Spirulina is an algae which grows on inland waters and ponds. It is an extremely rich green colour due to it’s high chlorophyll content and is rich in vitamins and minerals. Did you know that:
- In Russia Spirulina is known as a “medicine food” due to its ability to treat radiation sickness.
- It’s use has shown dramatic improvements in periods as short as 6 weeks in children suffering from anaemia and severe allergic reactions. 5g/day reduced urine radioactivity levels by 50% in just 20 days.
- Ancient Aztecs ate it as a staple food until the 16th century on tortillas after drying it.
- It was also used in the lake Chad region of Africa from as far back as the 9th century until today.
Spirulina is a great health food for several reasons including:
- It’s high protein content, about 70%, containing all the essential amino acids – so called as our bodies cannot synthesise them.
- It’s a potent source of GLA (gamma-linolenic acid), a fatty acid shown to be effective at regulating hormone levels.
Due to the mucopolysaccharide walls it is much easier to digest and absorb than other forms of algae including Chlorella. - It contains chlorophyll which has been shown to promote red blood cell rejuvenation as well as support anaemic conditions.
- Chlorophyll also supports the detoxification of heavy metals & toxins from the body. Regular use helps combat the negative environmental effects of 21st century living.
- It also combats bad breath and body odour!!
- Spirulina has been shown to be effective in preventing and treating cancer, it seems Spirulina is able to support DNA function and repair (damaged DNA is more likely to become cancerous).
- It can support the body in fighting the HIV virus, HIV replication has been inhibited by Spirulina in vitro, it also has anti-viral characteristics, preventing the virus penetrating host cells.
- It supports healthy liver function, an organ that can be under significant stress in this day and age.
And there’s more: it has been shown (in rats) to reduce mental decline due to it’s anti-oxidant properties.
It is NOT however a bio-available source of B12, this essential vitamin can only be obtained from animal products.
