Spirulina: Immune boosting, mood enhancing, protein-rich wonder food

Friday, July 12, 2013 by: Nanditha
Tags: spirulina, superfood supplements, immunity

(NaturalNews) Blue green algae, commonly known as spirulina is a group of organisms found in the ocean and sometimes in fresh water lakes. They are among the most nutritious plant-like organisms known to humans, so if malnutrition is anywhere on the radar, then think "spirulina" because the concentration of micronutrients in this power packed "magic food" is unsurpassed.

Spirulina has the highest concentration of digestible vegetable protein with a perfectly balanced combination of essential amino acids. One of the most common vitamin deficiencies found in a vegan or vegetarian diet, namely that of B-12, can be quite easily be fixed with spirulina. This naturally occurring wonder food (which can also be cultivated) is rich enough in protein (65 to 70 percent complete protein) apparently to make even beef cringe, and is remarkably well endowed with beta carotene, iron and trace minerals, and the rare yet essential fatty acid GLA.

The unparalleled immune boosting qualities of spirulina

The immune boosting qualities of spirulina can never be over stated what with it's unique ability to fight infection, enhance cellular functioning, and even keep cancer at bay. The dark green color of spirulina is a measure of how rich it is in chlorophyll, which in turn is a great detox agent, helping the body steer clear of atmoshpheric and other pollutants. It penetrates as far into the body as the DNA and gives it a cellular "tune up" or regeneration, thereby vastly improving cellular communication and well being. There is enough scientific research and evidence to validate the immune boosting qualities of spirulina and consumers reporting increased energy levels bears testimony to this fact.

The list of diseases and conditions known that could succumb to spirulina treatment is pretty long, of which fighting viral infections, increasing mental sharpness, and enhancing the body's ability to generate new blood cells are but a few. However, blue-green algae products must be free of toxic chemicals and liver-damaging substances, so it is wise to look into where the product is coming from. Contaminated blue-green algae is incredibly toxic to the system and can cause a range of fresh health problems such as stomach pain, nausea, vomiting and shock. Due to the little known benefits of spirulina consumption during pregnancy and lactation it best avoided during this time.

As well, it is important to check the recommended daily dosage, which could vary from 1 to 8 grams depending on various factors such as body constitution and quality of product, before taking spirulina as a dietary supplement on a daily basis.

While spirulina is not a cure all or a replacement for other types of therapy, it certainly bears all the markings of dietary genius with healing properties, and seems well worth investigating into, especially since it promises relief from chronic fatigue, depression, obesity, and maybe even memory loss.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.spirulina-benefits-health.com/spirulina_nutrition.html

http://www.vitguide.com/spirulina-side-effects/

About the author:
Nanditha Prasad Ram is a consumer and health journalist and a practicing holistic therapist.
Her blog is available at http://www.bindumandalayoga.blogspot.in