When it comes to health foods and supplements, you would be extremely hard-pressed to find a healthier and more beneficial food/supplement than that of Spirulina. Spirulina is a form of blue-green algae that has been consumed for nutritional purposes since the times of the ancient Aztecs. Spirulina grows extremely well in bodies of water found in subtropical and tropical climates. However, it can now be grown naturally all over the world, and for very good reason too. Spirulina is one of the most nutrient dense foods on the planet, and it possesses numerous health and nutritional benefits that many of us would never have imagined. It is naturally grown and can be naturally dried and powdered, where it can be mixed with beverages or used in foods and recipes to greatly increase the nutrient content. Here we’ll be taking a look at a few health and nutritional benefits of spirulina.
It contains anti-inflammatory properties
One of the main benefits of spirulina is the fact that it has been found to possess anti-inflammatory properties. The reason for this is that it is a great source of GLA or Gamma Linoleic Acid, which has been found to greatly reduce inflammation within the human body. For this reason, spirulina can help reduce conditions such as arthritis, PMS, headaches, trapped nerves, tissue damage, and much more besides that.
It boosts the immune system
As spirulina is jam-packed full of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, it has been found to greatly improve the immune system in the human body, which thrives upon all of these nutrients. The healthier and more efficient the immune system becomes, the less likely we will be to suffer from illness and disease, and if we do, we will be much more likely to recover at a much faster rate.
It boosts metabolism and promotes lean muscle growth
Spirulina is actually a fantastic source of plant-based protein making it a firm favourite amongst vegan and vegetarian bodybuilders and athletes. The protein found in this plant has a thermic effect, which means that the body burns more calories than usual simply by digesting it and breaking it down. Protein is also essential for muscle growth and repair, and as spirulina is a great source of protein, it has been found to help promote lean muscle growth and recovery via protein synthesis.
It’s great for detoxification
Every day we’re exposed to chemicals and toxins that can damage our health and even put our lives in danger. They’re in the products we use, the foods we eat, the beverages we drink, and even in the air we breathe in some places. Ridding our bodies of these toxins then, is essential, and spirulina is able to do just that. Spirulina is rich in chlorophyll which is a natural and potent detoxifying agent. Spirulina can help to cleanse the body and rid it of dangers toxins and free-radicals, before they have chance to do any lasting damage. It helps to keep the kidneys and the liver healthier and stronger, and helps to drastically flush harmful toxins from the body.
