Spirulina was discovered by researchers studying an African tribe. The tribe was very poor and had limited access to fruits and vegetables and meats. However, they remained healthy due to the fact that they regularly consumed a dark algae that grew in the waters nearby. This algae, now know as spirulina was removed from the lake and dried regularly so that they could eat it. Spirulina helped this tribe to get the protein and nutrients needed in spite of a poor diet and limited resources.
Spirulina is a dark green algae that commonly grows in warm waters. It is very nutritious and in fact may be one of the world’s healthiest foods. This superfood contains high levels of protein, iron, calcium and beta carotene. Spirulina is packed with nutrition and is one of the most nutritionally dense foods available.
Most people don’t eat enough vegetables. Since spirulina contains concentrated nutrition, it is said that one small serving of spirulina contains the antioxidant power of 5 servings of fruits and vegetables. Spirulina has more antioxidants and phytonutrients than blueberries and spinach combined.
Spirulina is commonly harvested from lakes, rivers and ponds. Spirulina is then naturally dried after harvest. Drying the spirulina allows it to retain the majority of its natural nutritional value which can be lessened with heat. Spirulina is generally available in a powder or tablet form. It is easy to use and can be easily added to smoothies, drinks, yogurt and more. It has a deep green color. The powder form can be easily mixed into frosting, baked goods and other recipes in place of green food color. Since spirulina is so concentrated, the color can generally be imparted without much impact on the overall flavor of the dish. Many people choose to take spirulina tablets each day rather than integrating the powder into their diet. Optimal absorption of the spirulina occurs when the tablets are taken with food.
Spirulina has 23 times more iron than spinach.
Spirulina has more protein than tofu.
Spirulina has 3 times more calcium than milk by weight.
The high concentration of vitamins and antioxidants in spirulina make it a powerful and health promoting superfood. It has been shown to increase energy, support cellular and immune function, lower cholesterol and help with eye health. Many take spirulina as a natural alternative to a daily multivitamin. Users of spirulina commonly report an instant and noticeable energy boost. Since spirulina supports immune function, many increase their consumption of spirulina during times of illness in order to boost their ability to fight off infection and illness.
Spirulina is one of the most concentrated superfoods available. This nutrient dense algae has been used as a nutritional supplement for hundreds of years. It has been available commercially for the last 30 years. This superfood can be easily added to any diet through the use of the easy to take spirulina tablets that are commonly available. Just a few tablets each day may lead to better health. Spirulina is a great source of concentrated nutrition.
protein, iron, calcium and beta carotene. Spirulina is packed with nutrition and is one of the most nutritionally dense foods available.
