Spirulina

Believed to be over 2 billion years old, Spirulina is considered the most popular superfood earning its name within the modern household for good reason. This freshwater blue-green cyanobacterium was originally consumed by the Aztecs and Mayans. It is the only supergreen that contains all 22 essential amino acids necessary for daily function, comprising 60% of its nutritional profile

The medicinal focus of spirulina has predominantly been for its potential to inhibit the HIV virus in vitro and vivo. Its immunological benefits are attributed to phycocyanin – a powerful antioxidant and immune system stimulant that is only found in spirulina (1) giving it its blue-green colour. For an easy supergreen smoothie for your morning check out http://healthfromhomenaturally.com/supergreen-smoothie/ on our recipe page!

Spirulina is high in vitamin A, B6, B12 (although the availability is has come across some dispute), gamma linolenic acid, iron, magnesium and iodine

The benefits of each of these nutrients available in Spirulina include ~

Vitamin A – beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant. It strengthens the skin and protects against free radicals

B6 & magnesium – these nutrients are so important for the functioning of the nervous system and to maintain effective energy production

B12 – also plays an important role in the functioning of the nervous system along with B6 and magnesium. It helps generate red blood cells, and is imperative for DNA synthesis sustaining healthy energy-yielding metabolism (2)

Gamma linolenic acid – helps reduce inflammation and support immune function

Iron – iron deficiency is the most common deficiency in the world. Its main actions is to facilitate the transport and storage of oxygen and maintain the functioning of the immune system. It also plays a role in many enzymatic systems within the body (3)

If adding spirulina to your daily smoothie or morning ritual of apple cider vinegar is a bit too much to handle, tablets are available in all health food stores and are well worth the investment!

References

(1) Hechtman, L, (2012). Clinical Naturopathic Medicine, Elsevier, Australia

(2) Veganhealth.org. (2017). Retrieved from http://veganhealth.org/b12/coenz

(3) Braun, L. & Cohen, M. (2010) Herbs & Natural Supplements – An evidence-based guide (3^rd ed.) Elsevier: Australia

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