What Is Spirulina? 10 Benefits of Spirulina

Spirulina is an edible blue-green algae packed with minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants that naturally nourish the body. This plant-based protein, most often consumed as a supplement, has been heralded as a superfood. Let’s discuss the many benefits of spirulina, its potential side effects, and how to implement it in your diet.

What is Spirulina?

Spirulina is a nutrient-dense food that derives from the sea. It is a cyanobacteria (single-celled microbe) most commonly referred to as blue-green algae. It was first used by the Aztecs, dating back to the 1300s.

While it was once limited to health food stores, its popularity has skyrocketed in the past few years. You may have seen it flashed across social media as a buzzword or noticed it on the menu at your favorite smoothie shop. Even NASA astronauts use it for nutrition.

But the truth is, spirulina is excellent for general health so it really does deserve all the hype.

Health Benefits of Spirulina

So what are the benefits of spirulina?

1. Detoxifies

The nutrients present in this superfood promote the elimination of toxins. Consuming it aids in the elimination of heavy metals in the body (i.e., nickel, cadmium, and lead).

2. Boosts Immune System

It has more immune-boosting properties than both blueberries and carrots. It increases the white blood cells which produce antibodies. Antibodies help your body fight off infections.

3. Supports Gut Health

Spirulina is easy to digest and actually improves digestion. Consuming it can also assist in the growth of healthy gut bacteria known as probiotics.

4. Improves Sinus Health

Use it to combat seasonal allergies. It helps to expel mucus, relieve a runny nose, nasal congestion, and alleviate general allergy symptoms. it can also restrict histamines, which can trigger allergic reactions.

5. Anti-Cancer Properties

The antioxidants present in this plant-based protein combat free radicals (a harmful molecule). Antioxidants also reduce inflammation, decreasing the risk of diseases like cancer. In one study, spirulina was effectively used to shrink oral cancer tumors.

6. Protein Rich

It is packed with amino acids (the building blocks of protein) so it’s super nourishing. In fact, spirulina is 60% protein so it’s one of the best natural sources of protein. It’s great for those who are malnourished.

7. Excellent Source of Iron

Spirulina has more iron (and less calories) than spinach. It helps with period symptoms. It is excellent for those with anemia because it boosts the hemoglobin content in red blood cells.

8. Good for Brain Health

A spirulina-rich diet leads to less oxidative stress. Oxidative stress increases chronic issues in the brain, including stroke, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease. The edible algae is also a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. Fatty acids help combat anxiety and depression.

9. Supports Heart Health

The anti-inflammatory properties of spirulina can reduce the risk of heart disease. It can improve blood cholesterol levels and triglycerides so those with high blood pressure should definitely try it to help lower blood pressure.

10. Helps Manage Diabetes

The superfood can prevent diabetes or assist in controlling chronic disease. Consuming it lowers blood glucose levels and the protein keeps blood sugar levels under control.

How to Use Spirulina

Take it as a dietary supplement in tablet form or as a powder.

• Drinks: Use spirulina powder to make nutritious, refreshing drinks like this Spirulina Smoothie and Detoxifying Spirulina Fresca Drink. It’s most popularly used in smoothies and smoothie bowls, but it’s also great in teas and even cocktails.
• Sauces, Dips & Spreads: Incorporate it into pesto, guacamole, and hummus.
• Healthy Snacks: Add a spoonful of the powder to Date Balls for extra nutrition.

Note: Although it can be added to recipes of your favorite foods, I do not suggest drinking it plain with just water. It comes from the sea so it has a slightly fish taste that works better when combined with other foods and flavored liquids. It also has a distinct blue-green hue that may make it less appealing in certain dishes (i.e., soups and stews).

Who should not eat spirulina?

Although it has many benefits, certain people should avoid using spirulina or consult with a registered dietitian.

• It is a natural blood thinner so those with blood disorders should consult with their healthcare provider before adding the supplement to their health regimen.
• Those with autoimmune diseases like HIV, arthritis, or lupus should not use it because it impacts the immune system. For that same reason, pregnant people should not consume it either.
• Individuals with phenylketonuria (a metabolic disorder) should not take it because their bodies can not process amino acids.

Side Effects of Spirulina

There is a slight chance that you will encounter one of the following when consuming this:

• Nausea
• Diarrhea
• Vomiting
• Dizziness

FAQ

What is blue spirulina?

Blue spirulina is phycocyanin, a component of spirulina, not a variety of it. Therefore, it doesn’t have the same benefits. It is an extraction of the plant-based protein.

What is spirulina powder?

It is the powder form of spirulina. The powder is consumed as either a beverage or food item.

Are you supposed to take spirulina every day?

Although there is no set rule, you can consume up to 4 grams per day.