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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Try Out These Healthy Cake Options

Often cake lovers are asking about whether angel food cake is healthy or is carrot cake healthy. This is the self-evident thing which should come to every person’s mind who loves the sweet taste of cakes and also continuous about their fitness. So healthy cake exist or not? Be it weddings, anniversaries, baby showers, or farewells/graduations. Many of the brands are declaring the cake mix healthy, but is that really healthy? The list is endless. We have customized the flavor, which is perfect for Indian taste buds, and we also make fusion cakes. When it comes to healthy cakes, you can make them by using whole wheat or other grain flour. You can also consume palm sugar, jaggery, stevia, and fruit sugar to sweeten your cake. Avoid using sugar syrup. Try to use organic ingredients along with the Flourless cakes, which is also another option. Checkout Four Best Healthy Cake Options Here are some of the best healthy cake options you can send to your loved ones. Read on! 1. Healthy Multigrain Fiber Dry Cake Keeping yourself healthy doesn't always mean cutting things out of your diet; It also means including all the essential nutrients in your diet plan. So, the intake of multigrain fiber will be like a boost to your diet. This healthy multigrain fiber-rich healthy cake provides you with both health and taste. What more could a health lover ask for? Do you know that these multigrain fibers help in maintaining your weight, consequently reducing the risk of obesity? The cake also aids in digestion and lowers cholesterol levels. There is no doubt that brown moms will be most happy to see their kids serving this healthy dish. Why not send it as a birthday cake to your beloved? 2. Tea Cake Teacake is basically a no-frills, loaf-shaped cake with multiple possible flavors, which you can have with tea/coffee. They ideally have no icing or topping and are also served as warm slices. These healthy cakes are made from regular ingredients like butter, sweetener and flour, eggs, leavening agents, and flavorings of choice. But, traditionally, tea cake is from England and is a yeast-leavened sweet bread. 3. Sticky Cakes You must be searching for many healthy cake recipes but making a cake is not an easy task. While it can be baked using a variety of ingredients, some of our loved ones may be allergic to some of these food items, such as gluten and grains. Baking a cake without your favorite ingredients can seem a bit odd, but with others in mind and a few adjustments, you can make a delicious cake everyone will love equally. You can mix in sticky ingredients and chocolate. This is a great-looking and tasting cake! 4. Genoise Cake "Nothing expresses love for cake than a slice of Genoise cake. Beat some eggs, sugar, and flour, and let it rest, so it blooms with love and flavor. If you're not the kitchen type of person or the Genoise cake doesn't turn out the way you expected, then you can always find a wide range of genoise cakes in Chandigarh, Delhi, Bangalore, and all the major cities. Which cakes are healthy? So, we've cleared the air for you. Unlike any buttercream or fondant cakes, dry cakes are known as good for your body and health. Let's read about some health benefits of eating healthy cakes: A. Energy Source Sugar and flour are the two main ingredients of dry healthy cake recipes. These two ingredients are excellent sources of carbohydrates: Carbohydrates fuel the muscles, nervous system, and the entire body with energy. The fat present in the cake is also a good source of vitality. B. Strength Sweet confections like cakes supply proteins to the body. Cakes are baked with milk and eggs; Both are powerhouses of protein. Milk is rich in calcium which enhances the functioning of bones. Also, the dry cake is garnished with almonds and cashews, which strengthen the immune system, as nuts contain vitamins. C. Full Of Good Things Cakes are full of good things that provide enough vitamins to your body. For example, chocolate cake contains chocolate antioxidants. Vitamin-A carrot is found in carrot cake. Wherein Coffee and Walnut healthy Cake contain omega-3 oily walnuts. Some cake ingredients include what could have been more healthy ingredients found in diet foods. Related Resource: 8 Awesome Health Benefits Of Dark Chocolate D. Healthy Gut "Healthy Gut, Healthy You." Dry fruit cakes filled with fresh and ripe berries, cherries, apples, and pineapples are a storehouse of fiber. Foods with great fiber help keep the digestive system healthy. Dry, healthy carrot cakes also help in boosting digestion. Wrapping It Up: So, whenever your tastebuds crave cake, and your body warns you not to fall into the trap, you know how to silence the silence and order dry cake online. If you need more clarification about the market-available commercial-made cake ingredients, you can bake it at your home and enjoy the delicious taste of the healthy cake. Read Also: Which Edible is Right for You? 6 Delicious Cakes That You Must Try This Winter The Best Ways Cake Makers Can Pack Their Cakes

How to Treat the Symptoms of 5 Common Gastrointestinal Conditions

Everyone experiences heartburn from time to time or has the occasional upset stomach. But for those who experience these symptoms more frequently, it could be a sign of long-term Gastrointestinal Conditions. According to the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, 60 to 70 million people in the U.S. are affected by gastrointestinal issues. But what exactly is a" gastrointestinal issue," and what parts of your body can experience the impact? Gastrointestinal Health 101 The gastrointestinal system gives your body what it needs to function. The system breaks down food, extracts nutrients from it, and converts these nutrients into energy. It also protects your body against harmful substances by blocking them from your bloodstream. The gastrointestinal tract primarily consists of the following: Esophagus: A hollow tube running through the neck and chest that connects the mouth to the stomach. Muscles in the esophagus push food into the stomach. Stomach: A large organ that holds foods and breaks them down using enzymes and acids. Liver: The organ that filters toxins from the blood and produce bile, which further helps break down food into proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Gallbladder: A sac-like organ that stores the bile the liver produces then releases it as necessary. Pancreas: An organ that produces enzymes like insulin, which aids in the breakdown of sugars. Small intestine: As the stomach passes along food, this organ starts breaking it down while absorbing the majority of its nutrients. Large intestine: This organ contains billions of bacteria that turn food into waste (feces). At this same time, the large intestines remove water and electrolytes from what is left of the food for your body's use. Rectum: A small space at the end of the large intestine provides temporary storage for waste. When you eat something, each of these organs plays a role. To kick off the process, saliva begins to break down food. With the help of other enzymes, food continues breaking down as your system propels it by muscular contractions through the digestive tract. This process is called peristalsis. Gastrointestinal organs and their fluids exist in a delicate balance. Diet, stress, and illness can upset this balance and cause pain or discomfort. Common Gastrointestinal Conditions and Disorders There are a variety of common gastrointestinal (GI) disorders like constipation, diarrhea, and acid reflux. Though some Gastrointestinal Conditions are genetic and outside of your control, you can still prevent many complications or subdue symptoms by eating a balanced diet, practicing healthy bowel habits, and following the CDC guidelines for cancer screening. Some common disorders—like celiac disease, gastroesophageal reflux disease, irritable bowel syndrome, lactose intolerance, and leaky gut syndrome—are generally manageable with proper care and direction from medical professionals. If you experience severe pain or think you may have a more serious condition, see your doctor as soon as possible. 1. Celiac Disease Celiac disease is an immune response to gluten, a protein found in wheat, rye, and barley. People with this problem cannot eat food made from these substances because it triggers a response in their small intestine, which over time becomes inflamed and unable to absorb nutrients. If you have celiac disease, you'll feel sick after eating something with gluten. Symptoms include bloating and gas, abdominal pain, fatigue, and nausea. Though there's presently no cure, most people who follow a strict gluten-free diet can reduce flare-ups and promote intestinal healing. 3. GERD Gastroesophageal reflux disease (or GERD) is a condition where your stomach acid flows back into your esophagus, irritating the esophagus's lining. It is essentially the same as acid reflux, except the symptoms are more intense and frequent. Common symptoms include a burning sensation in your chest after eating, having difficulty swallowing, and feeling like there's a lump in your throat. You may also regurgitate food or sour liquid. People with GERD often feel worse at night, which can cause other problems like a chronic cough, laryngitis, asthma, and disrupted sleep. There are over-the-counter remedies such as antacids and H2 blockers, but more intense symptoms may require prescription medication. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, eating large meals, or eating late at night can aggravate GERD. 3. Irritable Bowel Syndrome Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a common GI disorder that affects the large intestine. If you have this chronic condition, you will feel abdominal pain, bloating, gas, diarrhea, and constipation. While the exact cause of IBS is unknown, certain factors play a role. Someone with IBS may have abnormalities in their digestive system or may have had a bacterial or viral infection that left an overgrowth of bacteria in the intestines. Changes in gut microbes can also lead to IBS. Though there is no cure for IBS, taking medications, and making lifestyle changes can alleviate the symptoms. For example, you can exercise regularly, eat smaller meals, and focus on minimizing stress. In terms of regulating your diet, you can try consuming more probiotics and limiting caffeine, dairy products, and spicy foods. Medicalprices.co.uk has a complete guide about IBS. 4. Lactose Intolerance Lactose intolerant individuals cannot break down lactose, the natural sugar in milk. If you're lactose intolerant, your small intestine doesn't produce enough lactase (the enzyme) to digest lactose (the milk sugar). Undigested lactose then moves into your large intestine, where it interacts with the bacteria, causing bloating, gas, and diarrhea. Aside from avoiding dairy products altogether, lactose intolerants can take over-the-counter lactase enzyme tablets that aid in dairy digestion. 5. Leaky Gut Syndrome As part of the digestive tract, the intestines allow water and nutrients to pass through their walls while blocking harmful substances. The ease with which substances pass through the intestinal wall is called intestinal permeability. When this permeability becomes compromised, toxins and bacteria may escape from the intestines into the bloodstream. This condition is called a leaky gut syndrome, and if left unchecked, it can cause inflammation throughout the body. Symptoms may include bloating, gas, food sensitivity, fatigue, and skin problems. Though more research needs to be conducted on this condition, a few probable causes include: Consuming too much sugar or alcohol Long term use of anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen Deficiencies in vitamins A and D and zinc Chronic inflammation throughout the body Stress Bacterial imbalance in the intestines Yeast overgrowth in the digestive system To reduce symptoms, you can work on improving your overall gut health. First, you can limit your carb intake, as harmful bacteria thrive on sugar. You can also increase the number of beneficial bacteria in your body by eating foods with probiotics such as yogurt, kimchi, and sauerkraut. You may also want to consider powdered collagen protein supplements. Collagen is a naturally occurring protein that gives structure to connective tissues, ligaments, and skin. The protein also provides structure to blood vessels and may strengthen compromised intestinal walls. Avoiding a Pain in the Gut While some gastrointestinal conditions can be severe, other GI issues and symptoms are common and manageable with lifestyle changes. If you maintain a healthy diet with your unique gastrointestinal needs in mind, you can treat your symptoms and live free of gut pain. 6 Effective Ways to Improve Your Mental Health Why Water Filter is Important to Improve Your Health? Symptoms and Effects of Co-occurring Disorder on Human Health 10 healthy habits to improve your health

Early Signs Of Oral Cancer: What You Need To Know?

Early signs of oral cancer are persistent mouth sores, unexplained bleeding, difficulty swallowing, and changes in voice. In such cases, you must visit an oncologist, an expert who deals with cancer diagnosis and treatment. Oral cancer is one of the most common cancers worldwide. It can affect the mouth, tongue, gums, and throat. In fact, there are several factors that contribute to its development. These include tobacco use, excessive alcohol consumption, prolonged sun exposure, and infections like HPV. However, early detection plays a crucial role in increasing the chances of successful treatment. Also, it helps in improving outcomes. In this article, you will get details about the early signs of oral cancer and what you should be mindful of. Hence, to learn more, read on to the end of the article. What Is Oral Cancer? Oral cancer is one of the most common forms of neck/head cancer. Generally, it affects people above 60 years of age. In fact, oral cancer first affects your lips, tongue, mouth roof, and mouth floor. Apart from that, it also affects your oropharynx, which is the last part of your tongue. Also, it might affect the roof of your mouth, the sides and the back of your throat, and your tonsils. At first, oral cancer can look like a common problem in your mouth and your lips. For instance, you can see white patches or bleeding sores. Basically, the difference between a common problem and a potential cancer is that the problems do not go away. Here, if you leave the problems without any treatment for a long time, it can spread through your mouth and your throat. Moreover, it will also spread to other areas of your head and neck. 8 Common Warning Signs of Oral Cancer You Shouldn't Ignore Recognizing the early signs of oral cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes. Here are eight common symptoms you must watch for and discuss with a cancer specialist promptly. 1. Presence of White/Red Patches in the Mouth A classic sign of potential oral cancer is the presence of white or red patches in the mouth without any reason. Patches can occur on the tongue, roof of the mouth, inner cheeks, or gums. Patches can be painful sometimes but are usually asymptomatic. However, you must not ignore them. If you see any of these patches extending more than a few weeks, visit an oncologist for a checkup at Apollo Hospital Belapur. Here, you will get a thorough examination. 2. Persistent Mouth Sores Oral cancer can be indicated by mouth sores that do not heal within two weeks. The sores may be on the tongue, inside the cheeks, or gums, or on the roof of the mouth. However, getting sores in the mouth is quite common. Still, you must let an oncologist evaluate sores that don’t improve. Don’t ignore the sores if they are painless or persistent. It could mean something more serious. 3. Difficulty Swallowing or Chewing Pain or discomfort when swallowing or chewing food may be a sign of oral cancer. When there is a tumor blocking the throat or esophagus, difficulty swallowing or dysphagia often occurs. In some cases, this symptom may be accompanied by a feeling that food gets stuck in the throat or chest. However, if this continues, it is important to see a specialist to help diagnose any underlying health issue early on. 4. Unexplained Bleeding Unexplained bleeding on the inside of the mouth is a cause for concern. It could be blood in your saliva or while you brush your teeth. However, if there is any unexplained bleeding from the gums, tongue, or mouth, you must immediately visit a healthcare professional. Apart from that, bleeding from your gums can be a sign of a minor gum problem. However, if it’s consistent or unusual, it could mean something more serious, such as oral cancer. If you are bleeding, don’t hesitate to visit the best oncologist in Mumbai to get it evaluated. 5. Numbness or Pain in the Mouth or Jaw If you have numbness or persistent pain in the mouth or jaw that doesn’t go away with over-the-counter pain relief, don’t ignore it. This may mean that cancer is affecting the nerves in your mouth or jaw area. This pain can get worse over time and often comes with other symptoms, such as difficulty moving the jaw or feeling fullness in the mouth. Hence, you must consult a medical expert. Basically, the expert can help in figuring out the reason behind it and suggesting reasonable treatment alternatives. 6. Unexplained Weight Loss Sudden weight loss, especially if it is unintentional, can be a sign of a number of health conditions, including oral cancer. Cancer cells can interfere with your body’s metabolism, leading to weight loss. Moreover, if you get sudden weight loss along with other symptoms such as mouth sores, pain, or difficulty swallowing, see a medical expert as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can enhance the prognosis and treatment options for oral cancer. 7. Changes in Voice or Hoarseness If you find that your voice or hoarseness doesn’t go away, it could be because oral cancer is affecting your vocal cords or the area around them. If the hoarseness lasts more than a couple of weeks, it’s a good idea to consult an oncologist. Any change in voice should be evaluated to rule out any serious condition, including oral cancer. 8. Lumps or Swelling in the Neck Signs that the cancer may have spread to nearby lymph nodes include swelling or lumps in the neck. At first, these lumps may be painless, but they can become tender as the disease progresses. If you see any lumps or swelling in your neck, you should see a doctor right away. An oncologist will evaluate these lumps. Also, the expert will ensure an accurate diagnosis to find whether these lumps are cancerous. Activities that Increase Oral Cancer The following are some of the major activities that increase oral cancer: Smoking (cigarettes, pipes, and cigars) Other tobacco products include chewing tobacco, snuff, water pipes, dip, etc. Drinking excessive amounts of Alcohol daily. Spending a lot of time under the sun without protecting the lips. Having the Human Papillomavirus (HPV). Having a history of oral cancer in the family. Detecting Oral Cancer: The Way Forward Recognizing the early signs of oral cancer is critical for effective treatment and improving your overall prognosis. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s essential to seek professional medical advice promptly. For instance, the Apollo Hospital Belapur, located in Navi Mumbai, is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities. It has expert oncologists who specialize in diagnosing and treating oral cancer. You can consult the best oncologist at Apollo Hospital for a thorough evaluation and a personalized treatment plan. Basically, you must stay vigilant and consult an expert as soon as you notice unusual symptoms. This way, you can increase your chances of early detection, ensuring that your oral health remains in the best condition possible. Do you have more suggestions to add on how to detect oral cancer? Please share your ideas and opinions in the comments section below. Read Also: 5 Skin Cancer Warning Symptoms & Early Signs to Know How Talcum Powder & Ovarian Cancer Is Related?

Spirulina: The Complete Plant Based Protein Source | Health Benefits