Spirulina: The Complete Plant Based Protein Source | Health Benefits

18 May 2021

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 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.

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Rediscovering Your Smile: Cloverdale’s Dental Bridges

Nestled in the heart of Canada, Cloverdale is a historic town located in the province of British Columbia, within the city of Surrey, part of the Greater Vancouver area. It boasts a rich history and a strong sense of community, where smiles are more than mere expressions; they are a reflection of overall well-being and confidence. However, dental issues can sometimes diminish the radiance of our smiles. Fortunately, in Cloverdale, there is a solution: dental bridges. This article explores the benefits of dental bridges and how a Cloverdale dentist can help residents of Cloverdale regain their confident smiles and oral health. Dental Bridges Unveiled Dental bridges are a renowned solution for replacing missing teeth. They comprise artificial teeth, or pontics, carefully crafted to resemble natural teeth. These points are firmly anchored to neighboring teeth or dental implants, effectively "bridging" the gap left by missing teeth. Related: How to Use Practice Analytics to Improve Your Dental Practice Why Does One Need A Dental Bridge When you have a missing tooth in between, it distorts your smile. A dental bridge can address different challenges, including: Restoring your pronunciation and the speech. Maintaining the faces’ shape. Restoring your smile. Re-adjusting the bite to distribute the force when you chew effectively. Preventing your remaining teeth from moving out. Hundreds and thousands of customers are showing their trust in the approach. The treatment approach is highly successful, and hence, it archives the trust of the care users. Dental Bridges Types The popularity of the dental bridge is increasing not only in Cloverdale but elsewhere. However, if you are looking for the four main types of dental bridges, you have the Maryland, Implant-supported, Cantilever, and the traditional. The Maryland dental bridge employs two completely natural abutment teeth teeth. They are present on each side of the gap. A traditional bride hires a dental crown. It uses a framework of either porcelain or metal bonded onto the back of the abutment teeth. Implant dental bridge is another well-known variant in this family. Here, one implant is placed surgically for every missing tooth. These implants hold the bridge in its position. If one implant for each missing tooth is not possible, the bridge may have a pontic suspended between two crowns. A cantilever bridge is held in place by a dental crown in the Cantilever dental bridge. It is fixed to the one abutment tooth. You don’t need much but one natural tooth next to the missing tooth gap. Finally, we come to the traditional dental bridge, the most popular variant of all. It can be used when natural teeth are on both sides, and the gap is created in the middle. The Advantages of Dental Bridges The efficacy of the dental bridge is beyond question. This is why the Cloverdale dentist has become popular. It has indeed come with a great solution against the teeth-related complexities ushering in new pathways of respite. However, here we discuss some of the core benefits of the treatment methodology. Restored Confidence Smiles are powerful assets, universally conveying joy and connection. Yet, the absence of teeth can shatter your confidence, making you hesitant to embrace full smiles. Cloverdale's dental bridges can be your path to renewed self-assurance, offering a natural-looking smile that harmonizes with your unique personality. Enhanced Speech Clarity Dental bridges restore speech clarity, enabling you to communicate effortlessly and with confidence in Cloverdale's diverse social settings. Reclaiming Chewing Proficiency Dining should be an enjoyable experience, where flavors dance on your palate, and textures delight your senses. However, missing teeth can limit your culinary choices and compromise your ability to chew comfortably. Dental bridges are your ticket to restored chewing functionality, allowing you to relish every meal without compromise. Navigating the Dental Bridge Procedure in Cloverdale The placement of dental bridges typically involves several steps: Initial Consultation: Begin your journey with a comprehensive consultation with a dentist who will assess your unique requirements and discuss suitable bridge options. Preparation: To ensure a secure fit for your bridge, a small amount of enamel is removed from the adjacent teeth. Impressions: Precise impressions of your teeth are taken to craft a custom bridge that perfectly matches your natural teeth. Temporary Bridge: During the crafting of your permanent bridge, you will receive a temporary one to safeguard your prepared teeth. Final Placement: Once your personalized bridge is ready, your dentist in Cloverdale will expertly remove the temporary bridge and install the permanent one, ensuring a snug fit and comfortable bite. Endurance and Longevity Dental bridges are renowned for their resilience and long lifespan. With proper care, dental bridges last between 10 to 15 years or even longer, providing a reliable solution for replacing missing teeth. Cost Evaluation The cost of dental bridges in Cloverdale can fluctuate depending on factors like the type of bridge and the materials used. It is vital to have a transparent discussion with your dentist about pricing and flexible payment options that align with your budget. Let us mention these factors that determine the entire cost of the treatment. Different variables affect the pricing. Firstly, the price is determined by the number of teeth the care user needs to fill the gap. The prices are also determined by the materials like composite resin, zirconia, or metal that are covered in the resins. Another determinant of the price is the complexity or difficulty the expert faces in placing the teeth. Geography is also an aspect that determines the overall cost of the treatment. The treatment cost in Cloverdale may be more or less than in some places. Finally, the point that we must not miss here is the additional treatment that is required for some other dental problems. Putting The Discussion To A Close Your smile is a radiant facet of your identity and self-esteem, and getting dental bridges from an experienced Cloverdale dentist can reignite its brilliance. With their aesthetic appeal and functional advantages, coupled with the expertise of Cloverdale’s dental leaders, you can regain the beauty and functionality of your smile. Hence, you can bank on Cloverdale’s dental bridge. Read Also: Emergency Dental Clinic Immediate Care When You Need It Most Radiant Smiles: A Guide To Different Types Of Dental Implants Attracting New Dental Patients: Best Strategies For Growth

Seven Best Meal Replacement Ideas For Weight Loss

In a world where there is an endless variety of yummy, unhealthy, and fatty foods, finding something healthy to eat to stay fit can be very challenging. For you, in daily life, there is so much temptation to resist. To stay healthy and in shape, you need to stop binging on the cookie in your pantry, quit getting a quick snack from the fast-food chain's drive-thru, and resisting the urge to have a tiny bite of the cake in your fridge. This temptation happens when you just can't make enough time to cook a healthy meal for yourself. But don't worry, we have the perfect solution for you! Your blender can save your time by providing you with some healthy smoothies and soups that will replace your unhealthy and fatty meals. Yes, you read that correctly. The best meal replacement shakes and soups contain all the nutrients and calories in a specific quantity needed by your body. There are many drinks, bars, and soups at stores considered as a substitute for a substantial meal taken two or three times per day. These drinks help you lose weight faster. How? When you replace your full meal with a glass of a shake, you intend to take in fewer calories but more nutrients, protein, minerals, and other critical healthful substances. Protein shakes also reduces the hunger cravings that result in unhealthy eating. Best Meal replacement drinks are easy to make, and due to fewer calories, balanced carbs, proteins, and fats, they stabilize your blood sugar levels. You may be eating your perfect meal on time but can yet be lacking calcium, potassium, iron, and vitamins. Hence, taking the protein bars and shakes will help you to meet the daily requirement of essential vitamins and minerals for your body. Most people ask if the replacements shakes or bars are healthy and safe to take in or not. As far as the product contains no harmful ingredient, it is safe to consume. There are several ways to lose weight through the best meal replacement products. Following are the seven best meal replacement ideas for achieving a healthy weight loss: 1. Protein Bars In the modern world, every other person is following some type of diet to lose weight. To aid the weight loss process, people supplement their regular meals with different low-calorie food items. For example, Protein bars have now become one of the most popular meal replacement choices. They are also known as nutritional bars and tend to contain a high amount of protein and healthy carbs. They carry five to ten grams of fat, fiber, and 25 to 30 grams of carbohydrates. Protein bars help to fulfill different purposes of a human body. Some people intend to replace meals by protein bars to switch a variety of nutrients in a meal. Moreover, you have to eat protein bars in moderation between the meals to reduce weight. Overindulging in protein bars may lead to constipation and will slow down your weight loss. When weight loss becomes your primary concern, you then know what products to take inside of your body. Protein can affect your metabolism and body weight. It reduces the level of ghrelin, also known as the hunger hormone in your body. Hence, choosing the right protein bar with optimal nutritional value and low sugar content will help you to lose weight. 2. Protein Shakes Replacing your meal with a healthy shake is the quickest and convenient way to lose weight. When you are using the best meal replacement shake, you should acknowledge the amount of protein, carbs, fiber, calories, and other essential, healthy supplements you're taking in. Protein shakes provide at least one-third of your daily intake to make you stay healthier. Not all shakes have healthy ingredients. Shakes that contain artificial flavors or preservatives are not the ones for your body if your goal is to lose weight. Protein shakes that contain more protein helps in better and faster weight loss. In favor of losing weight, protein shake must contain 15-25 grams of protein, 10-15 healthy fat, and 18 vitamins and minerals. Getting enough of these nutrients can boost up your metabolism and help in losing extra fat. 3. Low-Calorie Soups Meal replacements soups are high in protein and less in carbs/fats. Replacing your at least two meals with diet soups can reduce your overall calorie intake. Not all soups you see are for the same purpose. Some contain vegetable oil and sugar in high amounts. Healthy vegetable-based soup can help in reducing the calories gained during the meal. You can also add a source of protein to your soup, which by controlling your appetite, aids in weight loss. Sources of protein in your soup can be skinless chicken breast and beans that are low in fat. 4. Salads Not all salads help you to lose weight. Most of the salads do contain more fats and calories than others. Replacing your meal is a common way to lose weight by most of the dieters. A high-calorie meal, when a healthy salad replaces it, washes away all the unwanted calories from the body. Green leaves are the best friends of dieters. Using a diet-friendly salad can help you lose weight in no time. Beans can also be added to the salad as they are high in protein and fiber. Choose healthy fats for your salad, such as avocado, olives, almonds, pine nuts, and sunflower seeds are few sources of fat for your salad. 5. Oats Who isn't familiar with oats? Oats contain several nutritional benefits. For people on a diet, oatmeal is the favorite breakfast to have. The oatmeal diet is usually for the winter season. They provide enough fiber to the human body to lose weight. Replacing your meal with oatmeal can be beneficial to your health as just one-half cup of oats contains two grams of fiber, 3 grams of protein, and guess what? Zero grams of sugar. They are also a great source of calcium and iron and are low in calories and fat. It makes you feel full longer than other foods as it helps to boost your metabolism. 6. Smoothies Smoothies are a great way to lose weight when you are in a rush. Meal replacement smoothies are a healthier alternative that contains 200-300 calories and helps reduce calorie intake. Not just any smoothies, but you should select the one that is rich in protein for meal replacement. Two smoothies a day can be enough for you to get several protein and nutrients needed by the body. Make sure the smoothie you are taking in is lower in calories. Smoothies that focus on fruits, vegetables, and protein with healthy fats are essential and a great source of losing weight. 7. Granola Bars When it's about diet and meal replacement, people immediately switch to eating breakfast bars and granola bars instead of taking proper meals. There are several other bars apart from protein bars, such as granola bars. You can eat granola bars or any other healthier breakfast bars in the morning. Your breakfast bars should contain at least 5 grams of protein and 35% of calories. Some healthy bars to consider are Clif bars, Odwalla bars, Luna bars, and crunchy Granola bars. Conclusion The best Meal replacement products, when taken in moderation, can help you reduce weight in no time. On the other hand, you should remember that not all shakes, drinks, bars, or salads are healthy for you. You should be very careful and selective of what you eat since a high amount of sugar and carbs can slow down your weight loss. Read Also: 5 Best Stimulant-Free Fat Burners Only the Best Membrane Protein from Calixar Why is Fitness Important for Weight Loss? Best Weight Loss Program to Lose 20 Pounds

The Chemistry of Rush Poppers: What Every User Should Know

Rush poppers have long held a place in popular culture, often surrounded by curiosity, misinterpretation, and a hint of intrigue. These small bottles, typically found in adult novelty stores, online or on rump-pump.de, promise their users a brief rush of euphoria. Over the decades, rush poppers have seen varied responses from the public, leading to numerous myths and misconceptions. Understanding its chemistry and effects on the body is crucial, as with any substance. This article delves into the science behind rush poppers, breaking down what every user—and potential user—should know about their composition and impact. What are Rush Poppers? Rush poppers, often referred to as 'poppers,' have a history dating back to the late 19th century. Initially introduced as a treatment for angina, their medicinal use dwindled with the advent of more advanced cardiac medications. However, their recreational popularity surged during the 1970s and 1980s, particularly within the gay community. Most commonly, rush poppers are found in small liquid-filled bottles under various brand names, with "Rush" being one of the most recognized. When inhaled, these volatile liquids produce a short-lived, euphoric 'rush,' contributing to their enduring allure. The primary ingredient in these formulations is alkyl nitrites. While they were once primarily amyl nitrites, the composition has shifted over the years, with isobutyl nitrite now being more prevalent in today's market. Their legal status varies globally, with some countries allowing their sale as 'room odorizers' or 'leather cleaners' to bypass health regulations. Nonetheless, the cultural footprint of rush poppers remains significant, prompting occasional and regular users to delve deeper into their chemistry and effects. The Chemistry Behind the Rush The potent effects of rush poppers can be attributed to their chief chemical constituents: alkyl nitrites. Alkyl nitrites, whether amyl, butyl, or isobutyl, are volatile organic compounds that, when inhaled, rapidly enter the bloodstream. Their fundamental action revolves around the relaxation of smooth muscles found throughout the body, including the walls of blood vessels. When an individual inhales the fumes from rush poppers, the alkyl nitrites lead to vasodilation or the widening of blood vessels. This sudden expansion causes a rapid decrease in blood pressure, resulting in the characteristic 'head-rush' sensation. The brain experiences a brief influx of oxygen, producing euphoria and lightheadedness. This effect is often accompanied by sensations of warmth, dizziness, and an increased heart rate. But what's the chemistry making this happen? Alkyl nitrites function as a source of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule in the body. Nitric oxide's release prompts the relaxation of vascular smooth muscles, creating the vasodilatory effect. While the experience may be exhilarating for some, it directly results from a chemical interaction with the body's physiological systems. The fleeting nature of rush poppers' effects, which usually last just a few minutes, is due to the rapid metabolism and elimination of alkyl nitrites from the system. How Do Rush Poppers Work in the Body? To fully grasp the rush and allure of poppers, one must delve into their interaction with our physiological systems. Upon inhalation, the vapors from rush poppers are rapidly absorbed by the lungs into the bloodstream. Once in the blood, alkyl nitrites exert their primary effect: relaxing smooth muscles. This is not limited to vascular muscles but extends to other body areas, which explains some of the sensations users report. The immediate dilation of blood vessels causes a swift drop in blood pressure, inducing a feeling of lightheadedness. This 'head rush' is, in essence, a surge of oxygenated blood to the brain, accompanied by a warm sensation, potential facial flushing, and an accelerated heart rate. Additionally, the relaxing effect of rush poppers on other smooth muscles can lead to enhanced sensations, particularly during intimate activities, which contributes significantly to their recreational appeal. While the sensations might be described as intense by users, they're typically short-lived, often waning within a few minutes. This transient nature results from the body's efficient processing and elimination of the inhaled alkyl nitrites. The Risks and Safety Concerns Like any substance that has a profound effect on the body, rush poppers come with their set of risks and safety concerns. While many users report minimal adverse effects when used sporadically and responsibly, potential dangers can emerge with misuse. One immediate concern with rush poppers is the potential for a sharp drop in blood pressure. The additive effect can lead to fainting, dizziness, or even more severe cardiovascular issues for individuals already on medications or with conditions that lower blood pressure. Moreover, alkyl nitrites can produce harmful effects when combined with other substances. For instance, when used alongside erectile dysfunction medications like Viagra or Cialis, there's a heightened risk of a dangerous drop in blood pressure. There's also the concern of chemical burns. Given the volatile nature of the liquid, if it comes in direct contact with the skin, it can cause irritation or burns. Plus, ingestion or swallowing can lead to severe poisoning and requires immediate medical attention. On the legal front, the sale and possession of rush poppers vary by jurisdiction. In some regions, selling them for human consumption is prohibited, leading vendors to market them as 'room deodorizers' or 'cleaning agents'. This guise, however, does not reduce the risks associated with their misuse. While rush poppers might promise a fleeting euphoria, users should approach with informed caution, understanding the potential ramifications on their health. Common Misconceptions and Myths The allure and mystique surrounding rush poppers have created many myths and misconceptions. One common fallacy is that poppers are entirely harmless, a belief stemming from their short-lived effects. While they might not lead to long-term dependency like other substances, their misuse can pose significant health risks, as previously discussed. Another myth is that they're aphrodisiacs. While rush poppers can heighten sensations and relax muscles, attributing aphrodisiac properties to them is misleading. Their physiological effects might enhance intimate experiences but don't inherently increase sexual desire. Being armed with facts over fiction is essential when considering or using poppers. Conclusion The world of rush poppers, veiled in intrigue, promises a brief, euphoric escape. Yet, understanding their chemistry, physiological impact, and associated risks is paramount. By being informed, users can make safer decisions, ensuring their experiences with poppers are enjoyable and without undue harm. Read Also: How To Make Doing Yoga At Home Interesting 11 Effective Ways To Improve Testosterone Levels In Your Body What Is Garcinia Cambogia And How It Can Help Your Health? What Are Virtual Reality Workouts And How Will They Affect Exercise?

Spirulina: The Complete Plant Based Protein Source | Health Benefits