Spirulina is a blue-green microalgae, considered a “superfood” because it contains vitamins, minerals, antioxidant compounds, and proteins that provide anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
Promote weight loss, protect the heart and brain, regulate blood sugar and promote the increase in muscle mass, are just some of the benefits of consuming spirulina.
It is also attributed hypolipemic, antihypertensive, antidiabetic, neuroprotective, antianemic, antitumor, hepatoprotective, antiobesity, antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antiaging, and immunomodulatory properties, according to research published by your health.
Seven benefits of spirulina for health
The benefits that spirulina brings to health are multiple according to scientific evidence, in this installment we will mention seven.
Spirulina helps prevent and treat anemia, promote weight loss, take care of heart health, take care of heart health, combat high blood pressure, regulate blood sugar and prevent premature aging. Being a source of iron, an essential mineral for the production of hemoglobin, which is a component of red blood cells, spirulina helps prevent and treat anemia. Spirulina intake increases blood hemoglobin levels, helping to prevent and treat anemia. It also provides protein and good amounts of fiber, which increases digestion time and generates a feeling of satiety, which helps to consume less food, which is why it is related to promote weight loss. Another characteristic of this microalgae is its low calorie content and its high contribution of γ-linolenic acid, an antioxidant that plays an important role in metabolism and the reduction of body fat. The main antioxidant present in spirulina is phycocyanin that inhibits the absorption of cholesterol in the intestine, decreasing the levels of fat in the blood, thus favoring heart health.
Spirulina contains antioxidants such as beta-carotene and gallic acid, which contribute to the reduction of total cholesterol levels, “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, and favor the increase in “good” HDL cholesterol.
These components act by preventing the onset of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks, atherosclerosis and stroke, according to Tua Saude, a portal specializing in information on issues related to health, nutrition and well-being.
The main antioxidant present in spirulina is phycocyanin which inhibits the absorption of cholesterol in the intestineCredit: Shutterstock
Other benefits of this microalgae is its ability to promote the production of nitric oxide, which promotes the relaxation of blood vessels, in turn generating a Decreased blood pressure.
However, the consumption of spirulina cannot be at personal discretion, it must be prescribed by a medical professional to prevent it from lowering blood pressure and causing damage to health.
Due to its composition rich in antioxidants and polyunsaturated fats, the intake of spirulina favors lowering blood sugar levels. That is why they are considered to help prevent diabetes and control glucose levels in those who suffer from the disease.
Spirulina is also capable of increasing insulin sensitivity, which results in a rapid decrease in the amount of circulating glucose.
This superfood is recognized for being a source of amino acids that help maintain and develop muscles. In addition, it has γ-linolenic acid, a polyunsaturated fat that improves endurance and the strength necessary to gain muscle mass.
By containing antioxidants it helps in the recovery of muscle fibers after physical activity, this in turn influences muscle growth.
As we have previously mentioned, spirulina is a source of antioxidants, such as vitamins A and C, which help combat cell damage caused by free radicals in the skin, preventing the formation of wrinkles and sagging skin.
How to take spirulina?
Spirulina is safe to take for up to 3 months and a doctor should be consulted before taking it Credit: Shutterstock
Spirulina is available in powder and capsule form, and can be swallowed with a little water or added to juices or smoothies.
It is recommended to go to a doctor to prescribe the appropriate dose in each case, since it is recommended between 1 to 8 grams per day, that is, 1000 mg to 8000 mg/day.
For example, as a general supplement: 1 g per day, while to lose weight: 2 to 3 g per day, for that reason it is suggested to go to the specialist.
Spirulina is safe to take for up to 3 months; then a month off, to then resume intake.
Among the side effects of spirulina consumption are: causing nausea, vomiting and / or diarrhea.
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2023-07-28 20:16:50
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