I'm sure that you probably have heard of spirulina and it's benefits, even if you're not a 'superfood health nut' like me. But, what is the most beneficial one and what to avoid?
You might have gathered by now, that I'm very conscious of my 'diet' (I actually don't like the word diet.., sounds like I'm on a diet. I don't do diets, I do a lifestyle) purely, because of the huge respect towards my physical body and myself. You see, there was a time when I was rather unwell for a few years and it also took me for some years to reach a state of health and wellbeing.
I'm still on that road and have not looked back. I'm totally dedicated to keeping myself well, vibrant and healthy and I also hope, that what I share here will benefit and motivate someone!
My rule of thumb pretty much is that I only eat foods that are nutritious. That's it. Ok ok, I will clarify. No junk/ processed food, no gunk, no processed/ white sugar, no gluten, and no dairy. I may sometimes eat something out of my guidelines, but then I certainly don't feel great. So, why eat then, eh? But, enough. This post isn't about me, it's about the aaaamazing spirulina.
"Spirulina is the most nutrient-dense food on our planet"
And, as I like to keep things short and informative, my summary as follows:
- Spirulina is an ancient form of blue-green microalgae; able to grow in both fresh and saltwater; is consumed by humans and other animals; unlike many other plants, spirulina is largely self-sufficient survivor.
- Historians discovered references to spirulina as a food source for the Aztecs right up until the 16th century. Though it took a long time before it was discovered by botanist Jean Léonard during his travels through Africa and in 1966, Leonard started conducting the first scientific study of spirulina (reference).
- Research (here + here ) shows that spirulina has immense health-promoting potential, e.g. antioxidant and inflammation-fighting properties, as well as regulates the immune system. Spirulina has also shown been effective in battling against malnutrition in anemic children and mothers (here).
More Benefits:
- Detoxes heavy metals, eliminates candida, may prevent cancer, lowers blood pressure, supports endocrine and central nervous system, reduces cholesterol, boosts energy levels, improves gut health, manages blood sugar, may prevent heart disease, boosts metabolism, reduces allergy symptoms, helps losing weight and supports mental health.
Contains:
- Protein (makes up about 60 to 70 percent of it's dry weight), aminoacids, significant amounts of Calcium, Iron, Magnesium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Folate, Zink, Vitamin B's, A, K and vitamin C.
Ensure your spirulina is pure, clean and safe and only buy Certified Organic spirulina to ensure it is cultivated without controversial fertilizers!
So What to Avoid:
- Chinese spirulina products have been found to be contaminated with lead, mercury and arsenic. Also, the products are produced by highly industrialized methods.
- Japanese spirulina may have high radiation levels due to the nuclear disaster in Fukushima in 2011. So, check exactly where any Japanese spirulina you’re considering to buy is grown. Any products from this sensitive area need valid radiation testing certificates.
- Surprisingly, natural lakes, because of a risk of contamination from heavy metals. Therefore, just be cautious, as wild growing conditions such as natural lakes cannot be controlled as it is impossible to know the spirulina is free from heavy metals, pollution and bacteria.
The Best one?
- It is well known that Hawaiian is the only spirulina in the world that adds pure, mineral-rich, deep ocean water from 2000 feet below the Pacific containing a unique array of 94 trace elements. Hawaii obviously has an ideal climate and location, eh? For someone like myself, living in Finland, it's February now... my thoughts ran wildly to Hawaii.. oh my...! You don't get the sun from the daily spirulina dose, you get me? Hehheee.
Anyway, back to the climate. For example, Kona, Hawaii, is the sunniest coastal location in the United States, providing perfect year-round temperatures and a 12-month growing season.
And for more than 25,000 years -- 10,000 generations -- Hawaiian spirulina has been adapting to the intense Hawaiian sun. Perfect conditions for growing a distinctive carotene-, mixed carotenoids-, enzyme- and antioxidant-rich spirulina.
This means you are getting the richest and most beneficial form of spirulina available!
If you cannot get Hawaiian spirulina, just make sure that what you buy IS:
Herbicide- and pesticides Free, Organic, No GMOs, No Additives, No Preservatives, No Fillers, No Artificial Colors, No Flavor and Non Irradiated (= have undergone a process of ionized radiation in order to increase shelf life and kill any possible bacteria existing on the herb or spice).
You might want to avoid using spirulina altogether:
1. If you are allergic to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables.
2. If you have a thyroid condition, an autoimmune disorder, gout, kidney stones, phenylketonuria (PKU), or are pregnant or nursing. Always check with your healthcare provider before consuming spirulina.
Dosage:
- Generally, there is not enough scientific data yet to provide a recommended dose of spirulina. Various doses of spirulina have been used in research and it is 1-8 g per day of spirulina, which has been shown to have some effect.
For example, this study examines the benefits of spirulina for high cholesterol, doses of 1-8 grams daily for four weeks to six months.
- I personally started (years ago) with half a teaspoonful per day and currently, my dosage is somewhere between 2 teaspoons- 2 tablespoons.
I have to say, I just LOVE spirulina! The health benefits are beyond amazing and I use it in protein shakes and/or smoothies, in baking, soups, salads, etc. The possibilities are endless.
IF you hate the taste, you can always buy capsules or pills. But truuuust me, if you stick to using it regularly you will get used to the taste in a few weeks and start actually loving it. That's a promise!
I hope this was useful and have a wonderful day or eve!
Much luuurve,
Pia
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