Spirulina is one of the commonest sources of vitamin e in the world. It has been used since the ancient times for its health benefits. People consume spirulina either in supplement form or by consuming the green leafy plant. Spirulina is known to improve the immune system, promote blood circulation, strengthen the bone mineral strength, and enhance overall mental clarity and performance. According to experts, spirulina extracts have become one of the most popular supplemental vitamins in the market today.
Spirulina contains high levels of protein, fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients. It is also rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for cell membranes to function properly. Spirulina is the major source of vitamin e. In fact, it is the richest source of vitamin e among all plants. It is also a rich source of essential fatty acids. Spirulina has proven beneficial in several studies on human beings, who were fed with spirulina supplements to evaluate the effects of the supplements on their health.
Benefits of Spirulina Although there is no single scientific study that speaks extensively about the benefits of spirulina, a number of researches have been conducted over the years. One such study says that spirulina provides protection against cardiovascular diseases. It is found out that spirulina provides 0.7 grams of protein per every gram of whole seed, which is almost similar to fish oil. The researchers further found out that consuming spirulina provides significant protection against prostate cancer. While consuming this, the participants increased their fatty acid contents by almost 16%. Thus, spirulina provides more than enough nutrients to protect the body from free radicals.
Spirulina Has Anti-Aging Effects Another scientific evidence suggests that spirulina contains phytoestrogens which can prevent the aging process. The phytoestrogens can bind with the androgen hormone thereby reducing the production of testosterone. When compared to other grains like barley and wheat, spirulina per day contains higher level of antioxidants. Antioxidants can prevent DNA damage and also prevent cell mutation, which prevents premature aging.
Diets containing spirulina as a dietary supplement can prove advantageous. The powder can be added to the daily diet to obtain the required amount of spirulina. However, spirulina may not be available in the form of flakes or tablets because it is difficult to extract. Therefore, it becomes necessary to add it as an ingredient in other food items like bread, cereals, noodles, potato chips, millet and so forth. Adding spirulina in these foods helps to add considerable nutrient quantity to the daily diet. However, dihe or dried spirulina should not be eaten, otherwise the desired effects on health may be hampered.
Diets rich in spirulina are found to be effective in fighting against common disorders like diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. Spirulina is also beneficial for curing cancer and improving the immune system of the body. Apart from these benefits, spirulina also helps to strengthen the bones, joints and blood vessels. Hence, spirulina can be considered as a super food source for a number of disorders. It is also important to note that dihe or dried spirulina is not useful for treating any of the vitamin or mineral deficiencies. Hence, it can be concluded that spirulina is an excellent choice as a dietary supplement.