What is Spirulina Powder?

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What is Spirulina Powder?

Spirulina powder is a nutrient-packed supplement enjoyed by people looking for quick and convenient ways to bridge some nutritional gaps in their diets. It’s also one of the most common ingredients in super greens powders.

This article explores the power of spirulina powder, its many health benefits, and how you can easily add it to your diet.

Spirulina powder explained

Spirulina is sourced from the dried biomass of cyanobacteria, a blue-green algae found in the sea and salt lakes. The algae is edible to humans and animals, and the Aztecs even ate it as a cake.

NASA astronauts also made the powder famous when they used it as a dietary supplement during space missions. Today, spirulina is typically found in super greens powders or sold on its own as a powder or supplement.

Spirulina Vs. Chlorella

Both spirulina and chlorella are sourced from algae and used in health and food supplements. While spirulina is blue, chlorella has a vibrant green hue. Chlorella is also higher in vitamin A and omega-3 fats, whereas spirulina has more protein and vitamins E and K.

Spirulina Nutritional Information and Facts

Spirulina is packed with goodness and is a natural source of vitamins and minerals, including:

Thiamine (vitamin B1): Helps your body turn food into energy while maintaining immune system health.

Riboflavin (vitamin B2): Helps cell growth, development and function. Also aids in the breakdown of fats, proteins and carbohydrates.

Niacin (vitamin B3): Helps keep your nervous system, digestive system and skin healthy. People sometimes use Niacin as a supplement to lower cholesterol.

Copper: Helps the body make red blood cells and maintains nerve and immune system health.

Iron: Helps to preserve vital bodily functions, including gastrointestinal processes and the immune system. The mineral also aids general energy and focus.

Magnesium: Helps maintain normal bone structure and regulates muscle and nerve function.

One tablespoon of spirulina also contains: 20 calories 4g of protein 1g of fat 2g of carbohydrates

What Are the Health Benefits of Spirulina?

One of the many questions people ask is, “Is spirulina good for you?” Beyond its rich vitamin and mineral content, spirulina is an eco-conscious dietary choice with an impressive protein profile. Let’s take a look.

Spirulina Is a Great Vegan-Friendly Source of Protein

Dried spirulina eclipses steak in protein density with a staggering 57g of protein per 100g. This plant-based superfood is perfect for those adhering to a vegan or plant-based diet. Spirulina’s diverse amino acid profile dispels the myth that plant-based proteins lack essential building blocks for the body.

Spirulina Is a fantastic Source of Iron

Iron is crucial, particularly for pregnant or menstruating women. Spirulina is a rich source of this essential mineral, providing 219% of the daily recommended allowance per 100g. This factor makes spirulina an invaluable addition that boosts iron levels.

Spirulina Is High In B Vitamins

For vegetarians and vegans, sourcing B vitamins can be a challenge. Spirulina bridges this gap, offering a wealth of B vitamins crucial for overall health. Its inclusion in a vegan diet significantly contributes to meeting daily nutritional requirements.

Spirulina May Have Cholesterol-Lowering Properties

Spirulina can decrease unhealthy low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol while increasing healthy high-density lipoprotein (HDL). One study found that spirulina improved cholesterol markers in people with metabolic syndrome.

Spirulina Has Anti-Inflammatory Properties

The primary active compound in spirulina is called phycocyanin, which has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Research shows that phycocyanin helps fight oxidative stress by blocking histamine molecules that promote inflammation.

Spirulina May Have Anti-Cancer Properties

Researchers are investigating phycocyanin for its anti-cancer properties and potential use as a therapy for certain cancers. One study found that spirulina reduces myelosuppression, which is when the bone marrow doesn’t make enough blood cells or platelets. It also found that phycocyanin could improve immune function after chemotherapy in patients with malignant tumors.

Are There Side Effects of Spirulina Powder?

Dieticians and health professionals widely consider spirulina to be a safe dietary supplement, although there are some cases where it might not be suitable for you. If you suffer from an autoimmune disease, spirulina may worsen the condition. Those with lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis should avoid taking spirulina.

In a small number of cases, people have reported nausea and vomiting, diarrhoea, headaches and dizziness. As always, consult your doctor or dietitian if you’re unsure or feel unwell before taking any supplement.

Can You Take Spirulina Every Day?

Yes, spirulina is safe to enjoy every day. Although it is considered safe in higher doses, health experts do not recommend taking more than 8g daily.

Is Spirulina Environmentally Friendly?

Finding sustainable protein sources is paramount in an era where ecological impact is a pressing concern. Spirulina emerges as a shining example, requiring minimal land and water resources for cultivation. Its high protein yield and eco-friendly cultivation process make it an ideal choice for vegans and environmentally conscious consumers.

How To Get Spirulina Into Your Diet

To benefit from spirulina, look no further than Super Greens. It contains 23 superfoods, including spirulina powder, which tops the ingredients list. A 7.5g scoop has the equivalent nutritional value of your daily intake of five fruits and vegetables. The taste of spirulina can be quite strong for some people, it can come across as earthy and grassy in flavour. So if it isn’t for you, we offer a variety of fruity flavours so you can consume as a drink. But we also recommend adding it to smoothies, sprinkling it on salads or in soups or using it as an additional ingredient in flapjacks, energy balls etc.