Spirulina is derived from the Latin after its appearance meaning "helix" or "spiral." It consists of blue-green algae that are rich in protein, and which make a nutritious, edible and drinkable food source. These algae grow by the hundreds in a single drop of water and yet contain the richest concentration of nutrients known of any food, grain or herb on earth.
Background
Spirulina is the common name for human and animal food supplements produced primarily from species of cyanobacteria (photosynthetic bacteria). Spirulina is cultivated around the world and is used as a human dietary supplement as well as a whole food. It is available in tablet, flake, and powder form. Spirulina is also used as a feed supplement in the aquaculture, aquarium, and poultry industries.
The United Nations World Food Conference in 1974 lauded spirulina as the "best food for the future" - Wikipedia. Several member states formed the Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-algae Spirulina Against Malnutrition (IIMSAM) seeking a consensus for spirulina to be used to eradicate malnutrition, achieve food security, and bridge the health divide throughout the world.
Spirulina Farming Process
An interesting video of the Boonsom spirulina farm in Thailand is available for viewing. It shows how spirulina is grown – taking about 90 days for the live algae to go through the process of maturing from a green sludge to its refined form, where it can be dried and compressed into a pill. If left as a powder, spirulina can be added to other foods for a nutritional boost and, of course, change their colour to green.
Composition of Spirulina
Spirulina is about 65% protein by composition and is often compared to chlorella. Spirulina is well absorbed by the human body and contains a full, natural range of nutrients, proteins, enzymes and co-factors for maximum absorption and digestion. It is low in calories and saturated fat and is one of the only non-mucous, non-acid forming, high protein foods. Interestingly, it contains twelve times the level of protein of beef.
The following nutrients are found in spirulina:
- All the vitamins: B, C, E and A in their natural forms
- All Amino acids: All eight daily essential and ten non-essential amino acids
- Minerals: Iron, Calcium, Zinc, Chromium, Iodine and Sodium
- Phytonutrients: Chlorophyll, Phycocyanin, Beta carotene, Mixed Carotenoids, gamma-linolenic acid (GLA)
Health Benefits and Dosage
Spirulina has the best source of GLA, a "good" fat necessary for the human brain, proper heart function, and other body systems (Superfoods for Optimum Health: Chlorella and Spirulina. Mike Adams. Truth Publishing International, 2005). It also contains phycocyanin, a potent anti-cancer phytochemical that gives spirulina its characteristic blue hue. Additionally, spirulina:
- Tops up energy levels, vitality and stamina
- Suppresses appetite and reduces cravings by balancing blood sugar levels
- Supports mental clarity and focus
Spirulina is ideal for people feeling run down or exhausted, anybody looking for more energy and those living busy or stressful lifestyles. It is also beneficial to sports or fitness people who do regular exercise and for pregnant and breastfeeding women. The high iron content of spirulina is useful for people who are iron deficient.
According to Mike Adams, of Truth Publishing, for a 150 lb adult, a disease-fighting dose is 20 grams/day with 10 grams/day for maintenance. Athletes can take 60 grams/day. There is no upper limit for taking Spirulina because it is a food.
Summary
Spirulina is an alga that is farmed for its highly nutritious qualities and many health-giving properties. It contains a full protein and has a range of naturally occurring vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients. Spirulina's main health benefits are energy-giving, and improved brain and heart functions.
Readers may be interested in finding out more details, or learn about the so-called "miracle herb", Aloe Vera.
Harry P. Schlanger - Hello, I started out as a physicist working for research organisations. Mostly in the area of heat transfer in solids and porous media. ...
