Spirulina : Possibly the World’s Healthiest Food?
Spirulina is a tiny aquatic plant whose benefits have been proven in countless studies over the past 20 years. One little natural pill contains plenty of nutrients like protein, vitamins, minerals, enzymes and pigments in the most natural and easily absorbable form.
What exactly is Spirulina?
Spirulina is a tiny, single cell, blue-green algae (about 0.5 mm in length) that is exceptionally rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals that our body needs. Spirulina grows in tropical sunshine and only in a pollution free environment which makes it even more special.
What does Spirulina contain that makes it so highly nutritious?
Protein – Spirulina contains an unsually high amount of protein which contains all essential amino acids
Essential Fatty Acids – Spirulina contains a range of healthy fatty acids such as
Vitamins- all kinds of vitamins such as B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12, vitamin C, D and E are part of Spirulinas long list of healthy nutritive value
Minerals- potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium and zinc are all part of spirulinas nutritional label
Photosynthetic Pigments – Spirulina contains chlorophyll-a, xantophyll, beta-carotene, echinenone, myxoxanthophyll, zeaxanthin, canthaxanthin, diatoxanthin, 3’-hydoxyechinenone, beta-cryptocanthin oscillaxanthin, phycobiliproteins c-phycocyanin and allophycocyanin.
What does Spirulina do for you?
- helps prevent heart damage
- fights fatigue
- helps build resistance
- reduces the severity of stroke
- reverses age-related declines in memory
- prevents and treats hay fever
- improves weight gain
- corrects anemia
- increases vitality
It has lately even been proven to boost cancer fighting substances in the body while it strengthens ones immune system. A more detailed article on this topic will follow shortly (future publishing date is sometime in April- so check back for details)
How should you take Spirulina?
The recommended amount for each day is 1-3 grams even though there is no risk of overdoses. You can take Spirulina any way you like to and can even add it to your food (see recipes below) the only thing you should avoid, is cooking it.
Are there any side effects I should be aware of?
There are reported allergic reactions to spirulina. Symptoms include dry fevers and nausea. In such instances inducing vomiting to quell the symptoms and contacting medical services is recommended.
Where to get it
Spirulina is available as a supplement in all kinds of forms shapes and colors. Ranging from tablets to flakes and powder.
Spirulina recipes
Below are some popular ways of enjoying your spirulina
Morning Smoothie
Blend 1 tablespoon spirulina in 2 cups of fruit juice (apple, orange, pineapple, peach or blend).
For thickness add fruit (banana, berries, apple, peach, orange, pear). For extra nuttiness add almonds or sunflower seed. For more flavors, add vanilla or lime to suit your taste.
Mix well in a blender. Makes 2 servings.
Veggie Cocktail
Blend 1 tablespoons spirulina in 2 cups of vegetable juice (carrot, tomato, celery or blend).
For thickness add vegetables. For extra nuttiness add almonds or sunflower seed. For flavors, add herbs and spices (parsley, dill weed, cayenne, horseradish) to suit your taste.
Mix well in a blender. Makes 2 servings.
The most popular way to enjoy spirulina is to add it to your favourite fruit or vegetable juice in a blender. Or just plain distilled water is an excellent way for maximum absorbtion
Complete Breakfast quick and
Blend 1 tablespoon of spirulina in 2 cups of apple, orange or pineapple juice. Add fresh fruit like peach, pear, apple, pineapple, banana, orange or berries. Be creative! You can also add things like almonds or sunflower seeds or flavours such as vanilla or lime to your liking. Spices are also good. For a thicker smoothie, add ice or use more fresh fruit, less juice. (Mix well in a blender. Makes 2 servings).
Afternoon Veggie Blast
Blend one tablespoon spirulina in 2 cups of your favourite vegetable juice. Add whole vegetables for a thicker consistency, herbs or spices to suit your taste. (Mix well in a blender. Makes 2 servings).
Spirulina Chippies
2tsp paprika, 2tsp garlic, 2tbsp spirulina, 1tsp cumin 3tbsp soy sauce. Slice six potatoes or kumara into desired sections of chips. Pre cook chips in microwave or oven. Put chips and all spices into a bag and shake, or just sprinkle spices over chips. Bake in oven at 350F until browned.
Spirulina Guacamole dip
2 avocados, juice of 1 lemon, 2tsp garlic, 3tbsp spirulina, 1 tomato, ? onion, 2tbsp chilli sauce, salt and pepper. Put all ingredients into a blender and go for it! Aim for a thick consistency, perfect for party dips!
Tip:
If there is a time of day when your energy runs low, take some spirulina with water and see how your body feels one - two hours later. You will be amazed! I recommend to consistent users of spirulina, try once every 2 weeks, the spirulina cleanse. This involves taking one day to cleanse and detoxify the body by consuming only spirulina and water, taking 10 grams every 2 hours during your day. Keep in mind this day must be a ‘quiet day’ where you do not over exert yourself. This will be hugely beneficial to your body and you will feel amazing for the rest of your week. I firmly recommend this!
I hope I was able to widen your horizon with this short introduction to the super-food spirulina. Enjoy a boost of energy at any time of the day with this wonderful natural wonder weapon.
Tags: nutrition, spirulina
