioavailable and healthy, especially beta-carotene and chlorophyll-a.
Algae produce oxygen through photosynthesis, which makes it quite similar to plants on earth. It is also full of many beneficial nutrients.
Where was the first cyanobacterium found?
Today, we can find it everywhere, including the oceans, fresh water, wet soils, moist rocks in deserts and bare rocks, and even rocks in Antarctica. A large percentage of spirulina marketed in our country is collected on the coasts of Hawaii and South America.
It is later sold in the form of powder, pills and flakes. It comes pure or combined with other ingredients.
Benefits of Spirulina
Spirulina is almost 60% protein, and is an excellent alternative to sources of meat proteins. Nutritionists say it is one of the plant sources of vitamin B-12.
Now, vegetarians lack this vitamin in their diet. Spirulina contains ALA, (omega-3), LA (omega-6), GLA (reducing inflammation) and DHA (main brain component). These healthy lipids have many important roles.
Gram per gram spirulina contains:
3,100% more beta-carotene (vitamin A) than carrots
5.500% more iron than spinach
600% more protein than tofu
280% more antioxidants than blueberries
Green-blue algae contain vitamins B1 (thiamine), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (nicotinamine), B6 (pyridoxine), B9 (folic acid), C, D and E.
It is an excellent source of potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium and zinc.
Additional benefits:
Relieves allergies
Increases immunity
Regulates blood pressure
Normalizes cholesterol
Prevents cancer
Stimulates friendly bacteria in the intestines
Reduces the risk of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration
Provides strong anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial potential
Offers high antiviral activity against HIV, herpes and hepatitis
Strengthens insulin resistance
Prevents liver damage caused by chemotherapy drugs
The best way to use spirulina
You can simply swallow the pill or add ¼ or 1 teaspoon of powder to your shake. Nutritionists suggest using small amounts at first, because their taste is a little sweet, and some can not really tolerate their taste. Spirulina is also available as pre-flavored, powdered protein pack.
Here's a good trick to try:
Add a spoonful of powdered spirulina to a bag of popcorn, and shake it. For maximum flavor, add garlic powder to taste, and stir again. Caution: Do not collect algae at random from your local pond, as you may accidentally ingest inedible species and put your health in danger.
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Fuente: www.rebotalo.com
