Spirulina is one of hundreds of blue green algae species. Algae are organisms, found throughout the world, that usually grow on inland waters. It resembles a blue-green scum. Algaes are usually divided by color. Some examples are green, blue-green, yellow-green, red, and brown. There are 8000 species of green algae in the world. Spirulina is the easiest of the three main types of algae to digest.

Spirulina does not have roots, leaves, or stems as most herbs do. But spirulina does contain chlorophyll and performs photosynthesis. Spirulina also creates proteins and sugars as animals do.

The Aztecs of Mexico ate it as a staple food. They dried it and spread it on tortillas. Africans of the Sahara region also use dried spirulina with grains and vegetables. Around the world, spirulina is used as a food source for animals and humans.

Following are a few spirulina benefits. Spirulina enhances the immune system through the antioxidants it contains. Spirulina is highly nutritious and is an excellent source of chlorophyll, protein, vitamins, minerals, and amino acids. It contains twenty-six times the calcium that milk has. It also contains phosphorus, B12, and is a good source of iron. It is safe, has no side effects, and is easy to store. All these won it the name “Manna of the future.” It is used to treat anemia, diabetes, gastrointestinal disorders, glaucoma, cataracts, hepatitis, physical imbalances, and it aids in weight loss.

As an immune system builder, spirulina appears to increase production of interferons and interleukins, both anti-inflammatory chemicals. These may decrease or prevent some allergic responses and block the release of histamine during an allergic reaction. This in turn decreases histamine’s effects such as muscle contraction, blood vessel expansion, and stomach acid production.

The afore mentioned antioxidant and immune-enhancing properties in spirulina may help it fight cancer cells. It also helps to release a chemical in the body that attacks tumor cells. Spirulina also appears to block virus cells from entering into host cells. In tests several viruses, including HIV, have apparently been killed or damaged by spirulina.

NASA stated, “The Nutritional value of one kg spirulina is equivalent to 1,000 kgs of assorted fruits and vegetables.” In other words, spirulina is an exceptionally nutrient substance. Spirulina is made up of 85% protein, compared with 20% in beef. All the essential amino acids and most of the nonessential ones are found in Spirulina and, as noted above, it is extremely rich in vitamins and minerals.

You can purchase spirulina in tablets, capsules, and powder form. One tablespoon of spirulina powder is about 7 grams. Doses should be from one gram to ten grams a day. That is just about two teaspoons. For serious illnesses such as hepatitis four tsp per day are recommended. Consume as much as you want. It may be used as the primary source of protein. Some even like to make smoothies with Spirulina. Others just sprinkle it on their food like seasoning. Spirulina powder can be added to fruit or vegetable juices or to add nutrition to dishes. It is tasty in pasta, soups, salads, or mixed with yoghurt. Just remember this: spirulina is most nutritious uncooked.

Author Bio: The book, To Train Up A Child, addresses the apparent and easy method to educate our kids to be decent kids worthy of admiration from other people and stay a life of appropriate discipline and right choices.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: spirulina,spirulina health benefits,spirulina nutrition,spirulina vitamins