| Spirulina: A Superfood |
 Spirulina: The underestimated protein: the protein digestibility of spirulina is rated at 85% compared to about 20% for beef. Spirulina is being called “the food of the future”
for its amazing health benefits. As I learn more about Spirulina I am very excited about everything it has to offer and this is why…
Spirulina is a blue-green algae dietary supplement mostly found in alkaline fresh water with great health benefits. Spirulina is being called “the food of the future” for the high amounts of protein, vitamins, and minerals it contains that are easy to digest and absorb and because it can be grown without harming the environment.
Spirulina is made of up to about 70% complete protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids for our dietary needs. The form of protein in spirulina is beneficial to those who have problems from excessive animal protein because spirulina has a relatively pure quality of protein.
Spirulina contains many vitamins such as vitamin A, B-1 (thiamine), B-2 (riboflavin), B-3 (nicotinamide), B-6 (pyridoxine), and B-9 (folic acid), and B-12 (cobalamin). The minerals in spirulina include potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium, and zinc.
Spirulina helps to cleanse dioxins out of the body. It contains immune-boosting nutrients, helps with the liver and kidneys and it increases production of anti-inflammatory chemicals. It may also help to decrease or prevent some allergic reactions. Spirulina is used in the treatment of anemia, hepatitis, gastritis, diabetes, hypoglycemia, obesity, overeating, malnourishment, poor skin tone, and chronic skin conditions.
Finding one supplement that can do so much for me is something I am really excited about. Spirulina has so many uses that I am sure all of us can find ways that it will benefit us.
By: Kayla Clark
Sources: Pitchford, Paul. Healing with Whole Foods. Berkeley: North Atlantic Books, 1993. |