What is Spirulina?
Spirulina is a type of dietary supplement and considered to be a superfood. Spirulina comes from a sort of blue-green colored algae that is packed with antioxidants and vitamins that have been scientifically proven to be beneficial to the body.
The Benefits of Spirulina
Spirulina has anti-inflammatory properties that can help combat against oxidative cell damage, regulate cholesterol levels, can assist in lowering chronic high blood pressure, and may even contain anti-cancer properties, just to name a few benefits.
It can be found in the forms of powders, pills, or liquid supplements. Recently, people have been adding it to their smoothies and juices, because the flavor is so mild. Consistently incorporating doses of spirulina into your daily routine can result in several noticeable health benefits:
- Eye Health: less damage to the retina and more protection
- Oral Health: preventing and treating gum disease
- Weight Loss
- Improved Gut Health
- Maintaining Blood Sugar and Cholesterol Levels
- Boosting Metabolism
- Reducing Nasal Inflammation from Allergies
Spirulina and Brain Health
A study published in 2021 tested the link between intake of spirulina microalgae and brain health. The study investigated the claims and past evidence that spirulina possessed antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and neuroprotective mechanisms. It was claimed that spirulina can help in reducing mental fatigue, protect the wall of brain vessels from damages, and regulate internal pressure, making people less prone to cerebrovascular disease. It was also said to increase motor language, and cognitive skills. Overall, it was concluded that incorporating spirulina supplementation into one’s routine can support normal brain function and developmental aspects of the nervous system. Researchers found that this can be especially helpful for those who reside in third world countries and are malnourished, more importantly beneficial for children, because their brains are still in development.
Spirulina and Postmenopause
Another study from 2020 highlighted benefits of spirulina supplementation for postmenopausal women. Specifically, the researchers highlighted metabolic syndrome/disorders. The postmenopause stage brings about higher waist circumference, higher blood pressure, hyperglycemia, and therefore, higher risk of cardiovascular disease. Overall, all clinical trials implicated that spirulina is beneficial in regulating the potential symptoms of metabolic syndrome. There is no imminent harm in testing it out. This is a fairly new phenomenon, and therefore, more studies need to be done. Researchers still want to find the optimal dose, period of administration, etc. In addition, researchers want to further elevate the study by bringing in human clinical trials, rather than using animals, like rats.
Adding Spirulina to your Diet
Bringing spirulina into your daily routines is definitely worth a shot! It is fairly inexpensive and accessible and is a beginner-friendly supplement, due to its vibrant color and extremely mild taste. The worst case scenario in trying it is that you do not observe any results, but thankfully, there is no harm that can be done. Stop by your local organic grocer today and pick up your own bottle!
It’s Fetch is a community that provides a safe space for members to discuss health and wellness topics. We provide access to archived health related content, note the date of last review or update on all articles. No content shared, regardless of date should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
-Written by Kaila An
Sources:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324027
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina#TOC_TITLE_HDR_2
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8224803/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5274660/
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7767256/
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