Blue spirulina has become a very popular supplement based on the number of beneficial nutrients it provides. But what is blue spirulina? Are the health benefits of spirulina worth incorporating into your diet?
Continue reading to learn more about this amazing superfood and the benefits it has in store for you.
What is Blue Spirulina?
Blue spirulina is a blue-green algae that grows in both fresh and salt water. It can primarily be found in lakes and rivers and has a bitter, fishy flavor to it. It’s considered a superfood due to the number of nutrients and antioxidants it contains.
There are two forms blue spirulina supplements can appear in. Typically, you can find it in tablet or powder form. You can mix the powder supplement into smoothies, salads, and more.
Health Benefits of Blue Spirulina
There have been several studies that show evidence of some of the health benefits blue spirulina can give you. Continue reading to learn more about the potential benefits you can receive from incorporating blue spirulina into your diet.
Packed with Nutrients
Blue spirulina contains a variety of nutrients and vitamins in its plant-like structure. It contains nutrients like iron, protein, calcium, magnesium, and more. Additionally, spirulina provides vitamins B1, B2, and B3, as well as amino acids and Omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.
It’s no surprise that blue spirulina boosts your body’s immune system with all the nutrients it provides.
Contains Antioxidant Properties
A major component of blue spirulina is the antioxidant called phycocyanin. Phycocyanin is a plant-based protein that gives spirulina its blue-green color. Phycocyanin mainly blocks inflammation and fights free radicals, a type of molecule in the body that causes damage through oxidation.
Shown to Lower Cholesterol Levels
A study on the effects of spirulina on cholesterol levels showed that it significantly reduced LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. At the same time, spirulina was also shown to increase the levels of HDL cholesterol, also known as “good” cholesterol.
The ability to support heart health is an advantage of using blue spirulina as a supplement.
Reduces Risk of Oxidation
As stated before, blue spirulina fights free radicals and reduces oxidation. However, it also reduces the occurrence of lipid peroxidation, a complex chain reaction that causes lipid molecules to damage DNA.
Oxidation in the body contributes to the development of serious diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
Reduces Blood Pressure with Nitric Oxide
Blue spirulina has also been shown in five studies to reduce blood pressure levels. This further reduces the risk of hypertension as well as other blood pressure-related complications.
The studies hypothesize that blue spirulina contributes to the increased production of nitric oxide. Nitric oxide is a free radical compound that takes the form of a gas. However, this type of free radical is beneficial because it supports several biological systems, including your circulatory system.
Ability to Prevent Eye Diseases
Aside from the presence of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for eye health, blue spirulina also contains zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin is an organic pigment integral to the composition of the eye, as it protects your vision from sun damage. Increasing your zeaxanthin intake can reduce the risk of developing certain eye diseases such as cataracts.
Potential Health Benefits of Spirulina
Blue spirulina is a fairly new supplement. This means new research is constantly being conducted to solidify the full beneficial properties it may contain. The benefits below have scientific evidence that supports the potential capabilities of blue spirulina but are still undergoing research trials.
Improved Responses to Environmental Allergies
Blue spirulina may help reduce the inflamed, stuffy nose symptoms that come with everyday allergies. This is due to the anti-inflammatory properties it contains. It may even be more effective than certain antihistamines we use to combat allergies.
More research is needed to determine how effective it is as a counteragent to allergies. However, the current studies make it sound promising.
Could Affect Mood Disorders
Spirulina contains the tryptophan amino acid, which triggers an increased production of serotonin. Many mental health disorders are characterized by decreased levels of serotonin. Blue spirulina might be beneficial as a supplemental treatment if it significantly increases levels of serotonin. However, the exact effects of blue spirulina as a serotonin supplement are still unknown.
May Contribute to Endurance
Spirulina is hypothesized to help increase your muscle strength capacity. This is due to the work of antioxidants that prevent exercise-induced oxidation damage that causes muscle fatigue. More studies on spirulina may reveal that it has other benefits for physically active people in the future.
May Help Manage Blood Sugar Levels
Most of the studies on this health benefit have only studied the effects of blue spirulina in animals. However, the research still showed promising results that spirulina could manage and even lower human blood sugar levels.
Potentially Effective Against Anemia
In a study involving senior citizens, blue spirulina was shown to counteract anemia and have great nutritional value. This is because blue spirulina contains a good amount of iron. Though further research is necessary, it makes sense that blue spirulina could be a good supplement for anemia.
Try Blue Spirulina at 3Natives
Experience the benefits of blue spirulina yourself at your local 3Natives! Try it in our Blue Lemonade juice or the Callie Special smoothie.
Our menu is full of fresh and flavorful smoothies, juices, salads, wraps, and breakfast options that are sure to satisfy you. We offer online ordering and delivery, making us the perfect choice for a quick bite on the run.
