Spirulina Health Benefits And Nutrition
What is Spirulina?
According the to the University of Maryland, spirulina is an algae that is blue-green in color. It is said that this algae is very rich in vitamins, minerals, carotenoids and protein. It also contains antioxidants that help to protect our cells from damage; and it grows in warm climates in alkaline waters.
It is advised that you do not obtain your spirulina from just any source as algae can be very toxic and contain microcystins. They can absorb metals found in the water in which they grow and this can lead to serious side effects.
Here is what was discovered about this algea
Several studies were done on this blue-green stuff and the results were great! More studies are still being done to determine if these are effective on people. Some of the studies that were conducted were done in test tubes so no conclusive human tests were done as yet. However the results are quite promising.
- Immune System Booster: Test done in the lab and on some animals showed that there was an increased production of antibodies and proteins that fight off infections. A study conducted on chlorella (another algea) did not have the same effect.
- Anti-Histamine: The tests that were done on animals and in tubes showed that spirulina inhibits the release of histamines. Studies are still being conducted to ensure that they will be effective on humans.
- Boost Production of good bacteria: Antibiotics not only destroy bad bacteria but also the good ones. One study showed that spirulina increases the production of probiotics. Probiotics are good bacteria.
- Protein Rich: Spirulina contains 62% amino acids.
- May be able to treat Herpes, HIV and the Flu: Studies are still being done to prove whether or not this will be effective on humans.
- May protect against liver damage and diseases: More research is being conducted to discover the extent of the treatment of these viruses.
- Mouth cancer relief: A conclusive placebo study was done in people who chew tobacco. This study showed that the lesions caused from chewing tobacco had been affected by taking spirulina as opposed to the group who did not.
Nutrition Facts on Spirulina - Serving size 1 cup dried
Nutrient
| Quantity
| Daily Value
|
|---|---|---|
Vitamin A
| 638 IU
| 13%
|
Vitamin B6
| 0.4mg
| 20%
|
Vitamin C
| 11mg
| 19%
|
Vitamin E
| 6mg
| 28%
|
Vitamin K
| 29mcg
| 36%
|
Thiamin
| 3mg
| 178%
|
Riboflavin
| 4mg
| 242%
|
Niacin
| 14.4mg
| 72%
|
Folate
| 105mcg
| 26%
|
Pantothenic Acid
| 4mg
| 39%
|
Protein
| 64.4g
| 129%
|
Calories
| 325
| 16%
|
Carbohydrates
| 27g
| 9%
|
Dietary Fiber
| 4g
| 16%
|
Total Fat
| 8.6g
| 13%
|
Calcium
| 134mg
| 13%
|
Iron
| 32mg
| 177%
|
Magnesium
| 218mg
| 55%
|
Phosphorus
| 132mg
| 13%
|
Potassium
| 1527mg
| 44%
|
Sodium
| 1174mg
| 49%
|
Zinc
| 2.2mg
| 15%
|
Copper
| 6.8mg
| 342%
|
Manganese
| 2.1mg
| 106%
|
Selenium
| 8.1mcg
| 12%
|
Spirulina Side effects and Precautions
Even though spirulina is a natural product it may cause some side effects if taken in excess or for the first time.
Caution: Do not take spirulina if you have.....
- a fever
- hyperparathyroidism
- phenylketonuria, a metabolic condition
- multiple sclerosis
- rheumatoid arthritis
- lupus
- or are allergic to seaweed
Spirulina may cause:
- Itching or rash
- Slight dizziness. If symptoms persist stop taking the product
- Slight fever due to the body's need to burn the extra protein in the product.
- Excessive thirst
- Constipation
- Stomach ache
How is spirulina taken
Spirulina is taken as a dietary supplement and comes in the form or tablets, powder or flakes. Please read the packaging carefully before purchasing the products and make sure you are aware of any contraindications before taking it.
According to the University of Maryland it is not recommended to give spirulina to children or persons under 18 without consulting your physician.
The recommended dose for adults would be 4 -6 tablets per day, however, you should consult your health care provider before starting any supplement regimen.
