This dietary supplement is known as blue-green algae. One of the types of cyanobacteria. Its habitat is fresh and salty environment. The component has a huge number of biochemical properties that have a positive effect on the human body, helps in the treatment and prevention of many diseases. Even our ancestors used it for medicinal purposes, as it is one of the main sources of vitamins and beneficial nutrients.
The history of the popularity of the additive begins in the 1970s and interest in it has only increased. On planet Earth, it is one of the most common and useful substances. In today’s material, we will talk about the properties and action of the substance, in what form it is produced, what is included in the composition of dietary supplements and what are the contraindications for taking it.
Spirulina designation
The substance is extracted from algae in fresh and salty environments. Blue-green algae, from which spirulina is extracted for the manufacture of supplements, has always been famous for its beneficial properties for our body. It is a major source of B vitamins, including the essential B12.
According to scientists, spirulina was found 3.5 billion years ago. This is the most ancient component that found early organisms in the period of evolution and the formation of the globe. Spirulina is a blue-green spiral, from which the name of this trace element came from. Now scientists are finding more and more useful properties of microalgae. It helps to improve overall health and normalize the functionality of the human body. Increases immunity and has an alkalizing effect, as said by the American doctor Edward Group.
Microalgae have so many beneficial micronutrients that they are one of the top five cleansing foods for the body. They improve the performance of organ systems, the immune system, prevent and fight against many diseases, prevent stressful situations, promote the rapid healing of wounds, have a rejuvenating effect and other benefits.
Properties and effect of spirulina on the human body
Let’s see what effect blue-green microalgae have on the human body.
- Antioxidant property. Spirulina helps in wound healing as it has an anti-inflammatory function. It creates a barrier to oxidative stress and protects body cells from external stimuli.
- Helps against anemia.
- Protects against tumors.
- Reduces blood pressure, thereby positively affecting the cardiovascular system.
- An excellent companion for athletes, because it increases strength and increases endurance.
- Brings blood glucose levels back to normal.
Improves the condition of the skin, increases its elasticity and youthfulness, prevents the appearance of inflammation and aesthetic defects.
Cyanobacterium is a great option for vegans and vegetarians because it contains a lot of protein in its composition, which can often only be obtained from animal products. Supports the work of the digestive and endocrine systems of the body.
Type of spirulina
In the pharmaceutical industry, supplements are produced in tablet, powder and capsule forms. The first is famous for its convenience, since a jar of pills can be taken anywhere and this will not interfere with taking the drug, depending on the dosage indicated by the doctor. Powdered spirulina is diluted with water or another favorite beverage. It can also be added to various dishes to increase the nutritional value.
In the powder version, microalgae are also used to make creams and masks due to the positive effect of cyanobacteria on the dermis. Spirulina has a specific taste, so for people who do not like it, the option in capsules is suitable, not in powder.
What is included in the supplement
Spirulina contains the following ingredients:
Chlorophyll is the main substance that creates an interesting blue-green color. Even from school biology lessons, many people know that chlorophyll is part of the leaves, creating the appropriate color. In addition to color, it is also responsible for the useful component of the component, improves immunity and saturates the body with beneficial trace elements;
- iron;
- manganese;
- protein, which makes spirulina an excellent superfood for vegans and vegetarians. It contains about 70 percent and is lighter in
- structure than animal protein. Because of this, the load on the gastrointestinal tract is reduced and pain and discomfort in the abdomen
- do not appear;
- magnesium;
- omega-fatty polyunsaturated acids;
- potassium;
- copper.
Spirulina also contains vitamins B and A, which are responsible for a beneficial effect on the skin, eyes and central nervous system.
How to take superfood
Depending on meals, spirulina can be drunk at any time: before and after meals. The daily norm for a person is about 4 grams of powder for use as a disease prevention. When treating pathologies, it requires taking about eight grams of microalgae. It is important to observe the daily dosage so as not to lead to an overabundance. It is fraught with the following consequences:
- problems with the gastrointestinal tract;
- nausea and vomiting;
- disorders in the cardiovascular system;
- increased nervous excitement.
In powder form, spirulina needs to be diluted in pure water, but it is also possible to mix it with your drink. Before doing this, you should consult with a specialist. Reception in tablets is carried out in the amount of 1-6 pieces, depending on the amount of the substance in one tablet. It is worth taking 1-2 times a day.
The duration of the course is about one month. After that, take a break of 3-4 weeks and return to taking the drug.
The best digestibility of microalgae is taken with food, but not with dairy, fried or flour dishes. It is impossible to subject the algae to heat treatment, since there will be no healing effect from it.
Experts advise combining spirulina with fresh vegetables and fruits, freshly squeezed juices, as a smoothie for breakfast. So you can enrich yourself with energy throughout the day.