One of the superfoods that has been gaining popularity in recent years is spirulina, a type of superfood that has been gaining popularity in recent years is spirulina. Spirulina, a type of algae that has been turned into a nutritional supplement for its incredible properties.
We tell you where spirulina comes from, what its health benefits are and how you can take it. health benefits and how you can take this food to take advantage of its nutritional to take advantage of its nutritional contributions.
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What is spirulina?
Spirulina has been popularized as a type of algae, but the truth is that it actually comes from a type of cyanobacteria known as “blue algae”..
Although its consumption has not been popularized until recently in modern societies, this food was already used in Mesoamerican cultures such as that of the Aztecs, as well as in some regions near Lake Chad in Africa, where this product is abundant.
Since 1965, its properties began to be studied, and upon discovering its multiple nutritional benefits, the exploitation of the product was systematized, and it is currently sold as a dietary supplement. currently sold as a dietary supplement..
Spirulina for consumption can be found mainly in the form of tablets or capsules, being used as a nutritional supplement, but it is also popular in powdered form, which can be easily included in juices and smoothies.
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10 properties and benefits of spirulina
Spirulina is a food with many nutritional and health benefits, being an ideal product to use as a supplement.being an ideal product to use as a supplement. We will tell you about them below.
1. It contains all kinds of nutrients
Spirulina contains a large dose of all kinds of nutrients.It is very rich in protein (4 grams per 7 grams of product), vitamins B1, B2 and B3, iron, magnesium, potassium, omega 3 and omega 6, as well as containing small amounts of almost all the nutrients necessary for our body. In addition, these are more easily absorbed than those of other types of food.
2. Regulates bad cholesterol
Another of the benefits of spirulina is that it helps to reduce bad cholesterol and the presence of triglycerides, while it helps to increase the presence of triglycerides.while it helps to increase the presence of good cholesterol. This makes it an ideal food to prevent related diseases, such as heart attacks,
3. Antioxidant
Spirulina is also a great source of antioxidantssuch as chlorophyll or carotenoids. Another of its antioxidants is phycocyanin, which helps fight the presence of free radicals and helps eliminate dangerous cells, which helps prevent certain types of cancer. This substance is what gives this seaweed its bluish-green color.
4. Anti-inflammatory
This same substance, phycocyanin, also gives spirulina its natural anti-inflammatory effects. natural anti-inflammatory effectshelping to reduce damage to inflamed tissues.
5. Rich in iron
Spirulina is one of the most iron-rich foodsIt is one of the reasons why it is highly recommended by the WHO. In addition, the type of iron it contains, being of organic vegetable origin, is easily absorbed by the body.
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6. Reduces blood pressure and sugar levels
Spirulina is also rich in nitric oxide, which promotes relaxation and dilation of blood vessels. promotes the relaxation and dilation of blood vessels, promoting circulationIt also promotes blood circulation and helps to reduce blood pressure.
The same happens with the levels of sugar in the body, being beneficial as a supplement in cases of diabetes.
7. Strengthens the defenses
The main antioxidant component present in spirulina, phycocyanin, helps to increase the level of T-lymphocytes in the body, an important part of the immune system.an important part of the immune system. These lymphocytes help protect us from cellular abnormalities that can cause infections or diseases such as cancer, so they play an important part in fighting it.
8. Improves muscular endurance
The antioxidant properties of this type of blue-green algae help to minimize muscle damage that can be caused by oxidative damage after intense exercise. Spirulina helps to improve muscular endurance and even muscular strength..
9. Improves allergies
Thanks to its anti-inflammatory properties, this superfood is also beneficial in treating the symptoms of allergic rhinitis. beneficial in treating the symptoms of allergic rhinitis, or any other allergy characterized by inflammation of the nasal passages.or any other allergy characterized by inflammation of the nasal passages.
10. Helps to lose weight
Another benefit that has made spirulina popular is its effect on weight loss diets. This food contains a type of amino acid, phenylalanine, which has a satiating effect and helps to lose weight. has a satiating effect and helps to reduce appetite.. That is why it can be a good ally when it comes to weight loss. In addition, it contains many nutrients in few calories, which makes it an ideal supplement.
How to take spirulina algae
As we mentioned before, spirulina is mainly marketed in capsule, tablet or powder form.Spirulina can also be found fresh or included in other types of food.
It can be consumed in tablets or capsules as a nutritional supplement and according to the package directions. If consumed in powder form, it can be mixed alone with water or be added to smoothies and shakes..
It is recommended to start consuming 1 to 3 grams a day, and increase the daily dose once a day.and increase the daily dose once it is verified that the body’s reaction is good, since not everyone tolerates it in the same way. If you notice adverse side effects, stop taking it immediately.
If you want to take this food as an aid to weight loss, it is recommended to take it before meals, so you can benefit from its satiating effect.
Contraindications of spirulina
Despite being a food of vegetable origin, with great nutritional and beneficial properties for health, it should be consumed with caution.
First of all, it is necessary to be sure that it is of reliable origin and of good quality.There are cultures that do not pass any type of control and can present contamination.
Taking this type of contaminated seaweed could cause stomach pain, nausea, vomiting or even liver damage.
It is contraindicated in case of kidney problems or hyperthyroidism.. In case of other diseases, in case of pregnancy or during breastfeeding, it is recommended to consult health professionals before starting its consumption.
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