The Incredible Benefits Of Spirulina
Have you heard of it? Do you know all the benefits of spirulina? Don’t miss out on everything we can get from this nutrient source.
Although spirulina is currently consumed as a supplement, for several centuries it was “obtained” in a natural way.
It was already used in the Maya and Aztec times, and has many health-beneficial properties.
In this article, we’ll talk all about spirulina, a very powerful ancient remedy.
Brief history of spirulina
In the chronicles about the conquest of Mexico by Hernán Cortés, vegetation on the surface of Lake Texcoco and which was harvested by the Aztecs is mentioned.
They dried it in the sun and then baked it for food.
The name used by the natives was “Tecuitlat”, which means “stone product”.
This species only survived in waters with a high content of mineral salts.
The use of spirulina as food is also present in other cultures such as, for example, the Kanenmbu, in the Lake Chad region.
In Spain, this species can be found in the Doñana National Park, in Huelva, more precisely in the Santa Olalla lagoon.
It does not originate from the Iberian Peninsula, but arrived in this region transported by the flamencos on their migration from Africa.
In the last half of the 20th century, spirulina was used industrially.
Cultivation began in 1962 in arid regions where the salinity of the water was not suitable for conventional agriculture.
Although it is believed that it was an alga, they are actually prokaryotic organisms with a central region (where the nucleic acid is) and a peripheral region (with chlorophyll).
Currently, it is consumed raw in tablet or powder form.
We can generally be found in the dietary supplement sector of stores and supermarkets.
Spirulina Nutrients and Properties
This spiral-shaped cyanobacterium (hence its name) has a blue-green color due to the phycocyanin and chlorophyll it contains.
It is a wonderful complement that offers more digestive proteins than many foods (57% of the weight is made up of this nutrient).
Spirulina is also a great source of carbohydrates, lipids, nucleic acids and vitamin A and B12.
Among the minerals it offers we highlight calcium, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.
There are many health and beauty benefits that we can enjoy by consuming spirulina.
For starters, it’s a dietary supplement that slows down cell aging.
At the same time, as it also offers antioxidants such as beta-carotene, it is very good for eye health.
Because it has a lot of iron, it is recommended for people with anemia, tiredness and demineralization.
Professional athletes consume it to increase their performance in competitions and in training, as it allows them to regain energy, vitality and fitness.
As it is low in saturated fats and essential fatty acids, it is an ideal complement for people who want to lose weight or eat healthier.
As if that wasn’t enough, spirulina offers almost no calories. In addition, it contains an amino acid capable of suppressing appetite.
Spirulina provides several benefits
Spirulina has the ability to protect and nourish both the liver and the lungs.
In addition, it also helps us to:
- Detoxify the body;
- Strengthen the immune system ;
- Regenerate the intestinal flora (it is advised in cases of constipation, as it favors the formation of feces).
On the other hand, it contributes to the production of a neurotransmitter called acetylcholine, which keeps neuronal functions in balance and improves the health of the central nervous system.
Thanks to the vitamins in spirulina, brain cells function better (perfect to consume before a test, for example).
This saltwater-dwelling organism also has many benefits for cardiovascular health as it lowers cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as lowering high blood pressure.
Of course there are many more advantages of this exceptional complement, such as:
- Prevents osteoporosis during menopause.
- Helps you sleep better.
- Reduces symptoms caused by rheumatoid arthritis.
- Treats ringing in the ears.
- Decreases bad breath.
- Disinfects and heals ulcers or sores in the mouth.
Benefits of Spirulina for Aesthetics
In addition to all the benefits of this plant for our health, we can also highlight its properties in the area of beauty.
To start with, we must mention that due to its high content of minerals, vitamins and amino acids, it helps in hair growth and strengthening.
- For this reason, it is recommended for people who suffer from hair loss.
- Prevents nail brittleness.
- It also acts as a skin rejuvenator thanks to chlorophyll, linoleic acids and vitamin E.
How to consume spirulina?
We can find this complement in different presentations: capsules, liquid, tablets, tincture and powder.
The daily allowance allowed in adults is 3 to 5 grams.
Contraindications and side effects
People who suffer from gout or hyperuricemia, as well as women who are pregnant or who are breastfeeding, should avoid the consumption of spirulinas.
May cause diarrhea, vomiting, skin reactions and headache.
In these cases, therefore, one should stop consuming it and consult a specialist.
