Spirulina is one of the most popular superfood supplements out there.
Here's what to know about the benefits of spirulina.
Spirulina, a natural algae found in both fresh and saltwater, has long been called a superfood because of its high concentration of nutrients and antioxidants. While the ancient Aztecs were among the original users of spirulina, today it's a common ingredient in smoothies, juices and more. NASA has even found a way to repurpose it, growing it in space to help astronauts stay healthy, as reported in the journal Marine Drugs.
Now, spirulina is one of the most popular supplements on the market. However, you should still use caution, as research on its effects continues. Before you use spirulina, this is what you need to know.
HEALTH BENEFITS OF SPIRULINA
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae, considered one of Earth's oldest life forms. It is a cyanobacteria that uses photosynthesis to create energy, similar to a plant. Because of its natural nutritional content, it has been called a superfood for humans, but how does it actually affect human health?
These are some of the known health benefits of spirulina.
1. It's Full of Nutrients and Antioxidants.
Spirulina has many different nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy, including vitamins such as thiamin for healthy metabolism and vitamin A for vision, as well as minerals such as copper and iron that help improve immunity. There are also other nutrients, like omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids that fight inflammation, and antioxidants like phycocyanin and beta carotene that help reduce the risk of certain diseases. With 60% protein content, spirulina provides more protein than many vegetables and is a popular protein source for vegans and vegetarians.
Dried Spirulina (1 tsp)
Vitamin | Amount
Protein: 4 grams
Calcium: 8.4 milligrams
Thiamin: 14% of the Daily Value (DV)
Riboflavin: 20% of the Daily Value (DV)
Niacin: 6% of the Daily Value (DV)
Copper: 47% of the Daily Value (DV)
Iron: 11% of the Daily Value (DV)
Spirulina also contains magnesium, potassium and manganese in small amounts.
All of these vitamins and nutrients can help you meet your daily nutrition requirements.
2. It Can Support Healthy Cholesterol.
Spirulina has been found to lower "bad" and total cholesterol and triglycerides, while increasing the good cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This prevents the fat and cholesterol in your blood from clogging your arteries, which, in turn, can put strain on your heart. One small study found that those who took 1 gram of spirulina daily had lower cholesterol after just three months.
Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels helps prevent heart disease, as well as heart attack and stroke, per Harvard Health.
3. It Could Help Your Immune System.
Spirulina contains vitamins and minerals that are important for immune health. Additionally, research has found that it increases production of white blood cells and antibodies, both of which the body uses to fight illness. Importantly, spirulina's effects on the immune system make it risky for those with autoimmune diseases like lupus, per WebMD.
Spirulina's anti-inflammatory properties may also benefit people with allergies from common culprits including dust, pollen and pet hair. It has been explored as an alternative treatment for allergic rhinitis symptoms, although more research is needed.
4. It May Lower Blood Pressure.
Spirulina can increase the production of nitric oxide, which relaxes the blood vessels and helps them dilate. Multiple studies have found that a daily dose of spirulina can help reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure (the first and second numbers on a blood pressure reading). It has also shown positive effects for those who have hypertension.
5. It Can Support Eye Health.
Spirulina can benefit eye health as well. It is rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that the body converts into vitamin A. Vitamin A has been shown to help prevent vision loss and promote better eye health, per the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
According to the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai, spirulina also contains a high concentration of zeaxantuin, which can reduce the likelihood of cataracts and age-related macular degeneration. Some animal research has supported spirulina's eye health benefits.
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