Support for Cellular Health

Spirulina Background and Benefits

Spirulina is a type of bacteria that can perform photosynthesis, which is known scientifically as cyanobacteria. It includes two species in the Arthrospira genus, Arthrospira maxima and Arthrospira platensis. Spirulina is so named because these species were once classified in the Spirulina genus.

Mesoamericans such as the Aztecs used spirulina as a common food source until the 16th century when many of the lakes in Central Mexico were drained to develop other types of agriculture. The commercial production of spirulina was re-established at Lake Texcoco in the early 1970s by the agricultural firm Sosa Texcoco. Spirulina is also traditionally harvested from many lakes around the world such as Lake Chad.

Spirulina is commonly used as a dietary source of protein for vegetarians and vegans. The traditional preparation is to dry it into cakes, which are then used to make a broth. Common commercial preparations of spirulina include flakes, pills, powders, and tablets. Its primary value as a protein source is because it is a complete protein, meaning that spirulina contains all of the essential amino acids. In particular, the levels of cysteine, lysine, and methionine in spirulina are higher than those found in legumes.

Uses of Spirulina

The most common health use of spirulina is for detoxification and immunity. It is also used to support a healthy cholesterol profile, including both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Spirulina may also help support healthy liver function.

Liver Support

Spirulina may be used to help support healthy liver function. One study showed that patients who received 500 mg of spirulina three times per day for six months experienced greater improvement in liver function than those who received the same dosage of milk thistle.

Healthy Cholesterol Profile

Preliminary research indicates that spirulina helps support healthy cholesterol levels.

Nutrition

A recent study examined the effects of spirulina on undernourished children. A mixture containing spirulina, millet, and peanuts caused faster weight gain than a similar mixture that didn't contain spirulina.

Signs You May Need Spirulina

Spirulina is most likely to benefit individuals who are strict vegetarians or vegans, whether it is a lifestyle choice or the result of various health conditions. The absence of animal protein in the diet can result in a lack of one or more essential amino acids that are present in spirulina. The nutrients in spirulina are also easy for the body to assimilate, making it useful for individuals who have difficulty taking in nutrition from other sources. Nursing mothers may also take spirulina for the healthy development of their babies. Spirulina contains a significant amount of gamma linolenic acid, which is an essential ingredient in breast milk.


Health Articles

Five Superfoods You Don't Know About

Medicinal mushrooms While many of us have foraged for mushrooms in the woods, few of us realize the nutritional benefits those mushrooms pack. Researchers at Penn State University – as part of the organization’s Mushroom Science and Technology dep...

Other Ingredients That May Be Of Interest

Chlorella

Immune System Support Chlorella Background and Benefits Chlorella is a genus of green algae that contains about six species, with C. vulgaris being one the most commercially important. These single-cell organisms are no more than 10 microns in diameter and lack flagella. Chlorella species have ce...

Green Tea Extract

Support For Mental Alertness Green Tea Extract Background and Benefits Green tea extract is derived from the green leaves of the tea plant, scientifically known as Camellia sinensis. It has been an essential herb in traditional medicine for centuries, especially in China and India. Green tea extr...

Search