Have you noticed bright green smoothies and vivid smoothie bowls popping up on your Instagram feed? A common ingredient used these days to get that photo-worthy effect is spirulina. However, spirulina isn’t just a trendy addition to smoothies. It’s also loaded with healthy nutrients and antioxidants.
The Aztecs first consumed spirulina to reap its health benefits. Nowadays, it’s a common supplement powder for health-conscious people. If you have yet to learn about why this pretty green powder deserves the hype, this article is for you. Let’s get into what exactly spirulina is, the health benefits you can expect to see from incorporating it into your routine, and our favorite spirulina supplement!
What is spirulina?
Spirulina is blue-green algae. More specifically, it is a kind of cyanobacteria that is part of the blue-green algae family. Like other algae and plants, cyanobacteria gets its energy from the sun through photosynthesis. When you buy spirulina, it comes in a powdered or tablet form that can be easily added to foods like smoothies, juices, or a simple glass of water.
The nutritional content of spirulina is impressive. One tablespoon of dried spirulina powder contains about 4 grams of protein, 8 milligrams of calcium, 14 mg of magnesium, and 95 mg of potassium. A serving of spirulina also delivers vitamins C, B-6, A, K, and many other nutrients that are essential for our health. As you can see, dried spirulina is full of amazing stuff for the body, making it a great option for those interested in supplements.
Health benefits of spirulina
1. Full of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory effects
Free radicals in the environment enter the body and can cause oxidative damage. Antioxidants protect cells in the body from oxidative stress and damage by fighting free radicals. The main component of spirulina is an antioxidant known as phycocyanin, which also gives the powder its signature blue-green color. The high content of phycocyanin in spirulina reduces inflammation that is caused by free radicals and the oxidative damage they cause to our healthy cells.
2. May improve gut health
A healthy gut is essential for our body to function properly and efficiently. As we age, it becomes more difficult for our bodies to maintain a healthy gut. A 2017 study indicated that spirulina could be the answer in improving our gut as we age. Spirulina alone will not ensure our healthy gut bacteria is preserved, but it could be a great option for those looking to keep their gut in good shape.
3. Could improve muscular strength and health
Some research indicates that spirulina can help our muscles endure long periods of exercise and keep them strong. This circles back to the antioxidants in spirulina: exercise causes the body’s cells to incur oxidative damage. Antioxidants reduce these effects and ease inflammation. Active individuals and athletes may find spirulina helpful in increasing their muscle endurance and reducing fatigue.
4. May ease allergy symptoms
Since antioxidants have anti-inflammatory properties, spirulina may reduce allergy-related inflammation in the nose. It could also reduce the symptoms of allergy rhinitis, like sneezing, sniffling, runny nose, and congestion. If you suffer from nasal allergies, adding spirulina into your daily routine could be a great way to ease symptoms and inflammation.
5. Could help with weight loss
Since a tablespoon of spirulina is packed with nutrients but only contains 20 calories, those who wish to lose weight may benefit from having spirulina every day. It comes down to a simple calorie deficit, so it’s not a miracle worker. However, a daily dose of spirulina can ensure you get proper nutrition while helping you maintain that calorie deficit.
What’s the best spirulina supplement?
Spirulina is a fantastic supplement that is loaded with nutrients. However, it’s best to choose a supplement that’s fortified with the nutrients that spirulina does not have, like fiber. This will help you round out your daily nutrition without combining a bunch of different powders and tablets.
Our Green Routine Superfood Blend contains spirulina along with 20+ other greens and 15+ reds. Green Routine is loaded with organic greens, superfoods, and probiotics to provide your body the micronutrients, energy, and digestive benefits for comprehensive wellness. It’s got all the antioxidants from spirulina, plus those found in kale, blueberries, pomegranates, and more wholesome greens and reds.
The best way to take Green Routine is similar to the way you’d take pure dried spirulina. Add a scoop to a glass of water, protein shake, smoothie, or even yogurt. It works great as a pick-me-up in the morning, as a pre- or post-workout fuel-up, or a late night snack that won’t weigh you down.
Takeaway
Spirulina isn’t only celebrated for its unique blue-green color. This superfood is packed with tons of nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins to support your health. Add a scoop of spirulina powder or Green Routine to your routine to reap its health benefits the easy way.
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Sources:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina