It is no secret that Spirulina is one of the world-famous supplements with multiple health benefits. Spirulina can be categorized as cyanobacteria (blue-green algae), and its standard daily dose usage is 1–3 grams (up to doses of 10 grams have been also used effectively on a daily basis). Among the health benefits of Spirulina, we point out a few in this article:
Rich in nutrients
Seven grams of Spirulina powder (containing 20 calories, 1 gram of fat, and 1.7 grams of digestible carbs) contains:
- Protein
- Vital Vitamin B1 (thiamine)
- Vital Vitamin B3 (niacin)
- Copper
- Potassium
- Manganese
- Omega-3 fatty acid
- Magnesium
- Omega-6 fatty acid
- Iron
- etc.
For all the nutrients Spirulina contains, it has been compared to eggs and basically contains all the essential amino acids for the human body. It has been shown that against false claims, Spirulina does not contain B12 vitamin, but rather a pseudo vitamin B12, which is not useful for humans.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory
Oxidative damage can lead to cancer and other diseases, thus antioxidants can help the body to fight these diseases. Especially, the effects of Spirulina on oral cancer has been studied and have been understood to lead to the disappearance of precancerous lesions. It is still speculative if Spirulina has general anti-cancer effects.
Decreasing “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides and increasing “good” HDL cholesterol
Heart disease and diabetes are two of the world’s most common diseases. Daily doses of Spirulina can help with lowering the total cholesterol and thus improve the patient’s health condition. Also, Spirulina is capable of fighting lipid peroxidation, which is caused by the fatty structures being a target to oxidative damage. Lipid peroxidation can lead to many diseases, specifically diabetes. It has been suggested that Spriluna can also lower the blood sugar level, and thus be effective for treating diabetes.
May reduce risks of heart attacks, strokes, and chronic kidney disease
A dose of 6 grams per day of Spirulina has been shown to reduce blood pressure which is the key driving factor behind heart attacks, strokes, and chronic kidney disease.
Alternative treatment for symptoms of allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis can be triggered by pollen, animal hair, or even wheat dust and appears as inflammation in the patient’s nasal passageways. Spirulina has been shown to be effective for treating this symptom (with daily 2 grams doses of Spirulina).
Speculative effectiveness against anemia
In one study, it has been shown that spirulina supplements can be effective for increasing the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and improve the body’s immune system. Anemia usually results in constant fatigue and prolonged weakness of muscles. It has also been speculated that Spriluna can fight the exercise-induced oxidative damage which results in muscle fatigue, and lead to muscle strength and endurance.
Although many of the studies above may remain speculative and unconfirmed, it is still a fact that Spriluna is one of the most nutritious supplements that can be beneficial for health from many aspects. Please note that the studies and research carried out regarding the effectiveness of Spriluna against various diseases are not sufficient and confirmed, thus, consult your doctor before consuming daily doses of this supplement.
