Spirulina is one of the world’s most popular dietary supplements. These blue-green algae that grow in freshwater lakes or ponds happens to be one of the most nutrient dense foods in the whole world. Not only has it been recognized by the World Health Organization as a way to treat children suffering from malnutrition, it also benefits digestive and heart health. It is a powerful antioxidant that also has anti-inflammatory properties. In fact, it is even used by NASA as a dietary supplement for astronauts. When astronauts are serving on their space missions, it is important to ensure their immune symptoms remain strong and in proper working order. Since this is one of the benefits of spirulina, it is clear to see why NASA included it to manage their astronaut’s health. Read on to learn more about the benefits of spirulina.
Spirulina in Traditional Chinese Medicine
Spirulina, also known as Lan Zao, has been used in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) for ages. It is commonly used to tonify, or bring energy to, the spleen, kidneys, blood, yin, Qi, and jing.
It aids the body in eliminating toxins. When ingested, it enters the liver and beings to detoxify both the liver and the kidneys. Spirulina is utilized as a cooling supplement that is often used to clear heat. Practitioners of TCM use spirulina to strengthen the lungs, calm allergies, and promote digestion.
High in Nutrients: Spirulina is a micronutrient powerhouse. It contains many of the B complex vitamins including B6 and Niacin, copper, iron, and beta-carotene and so on. It is wildly popular in the Vegan community as it is one of the only non-animal sources of the essential vitamin B12.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties: Spirulina contains the protein compound Phycocyanin. This powerful antioxidant works by scavenging the body of free radicals. Due to its ability to inhibits the release of histamine from mast cells, it also acts as an anti-inflammatory. This can help relieve pain and improve movement.
Lowers “Bad” Cholesterol:
Low-density lipoproteins, or LDL, are more commonly known as the “bad” cholesterol. This is as opposed to high-density lipoproteins, or HDL, which are referred to as the “good” cholesterol. A 2011 study demonstrated that one of the benefits of spirulina is its ability to lower LDL as well as triglycerides. This results in a reduction in total cholesterol which is considered a risk factor in cardiovascular disease.
Improves Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis:
Rhinitis is more well-known as the common cold or seasonal allergies. The University of California at Davis conducted a study to demonstrate various spirulina benefits in suffers of rhinitis. Their research showed that spirulina can suppress the cell differentiation that is known to cause rhinitis.
May Reduce Blood Pressure:
Spirulina has been shown to reduce hypertension, which is more commonly known as high blood pressure. Researchers found in a 2017 study that using peptides that have been purified by Spirulina resulted in a lowering the blood pressure in hypertensive rats. As with high cholesterol, high blood pressure is also a risk factor for heart disease.
Aids in Digestion:
Another one of the benefits of spirulina is that it can aid in digestion. French scientists used piglets as their test subjects to confirm how spirulina could aid in their weaning. Their study showed that adding spirulina to the diet of piglets helped to reduce inflammation and diarrhea.
Treatment of Iron Deficiency:
Iron deficiency is also referred to as anemia. This is a common deficiency amongst senior citizens. A study of 40 volunteers over the age of 50 were given spirulina as a supplement and showed improvement in their iron levels. Due to its safety as a supplement, it is recommended as an option to improve iron deficiency anemia symptoms.
Improve Endurance:
Spirulina’s ability to increase iron levels in the blood may be connected to its ability to improve endurance. It has been shown not only to reduce body mass index, but it increases the body’s ability to uptake oxygen also known as VO2max. The reduction in body mass index has the added benefit of improving heart health and reducing risk of cardiovascular disease. It is also popular amongst endurance athletes who want to take advantage of the many spirulina benefits.
How to Take Spirulina
Spirulina comes in a variety of forms, so there are a number of options when it comes to taking it. It can be purchased as a powder which can then be blended into smoothies or mixed with water. There are also spirulina juices on the market as well. In addition to liquids, it can easily be found in pill or tablet form. It is widely available at health food stores, herbal shops, and online. When making a purchase of spirulina, be sure to thoroughly review the label to be sure that no additives have been included with the product.
As for dosage, there is no recommended daily allowance or limit that has been set for spirulina. Some studies allowed patients to take anywhere from four to eight grams per day. The correct dosage may vary from person to person, so you may want to consider speaking with an expert before supplementing with spirulina. Most products on the market today recommend a serving size of about one teaspoon which is approximately 3.5 grams.
Conclusions on the Benefits of Spirulina
Given that it has been proven safe in many patients including senior citizens, the many spirulina benefits may include aiding you in reducing your cholesterol, improving iron deficiency anemia, or even improving your digestive health. It has been a trusted supplement in traditional Chinese medicine for ages. If you are hoping to achieve some of the benefits of spirulina, there are many options available for purchase online.
Spirulina
Spirulina ( Blue-Green Algae, Micro-algae ) is a superfood that can be added to your daily routine for its nutritional content and health benefits. Spirulina has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, as well as the ability to help regulate the immune system. GinSen’s Spirulina tablets offer benefits such as supporting weight management goals, reducing blood lipid levels, lowering blood sugar levels naturally.
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* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. We can’t guarantee the treatment result, as the symptoms of conditions are unpredictable and vary greatly from person to person. The treatment length and recovery time also varies for individual. Please visit our clinics website: GinSen where a specialists will discuss your care and provide a consultation, and the treatment will be designed to meet your individual needs.
