pirulina, most popularly known as blue-green algae is a microscopic, filamentous cyanobacterium, which derives its name from the spiral or helical nature of its filaments. It has a long history of use as food and has been reported that it has been used during the Aztec civilization. Spirulina has high nutritional values due to its content in proteins, phycocyanins, essential amino acids, minerals (iron, manganese, magnesium, zinc, copper, selenium), essential fatty acids, and liposoluble antioxidants (vitamin E & carotenoids).

Spirulina boasts a 60% protein content (richer source of protein than most vegetables), it contains vitamins, especially B₁₂, functional compounds, such as phenolics, and polysaccharides, with antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-stimulating effects. Spirulina is a good source of iron with a tablespoon providing 4.2mg of iron. Supplies only 3 calories for each gram, this is one of the least calories you can gain for any gram of protein source.

Did you know? Spirulina is the first oxygenic photoautotroph that directly transforms sunlight into compound metabolic pathways.

The super nutrient-dense spirulina is regarded as the prominent health supplement in the world. It is available in the form of powder, capsules, tablets and can even be incorporated in certain foods and beverages such as energy bars, and smoothies.

Spirulina is generally cultivated in manmade or natural lakes, harvested and freeze-dried.

ZENITH NUTRITION SPIRULINA

 Zenith Nutrition Spirulina is a supplement with high nutritional value. The vegetarian, easy to swallow dietary supplement possesses diverse biological and nutritional significance due to the high concentration of natural nutrients. The supplement is free of preservatives, corn, dairy, soy, gluten, sugar.

ANTIOXIDANT & ANTI-INFLAMMATORY

Spirulina comprises a pigment known as phycocyanin, which is a powerful inhibitor of an enzyme that stimulates inflammation in the body. Phycocyanin subdues the inflammation by inhibiting the expression of COX2, also known as prostaglandin-endoperoxide-synthase 2 (an enzyme that is responsible for the production of prostaglandins).

It also inhibits nitric oxide synthase and pro-inflammatory cytokine production.

The phycocyanin in spirulina forages free radicals, including hydroxyl, peroxyl radicals, helps inhibit lipid peroxidation, and reduces the output of prostaglandin and nitrite.

STRENGTHENS IMMUNITY

Pollution, nutrient deficiencies, decreased energy and excessive oxidative stress are indicative of a compromised immunity. As a complete source of protein, rich in beta carotene, and the essential fatty acid GLA, iron, B-complex vitamins, minerals, Spirulina can boost both innate and acquired immune defenses, allowing the body to manage illnesses and infections. Spirulina produces biologically active proteins capable of stimulating the innate immune system.

It increases production of macrophages and T cells, promotes antibody production and gamma interferons. They also exhibit antimicrobial activity and antifungal activity.

ACCELERATES WEIGHT LOSS

Overweight or obese individuals trying to lose weight may derive benefit from spirulina. Spirulina is rich in protein, fiber and low on calories which work hand in hand to reduce the appetite and recurrence of hunger which are the chief attributes to weight gain. Spirulina helps boost the metabolism (a higher metabolic rate is directly proportional to the number of calories we burn each day). Spirulina contains phycocyanins which are capable of inhibiting free radicals, which is a significant source of oxidative stress in adipocytes playing a key role in inducing insulin resistance.

With its elevated nutritional value, Spirulina elevates your energy levels, which may bring you an additional boost during cardio workouts. The energy punch may boost your workout and can help you burn fat more effectively.

NATURAL BODY DETOX

Due to its high nutritional profile, Spirulina has emerged as a great diet potential. Popping Spirulina capsule a day helps your body to detox naturally. Spirulina contains antioxidants, minerals, chlorophyll that help remove toxins and other pollutants from the body. It alkalizes the body and tends to reach deep into bodily tissues and root out toxins like mercury, arsenic, cadmium, pesticides, synthetic food chemicals.

Spirulina is known to be alkalizing to the body, boosts liver function, which are the necessary factors for detoxing. Spirulina consists of chlorophyll which is used for detoxification by helping remove toxins such as heavy metals and other pollutants from the blood. Spirulina is full of antioxidants and aids in liver detoxification in a gentle and safe way by nourishing your body with the right nutrients.

BOOSTS ENERGY

Spirulina has B-vitamins and carotenoids which help boost energy levels by actively helping the body convert carbs into glucose. Spirulina contains exceptional constituents such as polysaccharides and essential fat (GLA) which are absorbed easily by human cells and help in energy release. Spirulina increases healthy lactobacillus in the intestine, enabling the production of vitamin B6 that helps in energy release.

Unlike caffeinated beverages which give only a temporary boost and then eventually make you feel weak, the energizing effect of Spirulina is consistent and has no known drawbacks. Spirulina is a great supplement for workouts, it contains B vitamins which are essential for transforming food into energy. It amplifies nutrient absorption, increases the concentration of nutrients in your body, reinforces proper digestion, helps reduce fatigue and exhaustion. Being a great source of iron, Spirulina increases oxygen levels in the body.

INCREASES MUSCLE STRENGTH & ENDURANCE

Great nutrition is vital for performance. Spirulina comes with unparalleled nutritional value. The plant-based superfood is considered a complete source of protein because it contains all 9 essential amino acids. The natural green energy helps improve exercise performance and muscle endurance. It’s a good source of iron which is an essential nutrient indispensable for hemoglobin production in the blood. Indeed, hemoglobin is essential for the transportation of oxygen from the lungs to the working muscles. Even small increases in hemoglobin are associated with improved oxygen uptake during exercise.

If you don’t top up your iron levels, then exercising hard will burn through your iron reserves and make you feel fatigued.

WHO IS SPIRULINA SUPPLEMENT SUITABLE FOR?

Spirulina provides new hope for millions of undernourished people and promises several health benefits for those who consume it. Many people use Spirulina for more energy, nutritional insurance, weight control and detox benefits. Spirulina is the richest natural vegan source of protein that is suitable for everyone and is particularly beneficial for vegetarians and vegans who may be devoid of the nutrients available in animal products.

Note: People who have autoimmune diseases or other chronic health ailments need to seek doctor’s advice before embarking on supplementation.

Reference: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3136577/