Spirulina

What is Spirulina?

Spirulina, a microscopic blue-green algae thriving in freshwater, boasts a remarkable history spanning over 3 billion years. Under a microscope, it reveals itself as slender, spiral threads, measuring about half a millimetre. Its resilience is unparalleled, thriving in conditions of intense sunlight, pristine water, and unpolluted air.

Historically, spirulina has been a dietary staple, notably in Mexico City, serving as a primary protein source for over 5,000 years. Today, its popularity spans the globe, with the Far East, particularly Japan, emerging as the largest consumer.

Renowned for its exceptional nutritional profile, spirulina is hailed as one of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet. Its accolades extend to space exploration, with NASA incorporating spirulina into astronauts' diets. Notably, the 1974 United Nations World Food Conference hailed spirulina as "the most ideal food for mankind."

Recognising its potential, global organisations such as the World Health Organisation affirm spirulina's safety and suitability, even for children. The United Nations urges governments and inter-governmental bodies to re-evaluate spirulina's potential for addressing food security needs and aiding in emergency response efforts abroad.

What's in Spirulina?

Spirulina stands out as an exceptionally nourishing superfood, brimming with essential nutrients including vitamins, minerals, omega 6/9 fatty acids, RNA, DNA, polysaccharides, and the powerful antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), alongside chlorophyll, among others. With an impressive Oxygen Radical Absorbance Capacity (ORAC) level, spirulina ranks among the top sources of phytopigments like beta-carotene and zeaxanthin. Notably, it is the sole known source of phycocyanin  comprising approximately 16% of spirulina's weight, recognised for its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, hepatoprotective, and anti-tumour properties.

Gram for gram, spirulina surpasses other foods in nutritional potency:

- 22 times the beta-carotene content of carrots
- 2 times the vitamin B2 found in lamb liver
- 12 times more digestible protein than beef
- 3 times the vitamin K content of kale
- It boasts the highest concentration of GLA among food sources
- Spirulina stands as the exclusive source of phycocyanin, setting it apart from other nutritional options.

Health Benefits 

A Nutrient -Rich Superfood Powerhouse.

**Antioxidant Powerhouse:** Spirulina's antioxidant-rich composition, featuring carotenoids, chlorophyll, and phycocyanin, bolsters cellular health and combats oxidative stress, offering a defence against aging and tissue damage.

**Tissue Preservation:** As the world's premier source of the antioxidant enzyme superoxide dismutase (SOD), spirulina shields tissues from damage caused by free radicals, slowing down the aging process and supporting overall health.

**Eye Health:** With an exceptional concentration of carotenoid antioxidants, spirulina supports vision and eye health, boasting 22 times the beta-carotene of carrots and significant levels of zeaxanthin and lutein.

**Blood Cleansing:** Spirulina's chlorophyll content aids in blood purification, promoting the production of red blood cells and facilitating oxygenation, while its phycocyanin content boosts white blood cell counts, enhancing immunity.

**Anti-inflammatory Properties:** Spirulina's phycocyanin content acts as a potent anti-inflammatory agent, offering protection against inflammatory conditions like arthritis and supporting overall wellness.

**Skin Health:** Spirulina's combination of SOD and carotenoids makes it an excellent choice for skincare, combating aging spots, eczema, acne, and rashes.

**Gut Health:** Spirulina's antimicrobial properties help maintain gut flora balance, inhibiting the growth of harmful bacteria and yeasts, promoting optimal digestion, and nutrient absorption.

**Brain Health:** Research suggests that spirulina supports neuron function and reduces free radical damage in the brain, potentially mitigating age-related neurological diseases like Parkinson's and Huntington's Disease.

**Gene Preservation:** Studies indicate that spirulina offers protection against genotoxicity and enhances blood cell production, while reducing hematopoietic damage induced by various toxins.

**Stem Cell Protection:** Spirulina appears to enhance stem cell proliferation, offering potential benefits for regenerative medicine and overall health.

**Testosterone Preservation:** Research suggests that spirulina helps maintain normal testosterone levels, even in the presence of oxidative toxins, offering support for hormonal balance and vitality.

Recommended dosage:

It is sensible for anyone who is new to taking  spirulina, to take just half of one tablet and monitor themselves for any adverse reactions for 24 hours. If there is no reaction, increase the dose to one tablet the following day, and gradually build the dose up day after day.  Build up to 5 grams (25 tablets/2x level 5ml teaspoons of powder) per day, with water.