What Is Spirulina And Its Benefits As Health Booster
A blue-green alga belonging to the genus Arthrospira is Spirulina (“arthro” roughly meaning “joint,” and “spira” meaning “spiral”). Spirulina has been used for generations by the Aztecs of Mexico and the residents of the Lake Chad region of Africa. The majority of the time, ponds or lakes are used to grow Spirulina. You will be surprised when you learn about Spirulina benefits for men, which we will discuss later in the article.
Fat-soluble vitamins (A, E, and K), fatty acids (DHA, EPA), beta carotene, and minerals are all present in Spirulina. It also contains protein, but some of the essential amino acids your body needs to function properly aren’t present in sufficient amounts (unless you have a medical condition where you need to avoid specific amino acids, like phenylketonuria or “PKU”). Spirulina may be regarded as a vegan protein source because it is made by bacteria (cyanobacteria).
This article examines Spirulina’s potential applications in further detail and the health benefits of Spirulina.
Historical use of Spirulina
Up to the 16th century, the Aztecs and other Mesoamericans relied on Spirulina as a food source. One of Cortés’ soldiers recounted how it was harvested from Mexico’s Lake Texcoco and marketed as cakes. Tecuitlatl was the Aztec term for it.
French researchers discovered Spirulina in large quantities at Lake Texcoco in the 1960s. Still, no mention of the Aztecs using it as a staple food source beyond the 16th century was made, likely due to the draining of the nearby lakes for farming and urban development.
Tecuitlatl was first discovered in 1520, but it wasn’t discussed again until 1940 when Belgian phycologist Pierre Dangeard brought up a cake called dihe that was eaten by the Kanembu tribe in the African country of Chad, which harvests it from Lake Chad. Dangeard examined the “dihe” samples and discovered that it was a dried purée of the lake’s spring blue-green algae. The “dihe” is both sold in marketplaces and used to produce meal broths. In addition, around Lake Chad, small lakes and ponds are used to harvest Spirulina.
The botanist Jean Leonard researched algae blooms in a factory that produces sodium hydroxide after confirming in 1964 and 1965 that “dihe” is composed of Spirulina. As a result, to start large-scale production in the 1970s, the first organized and thorough study of Spirulina’s physiology and growth requirements was conducted.
Nutritional Value of Spirulina
Cyanobacteria can harness the energy of sunlight through a process known as photosynthesis, much like plants can.
In ancient times Aztecs used to consume Spirulina, but it gained popularity after NASA suggested that astronauts could produce it in space.
Spirulina is typically taken in quantities of 1-3 grams per day. However, up to 10 grams have been used successfully.
This microscopic alga is nutrient-rich. Seven grams of dried Spirulina powder per tablespoon contain:
- 4 grams of protein
- Thiamine, vitamin B1, 11% of the RDA
- Riboflavin, vitamin B2: 15% of the RDA
- Niacin, vitamin B3, at 4% of the RDA
- 21% of the RDA is for copper.
- 11% of the RDA for iron
- Additionally, it has modest levels of nearly every other nutrient you require and good amounts of magnesium, potassium, and manganese.
The same quantity also only contains 20 calories and 1.7 grams of carbohydrates that can be digested.
Spirulina might be the single most nutrient-dense food in the world, gram for gram.
A tablespoon (7 grams) of Spirulina has only a modest quantity of fat, about 1 gram, with an estimated 1.5:1.0 ratio of omega-6 to omega-3 fatty acids.
Spirulina is thought to have exceptional protein quality, on par with eggs. In addition, it provides all of the necessary essential amino acids.
Health Benefits of Spirulina
If we were to discuss Spirulina’s health benefits, a never-ending list would be created. There are way too many benefits associated with Spirulina, and consuming it on a daily basis could be beneficial for both men and women. But discussing them all in just one would be a total injustice to this superfood; hence, let’s discuss the benefits by dividing them into different categories.
Spirulina benefits for hair
Spirulina benefits for hair are countless, but some benefits are so excruciating that they make Spirulina an essential element for the hair.
So, why waste any more time? Let’s discuss those benefits.
- Spirulina contains 70% protein, fatty acids, and iron, which are nutrients that help build hair.
- Aging results from oxidative stress, which is caused by an imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body.
- Spirulina is rich in antioxidants, which prevent oxidative stress and maintain normal blood sugar levels, both of which can benefit those who are experiencing hair loss.
- Spirulina is excellent at tackling dandruff thanks to its antibacterial properties and zinc concentration.
- The hygroscopic chemicals in microalgae transport water molecules from the environment to the scalp and skin, moisturizing and hydrating it.
- Sebum production is controlled by the proteins, polysaccharides, and fibers in Spirulina, which are also natural polymers that can form a barrier on the scalp and hydrate it, both of which can reduce sebum production.
- Reduces the onset of gray/white hair: Spirulina’s high iron and amino acid content and pigments can help cover up those bothersome grays.
- Supports glossy, lustrous hair: Spiriulina’s antioxidant components might aid in making your hair more glossy, robust, and shiny.
Spirulina benefits for skin
Spirulina indeed has antibacterial and anti-inflammatory properties that may aid with skin disorders, including acne and eczema, and these are only a few Spirulina benefits for the skin. Let’s check out what all benefits an individual can achieve for his skin once he starts consuming Spirulina daily.
Spirulina Boosts Collagen Formation:
According to studies, Spirulina consumption may enhance the number of growth factors in dermal fibroblast cells, which are the cells that make collagen. Increasing collagen production gives the skin a tighter, more solid appearance. Spirulina consumption can delay the onset of age-related changes and make them less obvious.
Spirulina Helps The Skin To Be More Toned:
Vitamins A and E, which are well-known components in skincare products because of their moisturizing and antioxidant benefits, are abundant in Spirulina. As a result, your skin might appear less fatigued and more toned if you include Spirulina in your diet. In addition, SpirulinaSpirulina aids in the removal of metabolic waste from cells, which also helps with loose skin.
Spirulina Is A Remedy For Dark Circles:
Fortunately, Spirulina may be able to assist you in controlling your dark circles, which are an unavoidable side effect of overall exhaustion. In addition, dark circles and dry eye problems can be successfully treated with Spirulina’s detoxifying properties.
Spirulina Has Anti-Aging Effects:
Spirulina’s antioxidant concentration allows it to regulate and prevent aging symptoms. This is because Spirulina inhibits oxidative damage and eliminates free radicals, as was already explained. And as you are surely aware, exposure to free radicals is one of the main causes of aging symptoms, including wrinkles and fine lines.
Additionally, glycine and proline, two important amino acids our bodies do not naturally produce, are abundant in Spirulina. These amino acids support the synthesis of collagen and maintain the tightness of the skin.
Spirulina Can Prevent Different Skin Conditions:
According to studies, Spirulina consumption on a regular basis may reduce your risk of developing skin infections like candida. Additionally, eczema and psoriasis may be prevented and treated by the antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory qualities of Spirulina.
Spirulina benefits for men:
The term “superfoods” has been used in the health business for many years. Superfoods are nutrient-dense foods regarded as very good for your health.
More nutritious than kale or broccoli, this blue-green alga has a stronger resume. So let’s check out Spirulina benefits for men, yes specifically for men, cause our kings deserve only the best.
Packed with nutrients:
To put it simply, Spirulina is a concentrated source of important vitamins and minerals. Seven grams in a tablespoon equals:
- A healthy 4 grams of protein (with all essential amino acids)
- Thiamine, vitamin B1: 11% of the RDA
- 15% of your RDA for vitamin B2 (riboflavin)
- Niacin, vitamin B3, provides 4% of the RDA.
- 21% of your RDA is copper.
- 11% of your RDA is iron.
In addition, it has lower levels of pretty much every other mineral you require, including 0.133 mg of manganese, 95 mg of potassium, and 14 mg of magnesium.
The body uses these minerals for a variety of purposes, including everything from enhancing your energy and immune system to promoting the generation of sperm and sex hormones.
Reduces Hypertension:
High blood pressure, often known as hypertension, seriously damages the body and is the root cause of erectile dysfunction, chronic renal disease, heart attacks, strokes, and damaged arteries.
According to studies, those with hypertension who consume 4.5g of Spirulina daily can drop their blood pressure to normal ranges.
Nitric oxide, a chemical that facilitates vasodilation, is thought to have increased production due to this reduction (relaxed and dilated blood vessels).
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory:
Because they are unstable and extremely reactive, free radicals pose a risk to the body.
They rob electrons from other molecules in our cells including proteins, lipids, and DNA, rendering those molecules unstable and extremely reactive and setting off a chain reaction.
Antioxidants, which are tiny chemicals that prevent free radicals from self-destructing and stabilize them, are abundant in Spirulina and protect your cells from oxidative damage.
Spirulina’s blue-green hue is a result of the active component phycocyanin. Additionally, it prevents the synthesis of chemicals that signal inflammation.
Spirulina will assist in easing the symptoms of an inflamed prostate if you have to get up multiple times at night to urinate.
Lowers Blood Sugar:
In animal tests, Spirulina was found to decrease blood sugar more effectively than the common diabetic medication Metformin. However, more investigation is required to show how Spirulina functions.
There is some evidence to support the use of Spirulina in humans as well.
Twenty-five persons with type 2 diabetes participated in brief research in which they received 2g of Spirulina daily.
The measurements revealed that HbA1c, a marker for long-term blood sugar levels, had decreased by 1%.
More research is required, although studies have suggested that a 1% reduction can reduce the chance of death from the disease by as much as 21%.
Diabetes is a typical antecedent to erectile dysfunction. Therefore a lower chance of type 2 diabetes also means a lower risk of erectile dysfunction.
Cancer Prevention:
There is evidence that Spirulina may lessen the risk of developing cancer and the size of tumors.
Research on its effects on oral cancer is extensive.
In one study, 87 Indians with oral precancerous tumors were examined. Lesions vanished in 45% of subjects who consumed 1 gram of Spirulina daily for a year.
Over half experienced a recurrence of the lesions for a year after stopping the Spirulina.
Spirulina benefits for women
Everything you need for a healthy existence is concentrated in Spirulina. Spirulina benefits for women include:
Inherently anti-aging:
Spirulina is abundant in antioxidants, which aid in the body’s detoxification of pollutants and the maintenance of skin radiance. Additionally, it is packed with vitamin E, which promotes healthy hair and nail growth and reduces hair loss. Spirulina’s GLA contains collagen, which keeps skin taut and reduces wrinkles and dark circles.
Reduces hormonal imbalances:
Spirulina is a naturally high source of iodine because it grows in saltwater. Iodine promotes the appropriate hormone release, which helps to lessen mood swings, depression, fatigue, and unexpected weight gain.
Helps regulate PMS:
Spirulina has detoxifying capabilities. Thus consuming it during PMS aids in the removal of toxins from the female reproductive system. Spirulina also aids in the treatment of PMS cramps.
Great for Menopause:
Hot flashes and mood swings characterize the stages of Menopause. Spirulina is a calming and soothing substance that aids in having a calmer yet more active day.
Spirulina contains iron and zinc, which help battle anemia, which is frequent in women in their 20s and promotes the growth of stronger nails. Vitamin E and B12 encourage the growth of hair and nails. In addition, Spirulina’s GLA (GAMMA LINOLENIC ACID) contributes to skin and hair suppleness without causing dry skin.
Spirulina is the best health supplement available for all ladies due to the abovementioned factors.
Boosts Brain Health:
Spirulina helps reduce brain inflammation. As a result, it may be a successful adjunct therapy for Parkinson’s disease, brought on by swelling and inflammation of the brain. In addition, the blue-green algae helps lessen oxidative stress in the brain, which can help prevent memory loss.
It has also been discovered that Spirulina increases neuronal density by stimulating the growth of new neurons (the process is called neurogenesis). According to some reports, it may also help in Alzheimer’s treatment.
How to Consume Spirulina
Thanks to Skytag Bioteq, you don’t have to wander around in the wild in order to get your hands on Spirulina. Just visit their website and order them online to get them delivered to your home within a few days. This Spirulina supplement is delivered in tablet form. Hence, there is no hustle involved in making them consumable (like earlier, a lot of processing was required to be done to the Spirulina before it could even be considered consumable). But their ease of consumption does not mean that Skytag’s Pure & Organic Spirulina compromises any nutritional value of the Spirulina.
Since they are in tablet form, an individual can easily consume them with cold water. However, this element is tasteless and odorless, so some people might find it hard to consume them directly. But the good news is, cold water is not the only way to consume these wondrous tablets; crush and shake them up with your shakes, or blend them in your smoothies, and boom, you have received all the benefits of Spirulina without even realizing it. Not a huge fan of smoothies, no worries, powder them up and mix them in your oatmeal or any other meal you consume throughout the day.
Just make sure not to consume these tablets with sodas, fizzy drinks, or alcohol, as then you might experience some Spirulina side effects, like a bloated stomach, headache, etc. However, these side effects are minor, and they are almost negligible, considering their benefits. But, if consumed in the recommended ways, even these side effects won’t be experienced by an individual.
Conclusion
Spirulina is a particularly beneficial cyanobacteria species, also known as blue-green algae.
It might raise your blood lipid levels, prevent oxidation, lower blood pressure, and enhance blood sugar levels.
Spirulina is part of the few superfoods group deserving of the moniker, though additional research is required before any firm conclusions can be drawn.
Besides boosting the immune system, it also enhances the condition of your heart and brain. In addition, its abundance of antioxidants is proven to help treat diabetes and cancer. Furthermore, the primary plant ingredient in Spirulina, phycocyanin, is well known for its anti-inflammatory and anti-infective properties.
If you also want to step into the world of healthy organic life. In that case, you can easily order Spirulina tablets online from the official website of Skytag Bioteq, and simply relax on the sofa, while they take care of all the delivery processes.
About Post Author
