by Erika Albertini, PT, DPT August 02, 2024 4 min read
If you’ve been browsing health food stores or diving into wellness blogs, you’ve likely encountered the term Spirulina. This vibrant blue-green algae has been touted as a superfood for good reason! Let’s dive into what Spirulina can do for your body and why it might be a fantastic addition to your diet.
Spirulina is an impressive 60-70% protein, making it one of the most protein-dense plant sources available. A single tablespoon of dried Spirulina powder contains 4 grams of protein, which makes it an excellent option for vegetarians, vegans, or anyone looking to boost their protein intake without relying heavily on meat or dairy.
Beyond its protein content, Spirulina is packed with a range of essential nutrients:[One tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina powder]
Thiamin (Vitamin B1): 14% of the Daily Value (DV)
Riboflavin (Vitamin B2): 20% of the DV
Niacin (Vitamin B3): 6% of the DV
Copper: 47% of the DV
Iron: 11% of the DV
Small amounts of magnesium, potassium, and manganese
Only 20 calories and less than 2 grams of carbohydrates
Omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids
These nutrients are crucial for maintaining healthy cellular function, energy production, and overall vitality.
The main active compound in Spirulina is phycocyanin, which gives it its unique blue color. Phycocyanin has impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, helping fight oxidative stress and inflammation. This can aid in protecting cells from damage and reducing the risk of chronic diseases (Forbes Health, 2024).
Spirulina may help improve your cholesterol profile by:
Lowering total cholesterol
Reducing LDL (bad) cholesterol
Decreasing triglycerides
Increasing HDL (good) cholesterol
These factors contribute to heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, making Spirulina a heart-friendly addition to your diet (Healthline, 2024).
Studies suggest that Spirulina can significantly benefit brain health. Its consumption has been linked to improved cognitive function and protection against neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. This is attributed to its high antioxidant content, which helps reduce oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain (Trotta et al., 2022).
Spirulina’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties extend to the immune system as well. It can enhance immune function, helping the body fend off infections and recover more efficiently from illnesses and intense exercise. This makes it a popular choice among athletes and fitness enthusiasts looking to maintain their health and performance (Finamore et al., 2017).
The iron content in Spirulina supports red blood cell production and helps prevent anemia. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with iron deficiency or those at risk of anemia, such as pregnant women and vegetarians (Organic Facts, 2024).
Spirulina's high protein content and essential amino acids contribute to muscle growth, strength, and recovery, making it an excellent supplement for those looking to enhance their physical performance and recovery post-exercise (Examine, 2024). Spirulina is particularly beneficial for athletes and those engaging in regular physical activity (Lafarga et al., 2020).
Spirulina helps contribute to muscle growth…yes, please!
Some studies suggest Spirulina may help regulate blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for individuals with diabetes. It can enhance insulin sensitivity and help maintain stable blood glucose levels (Live Science, 2024).
So, how can you enjoy the benefits of Spirulina? Here are some easy and delicious ways to add this superfood to your diet:
Super Greens Powders: One of the most convenient ways to consume Spirulina is through super greens powders. These blends often combine Spirulina with other nutrient-dense greens, providing a comprehensive boost of vitamins and minerals. Rewind Greens offers a great-tasting super greens powder that makes getting your daily dose of Spirulina easy and enjoyable. Simply mix a scoop into your water, smoothie, or juice for a quick nutrient fix. Find out more about what’s in Rewind Greens super greens here.
Green Juice: Adding Spirulina to your green juice is another excellent option. It blends well with ingredients like spinach, kale, and apples, enhancing the nutritional profile of your drink.
Smoothies: A spoonful of Spirulina powder can be easily blended into your morning smoothie, providing a vibrant color and a significant nutritional kick.
Capsules and Tablets: For those who prefer to avoid dealing with the taste or color of Spirulina powder, capsules and tablets are a convenient alternative. They offer all the benefits of Spirulina in a hassle-free form.
Rewind Greens super greens is a great tasting way to get your Spirulina daily!
Lafarga T, Fernández-Sevilla JM, González-López C, Acién-Fernández FG. Spirulina for the food and functional food industries. Food Res Int. 2020 Nov 1;137.
Finkel Z V., Follows MJ, Liefer JD, Brown CM, Benner I, Irwin AJ. Phylogenetic Diversity in the Macromolecular Composition of Microalgae. PLoS One. 2016 May 1;11(5).
Trotta T, Porro C, Cianciulli A, Panaro MA. Beneficial Effects of Spirulina Consumption on Brain Health. Nutrients. 2022 Feb 1;14(3).
Finamore A, Palmery M, Bensehaila S, Peluso I. Antioxidant, Immunomodulating, and Microbial-Modulating Activities of the Sustainable and Ecofriendly Spirulina. Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2017;2017.
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