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X Watch the video on youtubeWhat is Spirulina
Spirulina ( Arthrospira platensis ) is a single-celled blue alga with a narrow and elongated shape (does not exceed half a millimeter). Widespread in brackish waters, it favors tropical and subtropical areas where it takes advantage of the alkaline water pH which characterizes them.
The name "Spirulina" derives instead from the shape of this alga that remembers, as can be guessed from its very name, that of a spiral.
Nutritional Properties
Spirulina is particularly rich in proteins, essential amino acids and lipids. The fats contained in it belong to the large family of mono and polyunsaturates, with a clear prevalence of omega-6 compared to omega-3 and with high quantities of gamma linolenic acid; these nutrients, if well balanced between them, are considered able to normalize cholesterol levels in the blood, participate in the formation of myelin sheaths that cover the nerves and improve the functionality of the immune system. In order for this to happen it would be advisable to balance the omega6 / omega three ratio of one's diet with the help of a nutritionist, also considering the possible integration with spirulina algae.
Tocopherol, Β-carotene, inositol and some B-group vitamins are abundant among the vitamins. The content of minerals is also moderate, but iodine is not included, an element that abounds above all in marine algae (fucus and laminaria) .
The combined vitamin ACE (carotenoids, ascorbic acid and tocopherol) + phycobilins and other pigments (eg chlorophyll), gives the Spirulina antioxidant properties worthy of note. Thanks to these characteristics, Spirulina seaweed can potentially protect against free radicals and the damage they cause to the body (premature aging, neurodegenerative diseases, some cancers and atherosclerotic disease).
The food use of Spirulina is very ancient, in fact it seems to date back to the time of the Romans who destined it to the feeding of the African populations ( Spirulina platensis ). This alga was also present in the diet of pre-Columbian civilizations ( Spirulina maxima ); this tradition was reported by the Spanish "conquistador" Cortés who in the early 1500s subjected the Aztec empire.
Spirulina supplements
Today spirulina-based supplements are very popular among sportsmen and those who want to reach their right weight quickly or look for a natural alternative to multivitamin-mineral supplements and synthetic tonic. In the first case, the high content of vitamins and minerals that serve as enzyme cofactors to support energy production during a particularly intense muscular effort is exploited.
Athletes can also take advantage of the excellent vitamin intake of spirulina and its valuable antioxidant properties (physical activity, while improving endogenous disposal systems, produces many free radicals).
The very high protein content (65-70 grams per 100g of food, compared to 20-25g of a lean meat cut), makes Spirulina a particularly useful and nutritious food even for the sedentary population. The good amino acid profile, can be a valid help to cover the need for essential amino acids in people who follow a strict vegetarian diet (vegan). Its particular cell wall, devoid of cellulose and mucoproteic type, also gives it good digestibility.
Spirulina also appears to have a certain effect on appetite control. When taken before meals, it accelerates the appearance of the sense of satiety (probably thanks to the abundance of nutrients, in particular of proteins, and to their effect on the secretion of CCK) and in this sense can find space in dietary-behavioral therapies sometimes to the reduction of body weight. Satisfying any vitamin or mineral deficiencies, spirulina could also help mitigate the appearance of bulimic crises. However, these hypotheses are mostly exploited for commercial purposes, given that there are not enough scientific bases to justify the usefulness of spirulina in the control of body weight.
For all these positive characteristics, Spirulina has earned the nickname "food of the future".
| SPIRULINA | 100 grams | per serving (10 g) |
| Kcal | 290 | 29 |
Kjoule | 1214 | 1214.4 |
Carbohydrates (g) | 24 | 2.4 |
Fats (g) | 8 | 0.8 |
Proteins (g) | 57 | 5.7 |
| Cholesterol (g) | 0 | 0 |
| Fibers (mg) | 3.6 | 0.36 |
| Iron (mg) | 28.5 (158%) | 2.85 (15.8%) |
| Copper (mg) | 6.1 (305%) | 0.61 (30.5%) |
| Manganese (mg) | 1.9 (95%) | 0.19 (9.5%) |
| Magnesium (mg) | 145 (49%) | 14.5 (4.9%) |
| Riboflavin (mg) | 3.7 (216%) | 0.37 (21.6%) |
| Thiamine (mg) | 2.4 (159%) | 0.24 (15.9%) |
Vitamin B12 (mcg) * | 0 | 0 |
| Nutritional values Dried SPIRULINA | ||
* Vitamin B12 is found, as indeed in all vegetables, in a form that cannot be assimilated by the body. Its nutritional characteristics are similar to those of other lesser known blue-green algae, such as the klamath or chlorella.
Spirulina online
Online is available a Complex of Spirulina and Chlorella in Capsules, a mixture of natural algae rich in proteins, vitamin B1, iron, phytonutrients and calcium. This dense and nourishing formula is also rich in essential amino acids, beta-carotene, potassium, biotin and other vitamins: it is in fact a natural and vegan supplement that contains almost 600% more protein than tofu, 280% in more antioxidants than blueberries and almost 4, 000% more beta-carotene than carrots.
Each recommended daily dose (3 capsules) provides up to 1, 800 mg of algae as well. Moreover, thanks to its versatility, this versatile product can be mixed with smoothies, smoothies and baked goods. In addition to being gluten-free, this formula is free of additives, artificial colorings, sweeteners, binders or fillers, so that the product is pure and genuine.
Alternatively, you can choose Organic Spirulina in packs of 500 tablets, a supplement that contributes to the vitality and proper functioning of the immune system. Thanks to their ability to improve stamina and muscle tone, athletes also appreciate its qualities. It is also a perfect ally in detox diets and nutritional deficiencies.
The Spirulina Platensis present in the supplement contains 15 times more beta-carotene (vitamin A) than carrots, 3 times more protein than beef (including 9 essential amino acids), 4 times more B vitamins than the liver (including B12 ) and a mine of minerals and antioxidants, including the famous phycocyanin. Cultivated in the sun and in its natural habitat, without the use of heat or artificial light, organic spirulina guarantees a product of excellent quality and great convenience.
Mode of use
The recommended dose is 10 grams a day, an apparently modest quantity but which is able to cover, by itself, a large part of the daily needs of many nutrients such as vitamin A and iron.
Despite the high presence of proteins, minerals, vitamins and lipids, a portion of 10 or 20 grams cannot be considered a complete food and as such cannot replace a normal meal. If used as a dietary supplement, Spirulina can still be an important aid in covering the needs of various nutrients. The Ministry of Health emphasizes the physiological effect useful for "supportive and nourishing action".
Side effects
With regard to the side effects, we highlight the potential risks deriving from contamination with microcystins, analyzed in the article on the klamath algae. For the rest, spirulina is normally well tolerated; gastrointestinal disorders (such as nausea and sense of gastric fullness) are reported in predisposed subjects. Do not exceed recommended intake doses.
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