Getting the Scoop on Spirulina

Spirulina is a blue-green freshwater algae, often dried into powder or tablet form, revered by the Aztec dynasties as a superfood - they even mixed it with chocolate. Through photosynthesis, sunlight converts the algae into pure protein, carbohydrates, fatty acids and other nutrients. Spirulina contains about 65-71% protein. It contains all the essential amino acids, making it a complete protein, which is a great aid in the vegetarian and vegan diet. Spirulina was the primary protein source in Mexico city for thousands of years.

50% of the protein in foods is lost through cooking. Because spirulina is a raw pure protein source it is one of the richest sources available which can be easily absorbed in the body in liquid form, by adding the powder to water. It is also a much more sustainable source of protein than animal protein. Spirulina, a full-spectrum protein, is known to balance the brain chemistry and help us cope with stress and balance moods. A normal dose would be 6-10g per day, a super-athlete dose would be 30+g per day.

Ancient algae and plankton such as spirulina, are amongst the simplest and most ancient of all life forms. They provide the fundamental nutrient and food sources for all life on earth, they are the basis and beginning of the food chain. It is rich in vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, E and K, plus chlorophyll, iron, salts, phytonutrients and enzymes. It is the best source of Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA), an anti inflammatory essential fatty acid which supports the nervous system and helps fight the inflammatory symptoms of arthritis. It is good for the blood, boosts the immune system and is high in antioxidants.

Sourced from runandbecome.com