Read this guide to understand the health benefits of Spirulina and why this super food is so important to your diet


Spirulina is a blue-green algae, which meets the definition of superfood, because it contains antioxidants, fibers and nutrients, providing power for the body and promoting the best health. Fernando Gomez-Pinilla, a professor at the University of California, Los Angeles, studied the effects of food on the brain. He said the health benefits of Spirulina and Chlorella are partly attributed to the antioxidants contained in these substances. Antioxidants are particularly useful because they prevent free radicals from destroying cells in the body. They also enhance the immune system, making your body more resistant to infection. The main antioxidants in Spirulina include:

Chlorophyll, found in most green herbs and vegetables, such as sesame and parsley

Gamma-linolenic acid, a fatty acid found in flax and cannabis seeds and soybeans

Carotenoids, which are responsible for the large amount of nutrients in carrots

Researchers at the University of Maryland Medical Center say Spirulina can also help the immune system produce more proteins for fighting infections and preventing diseases. About 62% of Spirulina platensis is made up of amino acids, which are part of protein. High levels of protein are responsible for the health benefits of several Spirulina species.


Expected health benefits


Spirulina is associated with several potential health benefits in animal research and in vitro research.

In both types of studies, algae seem to block histamine release, a substance that causes allergic symptoms.

In vitro studies, Spirulina seems to protect Lactobacillus acidophilus (a beneficial bacterium found in the digestive tract) from antibiotics.

A human study led by researchers in Kerala, India, suggests that Spirulina may contribute to precancerous lesions in people who chew tobacco. This study shows that people who take Spirulina are more likely to lose their lesions, so when it comes to the health benefits of Spirulina, researchers pay special attention to cancer.

For more nutritious superfoods, check out our top 50 superfoods in 2015

Nutrition Survey


The health benefits of Spirulina cyanogreen algae come from the important nutrients found in this super food. It contains manganese, copper, zinc, selenium, iron, vitamin E and B vitamins. Manganese acts as an antioxidant, supporting the body's metabolism, contributing to bone development and wound healing. Copper helps metabolize iron, generates energy, forms connective tissue, and produces substances such as melanin, myelin and neurotransmitters. The body uses zinc to stabilize the structure of cell membranes and proteins. You need selenium to produce selenoproteins, which help the enzymes work properly. Selenium is hard to come by, so foods like Spirulina and Brazilian nuts should always be in your kitchen. Iron carries oxygen through your body, so Spirulina can also be used to fight anemia. Vitamin E (common in mulberries and many other foods) is used as an antioxidant to protect cells from free radicals. B complex vitamins work together to ensure that your body can use the energy of the food you eat. All these nutrients contribute to the powerful health benefits of Spirulina.

Selection and storage


Most Spirulina sold in the United States are produced in laboratories. Spirulina has powder, tablet, capsule and slice form, so choose the most suitable Spirulina for your daily life. If you want to add Spirulina to ice sand and other mixed drinks, flakes or powders will be the best choice. If you want to take Spirulina instead of adding it to your food, capsules or tablets are the ideal choice.

Water and high temperature may affect the quality of Spirulina, so be sure to keep it properly. Avoid storing Spirulina near any heat source, away from sunlight and strong artificial light sources. When storing Spirulina, make sure the packing is tightly sealed. If possible, use Spirulina within three months of opening Spirulina to avoid spoilage. Taking these precautions will help you enjoy the health benefits of Spirulina without worrying about the quality of supplements.



eparing Spirulina


Making green juice from Spirulina gives you a chance to enjoy your favorite fruits and vegetables.

The basic formula for spirulina green juice consists of two apples, an English cucumber, a small lime or lemon, and a teaspoon of Spirulina powder. Juice apples, cucumbers and citrus fruits, then add the powder to the mixer or juicer.


Mix 3 tablespoons honey, 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon and 1/8 teaspoon Spirulina powder. Sprinkle honey on high-fiber fruits such as pineapples or add it to tea.