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Spirulina Nutrition and Origin

What is Spirulina?

Let’s take this a step back and detail out the endemicity of Spirulina. Spirulina, in essence, is a byproduct of cultivating Algae. There are literally thousands of different types of algae, but three are by far the most popular: spirulina, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) , and chlorella. F “They all have very high concentrations of nutrients and vitamins, including protein, iron, potassium, zinc, calcium, and B vitamins.

Origins of Spirulina :

Spirulina is a blue-green microalgae that typically grows in freshwater lakes, natural springs, and saltwater in subtropical and tropical climates. Like a plethora of nutritionally opulent superfoods, spirulina isn’t new. In fact, research suggests the ingredient has been consumed in places like central Africa for centuries.

It was first discovered by Spanish Scientist Hernando Cortez and Conquistadors in 1519. Cortez observed that Spirulina was consumed by the Aztecs for nutrition and various other purposes during his visit to Lake Texcoco in the Valley of Mexico.

Another botanist, Pierre Dangeard, published a report on the consumption of dihé by the Kanembu people near Lake Chad (Dangeard, 1940). He also discovered the health benefits of Spirulina after observing that it was the main source of food for flamingos living around the lake.

In 1967 spirulina was established as a “wonderful future food source” in the International Association of Applied Microbiology (Sasson, 1997).

What is Spirulina Nutritionally Opulent In ?

Spirulina contains a vast array of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, all of which are key for promoting health. One heaped teaspoon (7 grams) of spirulina contains the following nutrients:

Total Calories – 20
Protein – 4.02 grams
Carbohydrates – 1.7 grams
Fat – 0.54 grams
Fiber – 0.3 grams

Now, if you compare that with any other rich source of nutrition, it is well demonstrated that Spirulina has a decisive edge in its nutritional density. Furthermore, Spirulina is 100% Vegetarian, making it a unique source of protein that is environmentally friendly as well.

Consumability

The two most common forms of commercially available spirulina are powder and tablets. It’s also an ingredient in some protein and energy-boosting powder mixes. You can stir a small spoonful of spirulina powder into a glass of water or juice and drink it straight, or you can add some to a smoothie. Be warned: Just a small amount of deeply-pigmented spirulina will change the color of your drink into a deep blue-green, almost black.

What is the perfect dosage of Spirulina I should consume?

The doses used in studies of spirulina vary considerably, ranging from 1 to 8 grams per day. It alters from person to person, and what results you seek from Spirulina consumption other than to reap its general immune system boosting benefits.

Regular consumption can provide benefits in:
1.Improving muscle performance
2.Improving blood glucose control
3.Reducing cholesterol levels
4.For lowering blood pressure
5.For preventing and protecting against liver damage

Sources:
World Food And Agriculture Organization’s Review On Culture, Production And Use Of Spirulina As Food For Humans And Feeds For Domestic Animals And Fish