Health Benefits of Spirulina and Why take it?

Here’s a quick overview of the health benefits of spirulina and spirulina in general in case you haven’t come across this superfood before, and wondering what is spirulina? In short, spirulina is a popular natural supplement that is believed to offer a myriad of benefits for the body.

Spirulina is a spiral-shaped highly nutritious salt water plant (also found in freshwater lakes), when harvested from non-contaminated waters, can offer lots of vitamins and minerals including potassium, phosphorus, magnesium, iron, and calcium. Spirulina algae may be an acquired taste for some, and it can be a bit of a challenge to take it directly with water, so spirulina tablets may be a good alternative. For others who aren’t as picky or for those who enjoy the taste of seaweed, regularly adding spirulina powder to a green smoothie or meal can be a good health booster and help in supplying the body with essential amino acids.

Spirulina is often associated with the freshwater algae chlorella, which is also rich in vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. Spirulina and chlorella are both nutrient-rich, and are often combined in powder form. Nutrition experts have studied spirulina and chlorella many years and both algae types have now become popular natural supplements.

Health Benefits of Spirulina

Spirulina plays a key role in warding off diseases owing to its high antioxidant properties and high amounts of calcium. When ingested, spirulina can bind with heavy metals in the body and eliminate them. By removing toxins and cleansing the system, people may feel better and look better. Fat burning may be facilitated in the process, so if you are looking for ways to reduce fat, this may be something to turn to. Spirulina may also help in lowering bad cholesterol and triglycerides as well as blood pressure. Spirulina is also noted as a great source of chlorophyll which help remove toxins from the body.

Spirulina supplements often come with a  heavy price tag and some people may wonder if spirulina is worth it? Spirulina algae alone may not make a noticeable difference but when combined with a balanced lifestyle and healthy eating habits, some people may find spirulina to be a long-term health booster.

Adding Spirulina to Meals 

There’s plenty of room for creativity when it comes to adding spirulina to meals. Check out some inspiring spirulina recipes online, from smoothies and dips to tofu salad (with other vitamin-rich ingredients such as tomatoes and bell peppers), to pasta and paté.  You may also mix it up other healthy ingredients such as fruits and nuts and make a nutritious meal that way. You may want to try some of these Spirulina Smoothie Recipes.

Where to buy Spirulina? 

A quick online browse will surely reveal that lots of vitamin stores offer it in powder or tablet supplement form. Most organic food stores carry Hawaiian spirulina multivitamins popular for its health benefits, you may even find some in the health section of your local supermarket. Just remember to go with Organic spirulina which should give you the best option of getting you the right nutrition.

Do you take spirulina or do you think you will give it a go?

References: Dr Mercola | Herbwisdom