Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria (also known as blue-green algae) that grows in both freshwater and saltwater environments. Historically, spirulina was an important source of food for the Aztecs and other Mesoamericans until the 16th century. It was harvested from Lake Texcoco in Mexico, until the lake was drained for agricultural development. After that time, spirulina was forgotten as a food source for several centuries, until botanists began researching it again in the 1960s. But it wasn’t until the early 1990s – when NASA proposed spirulina as one of the primary foods to be cultivated by astronauts in space – that it was finally recognized as a nutrient-rich, energy-boosting, disease-fighting superfood.
Spirulina is the World’s Most Nutrient-Dense Food
Thanks to the attention it has received from NASA, World Health Organization, and other reputable institutions, spirulina has been identified as the most nutrient-dense food on the planet. One tablespoon of dried spirulina powder contains:
- 4 grams of protein (the quality of which is considered excellent, since it contains all of the essential amino acids the human body needs)
- 11% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of Vitamin B1
- 15% of the RDA of Vitamin B2
- 4% of the RDA of Vitamin B3
Spirulina also contains significant amounts of copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, and potassium, as well as small amounts of nearly every other nutrient the human body requires. The best part? As nutrient-rich as spirulina is, it only contains 20 calories per tablespoon.
Spirulina Antioxidant Effects
In the body, free radicals can wreak havoc on cells, causing oxidative damage and inflammation. This damage can lead to cancer and other chronic diseases. That’s why antioxidants are so important; they fight against those free radicals in the body and protect against oxidative damage and inflammation. In addition to being a nutrient-packed superfood, spirulina has also been studied for its antioxidant properties. That’s because the main active compound in spirulina is a pigment-protein complex called phycocyanin, which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
Spirulina Aids in Heavy Metal Detoxification
Heavy metals like arsenic, lead, mercury and cadmium are prevalent in the environment around the world. While normal levels of exposure to these metals is considered safe, high exposure can lead to heavy metal poisoning. When this happens, heavy metals accumulate in the soft tissues of the body in toxic amounts, and can lead to a variety of adverse health effects. Research studies have shown that spirulina has the ability to bind with these heavy metals in the body, and help flush them out.
Spirulina Enhances Weight Loss
Because of its protein-rich composition, spirulina has the ability to curb hunger, reduce cravings, and keep you feeling full for longer. It also helps maintain and build lean muscle mass, which in turn allows you to burn calories more efficiently. And because it’s a rich source of gamma linolenic acid, some researchers believe spirulina can help regulate blood sugar and insulin levels, which aids in fat loss.
Introducing: Organic Daily Greens Single Sips®
Get your daily fix of spirulina with new Organic Daily Greens Single Sips®. This flavorful tea contains a superfood blend of spirulina, chlorella, moringa, and matcha, as well as probiotic Ganeden BC30 (1 billion CFU’s) and prebioticagave inulin. We’ve also added organic lemon, mint, coconut and monk fruit, for a touch of refreshingly sweet flavor.
Instantly add a nutritious boost to your day with Organic Daily Greens Single Sips; just pour out a little water from a 16.9 oz bottle, add a Single Sips® packet, and shake well until blended. Then sip and enjoy!
