July 16, 2022
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Spirulina algae: what it is, what it is for and recipes for cooking it
Spirulina algae: what it is, what it is for and recipes for cooking it
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that can
be taken as a dietary supplement. More and more experts and studies consider spirulina algae a superfood , thanks to its special nutritional content and potential health benefits.
Spirulina contains proteins and vitamins , making it a particularly suitable food supplement for people on vegetarian or vegan diets.
Research suggests this food has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties,
as well as the ability to help regulate the immune system!
Read on to find out what spirulina is, its benefits, and how it can be used in cooking.
What is spirulina algae?
Spirulina is a blue-green microalgae. Its botanical name is Arthrospira platensis and it is considered "green" because it contains chlorophyll and "blue" because it contains phycocyanin.
Spirulina comes in tiny microscopic filaments and its name comes from the Latin "Spiral".
Spirulina has been present on earth for over 3 billion years: blue-green algae are thought to have created our atmosphere, allowing life to evolve.
It is incredibly rich in proteins and nutrients : it is not for nothing that spirulina falls into the category of "superfoods", being one of the most powerful sources of nutrients we have available. Spirulina algae has in fact been used since ancient times and was already known to the Aztec people as "food of the gods" .
The rediscovery of this incredible microalga and the interest of the scientific community in it began about 40 years ago. NASA has even incorporated this microalgae into space programs to feed astronauts, purify the air and transform waste!
The benefits of spirulina algae
Spirulina is among the most popular supplements in the world. It is rich in various nutrients and antioxidants that can benefit our body and brain.
Here are some of the main health benefits generated by taking this seaweed.
Spirulina algae is rich in many valuable nutrients
This small seaweed is packed with nutrients. A single tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina powder contains:
-
Proteins : 4 grams
-
Vitamin B1 (thiamine) : 11% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA)
-
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin) : 15% of the RDA
-
Vitamin B3 (niacin) : 4% of the RDA
-
Copper : 21% of the RDA
-
Iron : 11% of the RDA
- It also contains decent amounts of magnesium, potassium, and manganese, and small amounts of just about every other nutrient you need.
Additionally, the same amount contains only 20 calories and 1.7 grams of digestible carbohydrates. Gram for gram, spirulina may be the most nutritious food on the planet!
Spirulina algae has powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties
Oxidative damage can damage DNA and cells, generating a state of chronic inflammation that contributes to cancer and other diseases.
Spirulina is a fantastic source of antioxidants , which may protect against oxidative damage.
Its main active component is called phycocyanin . This antioxidant substance also gives spirulina its unique blue-green color!
Spirulina algae can reduce blood pressure
High blood pressure is a major factor in many serious illnesses, including heart attacks, strokes, and chronic kidney disease.
Although 1 gram of spirulina is ineffective, a dose of 4.5 grams per day has been shown to reduce blood pressure in individuals with normal levels.
This reduction is thought to be driven by increased production of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that helps blood vessels relax and dilate.
Spirulina algae can improve muscle strength and endurance
Exercise-induced oxidative damage is a major contributor to muscle fatigue.
Some plant foods have antioxidant properties that can help athletes and physically active people minimize this damage.
Spirulina brings great benefits in this sense, since some studies have indicated an improvement in strength and muscular endurance generated by the consumption of this food.
Spirulina algae improves the symptoms of allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis is characterized by inflammation of the nasal passages. It is triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal dander or even grain dust.
Spirulina is a popular alternative treatment for allergic rhinitis symptoms and there is evidence that it may be effective. In a study of 127 people with allergic rhinitis, 2 grams per day dramatically reduced symptoms such as nasal discharge, sneezing, nasal congestion and itching.
Recipes with spirulina algae
Spirulina is often sold in powder form and can be used to make any meal tastier, healthier and more nutritious, from smoothies to drinks , from fruit juices to yogurt , from vegan milk to fruit and vegetable concentrates.
It can also be used to prepare biscuits and other desserts , but also as a condiment for savory dishes, such as salads . It is perfect for preparing smoothies , in combination with almond or soy milk and vegetables such as baby spinach.
The important thing is to integrate this superfood into a healthy and balanced diet and, above all, not to overdo the quantities, but respect the recommended intake limits.
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