Spirulina - the superfood from the depths of the ocean
Spirulina is a blue-green algae which is used as a food source because of its high content of protein, vitamins, minerals and cartenoids.
Spirulina is a relative of the brown algae but it is not an ocean plant - it lives in the slightly salty waters of many lakes.
Many health effects are given to spirulina through the years. Here are some facts about it.
Spirulina got its name because of its spiral shape and grows in nature or it could be grown artificially. According to specialists, 65% of spirulina is protein and it also has many aminoacids. Spirulina has the characteristics of a plant and bacteria at the same time. Its colour comes from the green chlorophyll and a blue protein. Spirulina contains many important nutritious substances like beta carotin, vitamin B12, vitamin E, iron, copper, etc. Although they comprise of one cell only, spirulina algae are 100 times bigger than other algae.
What is it good for?
Spirulina is used to boost the immune system. Specialists say that it increases the production of antibodies which the body products to fight infections and diseases. It can also help grow probiotics in the intestines, among which are Lactobacillus. The food supplements with spirulina are taken to suppress the appetite, protect from cancer in the mouth, improve conditions of ADHD, block allergic reactions, fight fatigue and protect the liver. In labs spirulina helped fight some viruses like herpes and flu.
There are different ways in which spirulina is processed. It could be in tablets, powder, capsules. The standard dose for an adult is estimated to be 500 mg per day. Spirulina can lead to side effects if it is not pure. That is why before you take it, make sure that it is coming from pure waters!
