subject: Healthy Spirulina Nutrient Rich Algae [print this page] Spirulina is a greenish blue form of algae that only has one cell and thrives in warm water lakes and ponds. Many different recipes have been developed for the algae throughout the years and have a long history of being used for human consumption. This substance has many quality health benefits and was used by the Mayas and the Aztecs as a central substance in their diet many years ago.
This algae is popular with health fanatics and has a wallop of potential nutritional value. Sixty percent of the odd looking substance is all vegetable protein, and essential ingredients include iron, vitamin e, zinc, B complex, copper, and magnesium. It also has the properties of antioxidant beta carotene and at high levels of all of them. These are only a few of the many healthy properties and nutritional ingredients which can be found in this algae. Even though many people are hesitant to consume foods of this nature, the fact of the matter is that they shouldnt be- it is available in flakes, powders and other forms for consumption.
Spirulina is one of the few vegetable foods that contain all eight of the essential amino acids the human body needs to manufacture protein, making it a popular supplement among vegans and vegetarians. Spirulina doesnt just provide protein, vitamins and minerals. It also contains phycocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that can protect against cancer; calcium spirolan, a polysaccharide with antiviral properties; chlorophyll, which helps detoxify the body; and mucopolysaccharides, which can help prevent arteriosclerosis and heart disease.
Spirulina may also help reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure as well as assist with weight loss programs - some reports suggest that taking a large teaspoon of spirulina powder about an hour before a meal can help with appetite suppression. There are several spirulina supplement brands available in stores and online for basic nutrition or targeted needs.
Organic Hawaiian spirulina is one of the most popular varieties available, since the waters near Hawaii are clean and free of impurities, and the region enjoys the sultry weather and consistent sunshine that spirulina algae needs to grow. Consumers should look for the certified organic label on spirulina supplements, since this label ensures that the supplement meets the strict regulations that normally oversea the organic foods industry.
Whichever way that you ingest Spirulina, weather it is in flakes, powder, or tablets, this super food has the nutritional value to increase your immune system and give you nutrients that the human body needs and cannot live without. When considering a nutritional supplement, such as spirulina, you must diligently research all available options and beware of the potential for misleading information some manufacturers use to sell a product.
