Spirulina Contains Plentiful Vitamins And More

Jul 2
07:11

2010

Thelma Oliver

Thelma Oliver

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Spirulina is actually one of hundreds of blue green algae species. Algae, including spirulina, are tiny organisms that usually grow on inland waters and look like scum. Algae types are usually divided by color like blue-green, green, yellow-green, red, and brown. Just green algae alone has 8000 species. Of the three main types, spirulina is the easiest to digest.

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Spirulina is one of hundreds of blue green algae species. Algae are organisms,Spirulina  Contains Plentiful Vitamins And More Articles found throughout the world, that usually grow on inland waters. It resembles a blue-green scum. Algaes are usually divided by color. Some examples are green, blue-green, yellow-green, red, and brown. There are 8000 species of green algae in the world. Spirulina is the easiest of the three main types of algae to digest.

Spirulina does not have roots, leaves, or stems as most herbs do. But spirulina does contain chlorophyll and performs photosynthesis. Spirulina also creates proteins and sugars as animals do.

Africans living in the Sahara region eat dried spirulina with grains and vegetables. The Aztecs of Mexico were known to eat Spirulina as a staple food, fixing it by drying it and then spreading it on tortillas. Both animals and humans have counted on spirulina as a source of food for centuries.

Here are some of the benefits of spirulina. Spirulina contains antioxidants that enhance the immune system. It is highly nutritious and is an excellent source of protein, chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. For example, it has 26 times the calcium of milk. It also contains phosphorus, B12, iron, and is easily digested. It is a safe food with no side effects and is easy to store. In fact, it has been called the “Manna of the future.” It is used to treat anemia, cataracts, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, glaucoma, hepatitis, and physical imbalances. It also aids weight loss.

We mentioned spirulina’s ability to enhance the immune system. It does this by producing anti-inflammatory chemicals known as interferons and interleukins. Spirulina may decrease or prevent some allergic responses and block the release of histamine from mast cells during an allergic reaction. In so doing, spirulina may prevent or at least decrease histamine's effects. These effects would include blood vessel expansion, muscle contraction, and stomach acid production.

The afore mentioned antioxidant and immune-enhancing properties in spirulina may help it fight cancer cells. It also helps to release a chemical in the body that attacks tumor cells. Spirulina also appears to block virus cells from entering into host cells. In tests several viruses, including HIV, have apparently been killed or damaged by spirulina.

NASA stated, "The Nutritional value of one kg spirulina is equivalent to 1,000 kgs of assorted fruits and vegetables.” In other words, spirulina is an exceptionally nutrient substance. Spirulina is made up of 85% protein, compared with 20% in beef. All the essential amino acids and most of the nonessential ones are found in Spirulina and, as noted above, it is extremely rich in vitamins and minerals.

Spirulina may be purchased in three forms- tablets, capsules, and powder. One tablespoon of spirulina powder is about seven grams and one to ten are recommended daily. However, when treating more serious illnesses like hepatitis, use four teaspoons a day. The true is, you can consume as much as you want. You can even use it as your primary source of protein. Some make Spirulina smoothies, sprinkle it on their food, or add it to fruit or vegetable juices to add nutrition. It’s a great addition to soups, salads, or pasta, and can change plain yoghurt into green algae yoghurt. But note that Spirulina is most nutritious when uncooked.