Did you know that Spirulina was a source of nutrition for the Aztecs in the 16th century and has been widely used all over the world to earn its fame as a potent superfood and “a miracle from the sea”? In this article, we will outline the 4 health benefits of spirulina powder.
If you want to know more about the nutritional value of the plant, let’s get going!
What is Spirulina?
Spirulina is a variety of cyanobacteria – blue green algae naturally growing in our habitat for millions of years!
Spirulina contains several nutrients, chlorophyll, minerals, antioxidants, and phycocyanobilin – the plant pigment that is known to give spirulina a green color and aids in reducing inflammation in the body among other benefits. It contains high protein content. The quantity of protein contained in spirulina is also comparable to the amount contained in eggs. It ensures that vegetarian diets can also get all the necessary amino acids into the body. So what exactly drives the popularity of Spirulina and what are the benefits of including spirulina in your diet?
If you have these questions running through your mind, continue reading! Here are 4 health benefits of Spirulina Powder that will drive you to include it in your diet!
1. Anti-inflammatory and Antioxidant Properties
Spirulina proves to be a rich source of antioxidants that aids in protecting the body against oxidative damage that can be harmful by causing multiple ailments in our body. The prime component of spirulina that acts as a source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties is phycocyanobilin. Phycocyanobilin does so by fighting free radicals that inhibit the signal release of inflammation molecules in our body.
Spirulina also prevents skeletal muscle damage due to oxidative stress. It is specially seen in patients of autoimmune diseases like diabetes, heart failure, hypertension, and atherosclerosis.
2. Anti-Carcinogenic Properties
Spirulina is known to naturally increase the effectiveness and efficiency of our immune system by promoting the production of infection-fighting radicals in the body. A study at UC Davis found that spirulina contains cytokines, which are the essential frontline defense for our body to hoard off viruses and cancer cells.
Spirulina’s effect on Oral cancer is a widely studied field. It establishes the success of reducing lesions in patients who take a prescribed amount of spirulina every day.
3. Mental Health Support
Spirulina also has a positive impact on our mental health. This is because of the fact that spirulina is a rich source of tryptophan. Tryptophan is the amino acid that helps to generate serotonin production in our body. Since a variety of mental illnesses such as depression and anxiety is due to a drop in serotonin levels of the body, spirulina is said to regulate these levels and plays an active role in our well-being.
4. Healthy Gut, Healthy Life
The cell structure of spirulina is one to account for as its soft structure makes it easy to digest. This factor enables spirulina to have an active role in maintaining and promoting our gut health which is vital for a strong immune system. Spirulina can also help to maintain healthy gut bacteria during the aging process of the body to prevent diseases.
How to eat Spirulina powder?
Our spirulina is harvested directly from viable ponds, carefully monitored to maintain its purity, dried, and finally distributed in the form of spirulina powder. To get the maximum benefits from our spirulina powder, mix a small spoon of spirulina powder into a glass of juice or water and drink it directly. You can also add a small spoon into a smoothie to get an extra dose of vitamins from your drink.
Something Fishy?
After reading the 4 health benefits of spirulina, you receive a great package of spirulina powder, you are elated to start consuming it but when you open the bottle, you are hit with a muted bitter smell.
Have you ever been in a similar situation and wondered if there is something fishy with your spirulina?
Good Spirulina has a bitter taste and smell as it is a form of algae growing in freshwater lakes and ponds. Though it has its scent, it should not be overpowering either. An overpowering smell indicates that spirulina has a high bacteria count.
Galactic Superfood
Grown in an array of freshwater ponds and lakes, a single spoon of spirulina can account for all the necessary amino acids and contains a chunk of essential vitamins, minerals to maintain a healthy diet. The nutritional profile of spirulina has undergone deep research. NASA has taken spirulina into the realm of space during space travels because of its impressive benefits and for its capability to be grown in space as a superfood for humans; making it a galactic superfood!
Owing to its high protein-rich properties, spirulina is also a great topical remedy for various ailments.
Keep up with our blog to have information on articles revolving applications of spirulina for skincare and haircare coming soon!
Link to our Spirulina Powder from Idukki District: https://homegrownplatter.in/product/organic-spirulina-powder-nutritious-superfood-tamil-nadu/