From the Ancient Aztecs to modern-day NASA Astronauts, Spirulina has been consumed and revered for its nutrient density and ability to promote a healthy brain and body. Because of its ability to provide vital nutrients like complete protein, b vitamins, and iron, spirulina is a favorite among non-meat eaters. In fact, it is so rich in nutrients per gram that it may be the most nutritious food on the planet!
Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and salt water. It is a type of cyanobacteria, which is a family of single-celled microbes that are often referred to as blue-green algae. This superfood was consumed by the ancient Aztecs and regained its popularity when NASA proposed that it could be grown in space for use by astronauts. Not only is spirulina a great plant-based source of protein, but this blue-green algae packs a few health and wellness benefits as well. No wonder it is one of the main ingredients in our Organic Superfood Greens!
Spirulina is an excellent source of many essential nutrients. One single tablespoon or 7g of dried spirulina powder contains 4g of complete protein, 11% RDA of vitamin B1, 15% RDA of vitamin B2, 4% RDA of vitamin B3, 21% RDA of copper and 11% RDA of iron. This along with the decent amounts of magnesium, potassium, manganese and small amounts of almost every other nutrient, makes spirulina a hidden gem for the fellow plant-based, vegan types out there.
While the proposed benefits of many superfoods have yet to be proven or studied, a number of evidence-based health benefits from consuming spirulina have been documented. Ranging from preventing deficiencies by filling your nutritional gaps to controlling blood sugar and improving muscular strength and endurance. One thing is for sure, this amazing algae is one of those rare superfoods that is true to its hype and then some!
Type 2 diabetes and blood sugar control are things that many people struggle with today. Some evidence suggests that spirulina may benefit people with type 2 diabetes, significantly reducing fasting blood sugar levels. Animal studies have linked this superfood to significantly lowering blood sugar levels. In some cases, it has even outperformed popular diabetes drugs, including Metformin. Human studies have also shown promising results when it comes to lowering blood sugar. In a two-month study including 25 people with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of spirulina per day led to an impressive reduction in blood sugar levels.
One of the major contributors to muscle fatigue is exercise-induced oxidative damage. Luckily, mother nature provides plant foods like spirulina that have antioxidant properties which can help athletes and physically active people minimize this damage. In two separate studies, spirulina enhanced endurance, significantly increasing the time it took for people to achieve muscle fatigue. This proves that this plant powerhouse can provide multiple exercise benefits including enhanced endurance and increase strength.
These are just a few of the many benefits this blue-green algae brings to the table. All from a plant that is easy to add to your diet. Whether you buy the powder at your local health store and mix it into a shake it yourself, or find the ease and convenience of a supplement like our Organic Superfood Greens that has the benefits of spirulina in a tasty green juice, without the hassle trying to come up with your own way to make algae taste good!
