Spirulina Benefits

Spirulina is a type of unicellular cyanobacteria, that resembles a spiral coil in shape. It contains pigments, chlorophyll and phycocyanin, which gives it a blue-green color. It is found in both, sea and fresh alkaline water bodies, and is also cultivated in various parts of the world to meet its ever rising demand supplements. It has a history of being used as a food source among the Aztecs and other Mesoamericans, until the 16th century. Today, this microscopic blue-green algae is cultivated largely in United States, India, China, Myanmar, Thailand and Pakistan, with the growing awareness about its benefits and the widespread use of its supplement.

Spirulina Health Benefits

It contains all the 8 essential amino acids and its protein content is about 70%, which is much higher, as compared to many popular food sources of protein. Apart from protein, it is immensely rich in vitamin E, beta-carotene (precursor of vitamin A), vitamin C, B-complex vitamins, especially vitamin B12, crucial minerals like, zinc, manganese, iron, copper, selenium, chromium and essential fatty acids like, linoleic acid. Being such a rich source of so many vital nutrients, it can boost the overall health and well-being and provide the following health benefits.

• It is an immune booster. It can strengthen the immune system and increase its ability to fight infection and the infectious agents like, virus.
• Due to its antioxidant properties, it can provide protection against the cell and tissue damage, caused by the free radicals. Free radicals are highly reactive particles that oxidize the body cells and tissues and thereby, contribute towards the development of several diseases.
• It can help in preventing hair loss. It can promote hair growth to treat alopecia or hair loss, that can affect the scalp, as well as the entire body.
• It can reduce the risk for certain types of cancer including oral cancer by boosting the immune system.
• It can aid in lowering cholesterol, which in turn can reduce the risk for heart disease.
• It can improve the functions of the cardiovascular system.
• It may also prove helpful in preventing liver disorders or diseases like, cirrhosis.
• It can promote proper digestion of food and checks the overgrowth of harmful microorganism in the intestine. It can prove beneficial for improving overall digestive and gastrointestinal health.
• It can facilitate the detoxification of the body, by accelerating the process of eliminating the toxic substances.
• Many people have experienced a gradual reduction in body weight. Weight loss benefits of spirulina have further raised the popularity of this supplement.
• It can also be used for skin care, especially for allergic dermatitis. Some studies have pointed out that, it can block the release of histamine, which is responsible for producing allergic reactions including, allergic dermatitis.

Spirulina Side Effects

However, it can occasionally, cause a few side effects. The most commonly reported side effects are, headache, muscle pain, fever and gastrointestinal problems like, diarrhea, stomach ache and constipation. People allergic to spirulina can also develop reactions like, skin rash or hives. Sometimes, it can get contaminated with heavy metals and microcystins. In addition to these, it can interact with certain medications, especially drugs used for high blood pressure, cholesterol lowering, diabetes and immunosuppressant medications.

We can conclude, that if taken according to the appropriate dosage and under the close supervision of your health care provider, it can help immensely to boost your health. However, those allergic to this blue-green algae, as well as those taking certain medications should talk to their physician prior taking its supplements. This can help to avoid the side effects of this supplement, while maximizing its benefits.