Spirulina is a food like no other. It’s one of most nutrient-dense foods in the world and can strengthen, nourish and support your body. Although it was used by the Aztecs thousands of years ago to boost their stamina it’s only been recently become popular as a supplement in the modern, western world.
What is spirulina?
Spirulina is a microscopic blue-green cyanobacteria (algae) which comes in two varieties: arthrospira platensis and arthrospira maxima. It’s grown in purpose-built freshwater pools in tropical climes but has existed on earth since the very beginning of time, turning CO2 into oxygen.
A hardy plant that thrives at a pH of 8.5 and a temperature of 30 °C, it can be farmed without chemical pesticides. The process of turning the algae into a powder involves spirulina being harvested from the freshwater pools once it reaches maturity. It’s strained out using special screens, washed several times and then dried out. Nothing is added and nothing is taken away.
Why is it good for our bodies?
Spirulina is jam-packed with protein, good fats, vitamins and minerals including vitamin B12, calcium, magnesium and iron. It can give you a great energy boost, making it ideal first thing in the morning or just before a work out. It’s also suitable for vegetarians and vegans too.
“It has helped to revitalise me every morning, ready for the day ahead.” Fay238, 5/5 stars
Spirulina contains plant enzymes which are thought to help support the body’s functions, including cognitive activity, the heart, the nervous system and the distribution of oxygen. It’s so nutritious that NASA and the European Space Agency have conducted studies to see if it could be used as a food source for their astronauts on long missions.
“It helps me to be active at work and recover from my training” myChallenge, 4/5 stars
Supercharge your food
Spirulina is a great way to invigorate your daily diet. In its powdered form it can be added to a variety of dishes, including smoothies, soups, pasta and popcorn. And the best thing is, you only need a small amount to benefit from all the nutrients. With spirulina, a little definitely does go a long way.
Handpicked content: 10 easy ways to supercharge your food with spirulina
Source
www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2907180/
