Amongst the many species of algae, Spirulina is one of the nature’s gift to humanity considered as one superfood. Spirulina is but one of the thousand species of algae that is found in water, in soils, on rocks, on plants. Spirulina is an extremely small blue-green alga that has a spiral coil shape thus getting its name Spirulina – a Latin word meaning spiral .
Spirulina is the original green superfood. Spirulina is an algae that can be produced easily and has the ability to grow in both ocean and alkaline waters. Spirulina can be cultivated in extreme environments where many conventional agriculture products can not thrive making it an eco- friendly food.
This tiny aquatic plant is said to be a prehistoric food meaning it has already been eaten during the prehistoric times. Since it is a prehistoric vegetable, Spirulina‘s discovery was viewed as the primary answer on world’s concern on nutritional deficiency and could significantly improve the nutrition of local populations currently on the brink of starvation.
60% of spirulina‘s content is protein and also provides high concentrations of many other nutrients – amino acids, minerals, trace elements, enzymes. Spirulina yields 20 times more protein than soybeans, 40 times more protein than corn, and according to some books it’s 400 times more protein than beef. With the benefits of protein rich foods without the risk of getting heart disease and the benefit of not gaining extra pounds from the fat of meat consumed.
Spirulina is rich in beta-carotene known for better eyesight and anti-oxidants that would help fight certain type of cancer. Spirulina’s beta carotene is 10 times more potent than carrots. Spirulina is abundant in iron, magnesium and trace minerals, and is easier to digest than iron supplements available. Spirulina is the highest source of B-12, essential for healthy nerves and tissue.
Spirulina is an invigorating drink for the immune system. Best drink for those working in the graveyard shifts to boost their immune system and help combat colds and diseases that thrive when the immunity system is under attack and resistance is at its minimum. Studies also suggest spirulina reduces serum LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins – the bad cholesterol) and raise HDL (High Density Lipoproteins- the good cholesterol ). They also testify that Spirulina improves gastrointestinal and digestive health because it inhibits the growth of bad bacteria like e-coli and Candida yeast and encourages beneficial flora like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria.
