Spirulina: The Complete Plant Based Protein Source | Health Benefits

Spirulina

Spirulina is one of the oldest life forms on earth known for the longest as an endurance booster.

It is in fact among the most popular health supplements in today’s time considering it is one of the first plant-based foods in the human diet. Surprising right?

But what actually makes this ingredient a star among the ‘complete protein’ plant-based food sources? And does it even stand up to the fame it receives?

Well, here’s our effort to give you evidence around spirulina’s health benefits and the status it holds.

Spirulina: The Nutrient-Dense Food

Spirulina: The Nutrient-Dense Food

Spirulina happens to be a superfood high in many nutrients.

Let’s have a look at its origin?

A type of cyanobacteria, originally from the family of single-celled microbes known as the blue-green algae. This is an organism that grows both in fresh and saltwater

What makes it plant-based is its ability to produce energy from sunlight through photosynthesis.

Lesser-Known Fact:

Spirulina gained massive popularity when NASA used it as a dietary supplement for astronauts on space missions. Really cool right?

It has to be its ability to regulate immune functions and its anti-inflammatory properties which take place by the release of histamine by mast cells.

What about the ideal dosage?

One can opt for a standard dose of 1-3g of this green superfood but this can go up to 10g per day. Here’s a look at the nutrient profile of 10g of dried spirulina powder:

Protein: 5.7 g

Vitamin B1 (thiamine): 22% of the RDA

Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): 33% of the RDA

Vitamin B3 (niacin): 9% of the RDA

Copper: 68% of the RDA

Iron: 15-16% of the RDA

Calories: 29

Carbs: 2.0g

Moreover, this superfood actually includes almost some amount of every other nutrient that you need along with an optimal amount of magnesium, potassium, and manganese.

Here’s a suggestion! If you are looking to skip eggs, spirulina could be a great replacement for a comparable amount of protein considering it also has all essential amino acids required by the body.

Spirulina: The Powerful Antioxidant With Anti-Inflammatory Properties

As we mentioned earlier, it is because of the anti-inflammatory properties that even NASA considered it as a superfood for astronauts.

Here’s what you need to know!

Chronic inflammation happens as oxidative damage harms our DNA and cells, resulting in diseases sometimes as lethal as cancer.

The presence of antioxidants in spirulina help protect against this oxidative damage.

Interesting fact:

The antioxidant substance ‘phycocyanin’ happens to be the main component and gives spirulina the unique blue-green color.

Health Impact Of Spirulina:

A lot of people are using this superfood that can improve heart health further reducing risks of heart diseases.

For those of you who aren’t aware of its powerful health benefits, studies on spirulina have shown that it lowers “bad” LDL cholesterol and Triglyceride Levels. It also increases “good” HDL cholesterol impacting heart health in a positive way.

Let us provide scientific evidence to build your trust-

Although most studies have shown favorable results mainly with a dosage of 4.5-8g per day yet,

A study was conducted on 25 people who were suffering from type 2 diabetes. It was later discovered that only 2g of spirulina per day, significantly showed a reduction in the blood sugar levels.

There was another study on people with high cholesterol which determined that 1 g of spirulina per day resulted in lowered triglycerides by 16.3%. Furthermore, there was a reduction in the “bad” LDL by 10.1%.

In addition, research has shown that spirulina may have anti-cancer properties and is especially effective against a type of precancerous lesion of the mouth called OSMF.

Spirulina May Improve Muscle Strength & Endurance:

Often experience muscle fatigue when exercising? The reason is exercise-induced oxidative damage.

People into fitness and athletics consume plant-based foods with antioxidants to minimize this damage.

Few studies emerged showing spirulina as food for significantly reducing the fatigue time and improving muscle strength and endurance.

Can Spirulina Reduce Blood Pressure?

Heart attack, strokes, and chronic kidney disease are some of the serious diseases driven by high blood pressure. An optimal amount of spirulina for e.g. 4.5g-8g per day has shown to reduce blood pressure in individuals with normal levels.

What might be the possible reason behind this reduction in blood pressure?

Spirulina leads to an increase in the production of nitric oxide (that is otherwise massively produced by plant-based sources like beetroot which are rich in nitrates that convert to nitric oxide) leading to a lowered blood pressure.

Nitric oxide is a signaling molecule that aids blood vessels to relax and dilate, positively affecting blood levels.

The Final Verdict:

Spirulina’s title as a superfood that is ‘nutrient-dense stands true along with the crazy health benefits it has to offer.

As mentioned above, spirulina suppresses oxidation while reducing blood pressure and lowering blood sugar. It also improves blood lipids and may have anti-cancer properties.

One can simply consume spirulina in tablets and powder form. There are supplements widely available and used for their amazing health benefits.

If you want the goodness of spirulina along with other green vitamins then you can check out bGreen’s super greens and fruits that help you bridge the daily gap in your nutrition.

Read Also:

Content Rally wrapped around an online publication where you can publish your own intellectuals. It is a publishing platform designed to make great stories by content creators. This is your era, your place to be online. So come forward share your views, thoughts and ideas via Content Rally.

View all posts

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related

CBD capsules & softgels

What is the best way to consume CBD? CBD capsules & softgels!

CBD comes in various forms and each proffer unique positive and negative. It is vital to stay aware of the differences so that we can stay informed on the best options for our circumstances. But what is the easiest way to take CBD? The reality is the different forms of CBD products have some diverse ideal circumstances for use. Sometimes, the best is pure oil but CBD capsules are perfect in some other cases. A thing is too clear today as when it comes to convenience, the capsules of CBD oil are king. What are the pros of CBD capsules? The convenient way Of all the ways to consume CBD products, gel caps are the most suitable. After all, it does not get too easier than swallowing any pill. Our CBD capsules are small and it is easy to swallow the same. Further, CBD capsules are now widely available in the UK and these are small so it is easy to take them.CBD capsules are too convenient for rapid use and also, are quite discrete too. You may get weird if you consume a drop of oil in public – but pop a pill of CBD oil and nobody is going to provide you a second sight. The controlling factor Any other benefit of CBD capsules is the exact dosages. When you use oil & tinctures of CBD, then you can get an accurate idea of the doses that you are taking. But through the capsules of CBD oil, you will get to know what you are consuming each time. To exemplify, the 25 grams of CBD oil capsules comprise 25 grams of CBD for each serving. Knowing the right content of CBD is an immense benefit of softgels of CBD. Tasteless and Odorless option CBD capsules are odorless as well as tasteless. That is good news for people who do not like the taste of CBD or are worried about the effects that it gives them while breathing. Pure CBD Oil has no bad taste but definitely, it holds a distinct flavor. Most people describe the CBD taste either as earthy or grassy. It is an acquired taste for some people. CBD gel capsules proffer a free-from flavor and odor option. CBD capsules or Oil – Which one is a good option? Apologies but there is no such perfect option while making a comparison. Both pills, as well as oil, are outstanding options and each can beat the other in some specific circumstances. Let us take a look at the pros below. Pros of CBD capsules: Exact doses No taste or effects. Shelf-time is long. Convenient option Pros of CBD oil It absorbs too quickly. It is too personalized. It is quite affordable. All in all, both are reliable options available. If you take any form of CBD, then it is not at all a winning decision. Most people pick up some alternative products. People opt for oil or tinctures when they are at their place but go for softgels when they are out. It offers both approaches as per the convenience of people and you can choose the one that fits the best. Conveniently, there is a vast range of CBD products in the form of tinctures, topical, and capsules. You’re on the fence to choose the perfect one. Read Also: When is it Time to Start Considering CBD Use? Are CBD Lotions Good For Your Skin? CBD the Solution to Insomnia

READ MOREDetails
Health Tips For Hard Working Men

Health Tips For Hard Working Men

Working in a physically demanding job can come with its own unique advantages and disadvantages. If you care for your body properly and look after yourself throughout your working years, your physical job could leave you with a fitter, healthier body in old age. For others, manual labor can lead to injury and weakness over time. If you want to work hard without sacrificing your health, follow these crucial self-care tips. 1. Choose your uniform wisely: Depending on the type of job you do, you may find that the clothes and shoes you wear to work have a major impact on the way your body feels after a hard day on the job. If you’re on your feet all day, it’s absolutely essential to invest in good quality, safe footwear that will support your back and prevent fatigue and pain. Get yourself a pair of rm Williams boot shoes so you can move freely throughout the day without suffering from the many ailments that ill-fitting, poor quality boots can cause. 2. Don’t neglect protection gear: Many manual labor jobs come with a range of protective safety equipment designed to prevent accidents and injuries from occurring in the workplace. If your job requires you to wear safety goggles, hard hats, hearing protectors, or respirators, make sure you always keep these on at all times regardless of what’s going on around you. These safety measures could be the difference between a life-long disability and a healthy lifestyle. 3. Fuel up: While sitting in an office chair all day can easily lead to poor cardiovascular health and speedy weight gain, manual labor often has the opposite effect. When you’re working on your feet all day and lifting heavy objects around, your body needs adequate fuel. Make time to eat a nourishing breakfast before you head to work each day, pack a healthy, nutrient-dense lunch for your break time, and bring plenty of high protein snacks to keep you going. 4. Lift properly:  Improper lifting can easily cause serious back injuries and chronic pain, so it’s essential that you learn and practice proper heavy lifting techniques before you begin a serious manual labor job. One poor lift could leave you with real long-term difficulties, so this step is extremely important. 5. Take care of your skin: Working around plenty of pollutants and spending your days out in the sun can do some serious damage to your skin. Pre-empt that problem by wearing a high SPF sunscreen every day and moisturising your skin every time you bathe or head to bed. This should help ward off premature aging and rough, dry skin that looks unpleasant and feels uncomfortable. 6. Get into a stretching routine:  Stretching is great for your muscles, joints, and ligaments. It will improve your overall flexibility and make it easier for your body to deal with the hard work you put it through every day. This could help you avoid injuries, work more efficiently, and end the day feeling less worn out. 7. Get plenty of sleep:  A hard day at work will be far more difficult if you’re not properly rested. Head to bed at a reasonable hour and aim to get at least 8 hours of sleep every night. Your body and mind will thank you when morning arrives.

READ MOREDetails
Native Plants

Balancing Health And Ecology With Native Plants

We live in a time when our health and the environment are subjects of intense focus. In a world grappling with the complexities of climate change and wellness, how do we strike the balance between taking care of ourselves and the Earth? One surprisingly simple but effective way is by choosing the right plants for our gardens. Could the secret to a balanced life be right in our own backyards? In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore why native plants are not just a trendy gardening choice but an essential element for fostering personal and ecological well-being. The Symbiotic Relationship between Native Plants and Local Ecosystems Native plants have evolved over thousands of years in specific areas, forming complex relationships with local wildlife and insects. Unlike non-native species that are often cultivated for their aesthetic appeal alone, native plants play a crucial role in local ecosystems. Ecological Benefits of Native Plants Water Conservation: Native plants are naturally adapted to local rainfall patterns and soil types, requiring less irrigation. Soil Health: These plants often have deep root systems that hold the soil together, reducing erosion and improving soil structure. Supporting Local Biodiversity: Native plants provide essential habitats and food sources for local wildlife, including pollinators like bees and butterflies, birds, and other small mammals. By introducing native plants into your garden, you're actively participating in ecological conservation from the comfort of your home. The Psychological and Physical Health Benefits of Native Plants Gardening is therapeutic, but its benefits can be further amplified when incorporating native plants. Aesthetically Pleasing Environments Native plants, with their varied forms, colors, and textures, can create a pleasing visual tapestry throughout the year, enhancing psychological well-being. Encouragement for Outdoor Activity The appeal and ease of maintenance of a native garden often entices people to spend more time outdoors, encouraging physical activities such as walking and gardening, which are known to improve mental and physical health. Why Many People Overlook Native Plants Despite their myriad benefits, native plants are often overlooked for more ornamental, non-native species. Common Misconceptions Limited Variety: Many people think native plants offer less variety, which is not true. Aesthetic Limitations: The misconception that native plants are less attractive than exotic species also discourages people from incorporating them into their gardens. A Paradigm Shift: How Organizations Are Making a Difference There are several organizations dedicated to the cause of promoting native plants. One such organization is Garden for Wildlife, which provides extensive resources for homeowners looking to make a difference through informed gardening choices. From articles to plant databases, Garden for Wildlife helps you make knowledgeable decisions on incorporating native plants into your personal spaces. How to Get Started with Native Plants Creating a garden of native plants isn't difficult; it just requires some planning and know-how. Identify Native Plants for Your Area: Research which plants are native to your location. Garden for Wildlife has some great resources for this, including their ZIP code native plant finder. Planning: Map out your garden, considering the sun and shade patterns. Planting: Get the plants and plant them according to the specific needs of each species. Maintenance: Follow appropriate watering, pruning, and care guidelines. Challenges and How to Overcome Them Switching to a native plant garden comes with its own challenges, but these can be managed with the right approach. Knowledge Gap: It can be daunting to start from scratch. Overcome this by researching through credible sources. Adapting to New Maintenance Practices: Native plants may require different care practices compared to the plants you're accustomed to. Why Native Plants Are a Game-Changer As we navigate the complex terrains of health and ecology, it's heartening to know something as simple as choosing the right plants for our gardens can make a difference. By opting for native plants, we are not just making a conscious choice for our well-being but are also contributing to a larger ecological balance. Garden for Wildlife is here to guide you through this rewarding journey. Let's take a step toward a more sustainable and healthier lifestyle today. Ready to embark on a transformative gardening journey that benefits you and the environment? By following the insights and guidelines in this article, you're not just planting a garden; you're sowing the seeds for a healthier, more sustainable future. Read Also: 3 Best Indoor Plants For The Dining Room Unlocking Plant-Based Protein Potential: Exploring A Leading Supplement Enhancing Spaces With Greenery: The Art Of Plant Styling In Interior Design

READ MOREDetails