Spirulina is among the world’s most popular supplements. It is loaded with various nutrients and antioxidants that may benefit your body and brain. Here are 10 evidence-based health benefits of spirulina.

1. Spirulina Is highly Nutritious

Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and saltwater. It is a type of cyanobacteria, which is a family of single-celled microbes that are often referred to as blue-green algae. Just like plants, cyanobacteria can produce energy from sunlight via a process called photosynthesis. Spirulina was consumed by the ancient Aztecs but became popular again when NASA proposed that it could be grown in space for use by astronauts. This tiny alga is packed with nutrients. A single tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina powder contains:

• Protein: 4 grams
• Vitamin B1 (thiamine): 11% of the RDA
• Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 15% of the RDA
• Vitamin B3 (niacin): 4% of the RDA
• Copper: 21% of the RDA
• Iron: 11% of the RDA

It also contains decent amounts of magnesium, potassium and manganese and small amounts of almost every other nutrient that you need. In addition, the same amount holds only 20 calories and 1.7 grams of digestible carbs. Gram for gram, spirulina may be the single most nutritious food on the planet. A tablespoon (7 grams) of spirulina provides a small amount of fat — around 1 gram — including both omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids in an approximately 1.5–1.0 ratio. The quality of the protein in spirulina is considered excellent — comparable to eggs. It gives all the essential amino acids that you need.

2. Powerful Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Properties

Oxidative damage can harm your DNA and cells. This damage can drive chronic inflammation, which contributes to cancer and other diseases. Spirulina is a fantastic source of antioxidants, which can protect against oxidative damage. Its main active component is called phycocyanin. This antioxidant substance also gives spirulina its unique blue-green color. Phycocyanin can fight free radicals and inhibit production of inflammatory signaling molecules, providing impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

3. May Improve Muscle Strength and Endurance

Exercise-induced oxidative damage is a major contributor to muscle fatigue. Certain plant foods have antioxidant properties that can help athletes and physically active individuals minimize this damage. Spirulina appears beneficial, as some studies pointed to improved muscle strength and endurance. In two studies, spirulina enhanced endurance, significantly increasing the time it took for people to become fatigued.

4. Protects “Bad” LDL Cholesterol From Oxidation

Fatty structures in your body are susceptible to oxidative damage. This is known as lipid peroxidation, a key driver of many serious diseases. For example, one of the key steps in the development of heart disease is the oxidation of “bad” LDL cholesterol. Interestingly, the antioxidants in spirulina appear to be particularly effective at reducing lipid peroxidation in both humans and animals. In a study in 37 people with type 2 diabetes, spirulina per day significantly reduced markers of oxidative damage. It also increased levels of antioxidant enzymes in the blood.

5. May Be Effective Against Anemia

There are many different forms of anemia. The most common one is characterized by a reduction in hemoglobin or red blood cells in your blood. Anemia is fairly common in older adults, leading to prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue. In a study in 40 older people with a history of anemia, spirulina supplements increased the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and improved immune function.

6. May Reduce Blood Pressure

High blood pressure is a main driver of many serious diseases, including heart attacks, strokes and chronic kidney disease. It has shown to reduce blood pressure in individuals with normal levels. This reduction is thought to be driven by an increased production of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that helps your blood vessels relax and dilate.

7. Improves Symptoms of Allergic Rhinitis

Allergic rhinitis is characterized by inflammation in your nasal passageways. It is triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal hair or even wheat dust. Spirulina is a popular alternative treatment for symptoms of allergic rhinitis, and there is evidence that it can be effective. In one study in 127 people with allergic rhinitis, spirulina dramatically reduced symptoms like nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching.

8. Can Lower “Bad” LDL and Triglyceride Levels

Heart disease is the world's leading cause of death. Many risk factors are linked to an increased risk of heart disease. As it turns out, spirulina positively impacts many of these factors. For example, it can lower total cholesterol, “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising “good” HDL cholesterol. In a study in 25 people with type 2 diabetes, spirulina per day significantly improved these markers. Another study in people with high cholesterol determined that spirulina per day lowered triglycerides by 16.3% and “bad” LDL by 10.1%.

9. May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

Some evidence suggests that spirulina has anti-cancer properties. Research in animals indicates that it can reduce cancer occurrence and tumor size. Spirulina’s effects on oral cancer — or cancer of the mouth — have been particularly well studied. One study examined 87 people from India with precancerous lesions — called oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF) — in the mouth. Among those who took spirulina per day for one year, 45% saw their lesions disappear — compared to only 7% in the control group.When these people stopped taking spirulina, almost half of them redeveloped lesions in the following year. In another study of 40 individuals with OSMF lesions, spirulina per day led to greater improvement in OSMF symptoms than the drug Pentoxyfilline.

10. May Aid Blood Sugar Control

Animal studies link spirulina to significantly lower blood sugar levels. In some cases, it has outperformed popular diabetes drugs, including Metformin. In a two-month study in 25 people with type 2 diabetes, spirulina per day led to an impressive reduction in blood sugar levels. HbA1c, a marker for long-term blood sugar levels, decreased from 9% to 8%, which is substantial. Studies estimate that a 1% reduction in this marker can lower the risk of diabetes-related death by 21%

Spirulina is incredibly healthy. It may improve your levels of blood lipids, suppress oxidation, reduce blood pressure and lower blood sugar. Spirulina may be one of the few superfoods worthy of the title. Supplement your RDA with Nutridecc® Spirulina Har-din™ Food Pills to enjoy the benefits.

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