How Spirulina Is A Potent Source of Protein?
Spirulina refers to the biomass of Cyanobacteria (single celled microbes) which is not only edible but nutritious as well. It gets its name owing to its spiral shape when viewed under a magnifier. It grows in both fresh and salt water lakes across the world.
What is Spirulina?
Spirulina contains a whole host of health promoting properties which together make this spiral-shaped blue-green algae a super-food of sorts. In fact, it has come to be known as one of the most popular diet and health supplements worldwide. Owing to its popularity, governments all over the world are also promoting its cultivation in various man-made reservoirs, especially in tropical and subtropical regions of Hawaii, California and Mexico. In fact, most of spirulina that we see today is harvested commercially.
The Power of Proteins
We are all familiar with the importance of protein in our lives. It plays a vital role in allowing our body to efficiently perform various everyday functions. Protein, in fact, forms a crucial component of each and every cell inside our body. The body utilises protein to build and repair various muscles and tissues. All these reasons together make it all the more significant for us to include protein in our daily diet. There are various sources of proteins available to mankind, and spirulina happens to top the list.
Nutrition Profile
Surprisingly, spirulina is one of the oldest life forms on earth, which also happens to be one of the most nutrient dense foods available. More than 2-3rd of this tiny algae is all but protein. It is by far the richest source of plant-derived proteins. In fact, its protein content is more than that contained in beef, chicken and even soybean. That is perhaps what makes spirulina especially popular among vegetarians and vegans.
There is More
Spirulina also contains a huge variety of essential and non-essential amino acids. Besides, it comes packed with decent amount of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), beta-carotene, linoleic acid, arachidonic acid, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, phosphorus, a couple of nucleic acids and chlorophyll. Phycocyanin is one more pigment protein complex which can be found in spirulina. The best part about spirulina is its high bioavailability, which allows your body to absorb it and experience its benefits as soon as you consume it.
Surprising Health Benefits Of Spirulina
- Spirulina increases strength and endurance, and allows you to workout harder and better
- Owing to its rich antioxidant profile, spirulina reduces the amount of oxidative stress caused by free radicals on your body.
- Spirulina provides almost immediate boost to your energy, while helping to improve endurance and reduce fatigue.
- It helps improve the immune system.
- The presence of the fatty acid GLA imparts good health to heart and joints.
- It can also improve the good cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while regulating the blood pressure levels.
- It can also improve the good cholesterol and triglyceride levels, while regulating the blood pressure levels.
Spirulina for Muscles, Strength and Endurance
This well-rounded food supplement comes packed with a lot of vitamins, minerals and a bunch of other potential benefits.
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- This super-food is gaining special popularity among body builders the world over. Besides boosting the immune system, it has shown promising results in enhancing athletic performance.
- Its regular consumption also promotes recovery from intense workouts, and controls weight.
- Spirulina forms a rather indispensable part of high protein diet, which helps build muscle.
- It is also effective for those who are involved in activities requiring intense physical efforts
- The presence of Phycocyanin in spirulina imparts a great deal of energy to sportspersons. Being low on calories and high on other essential nutrients also makes spirulina the best source for an instantaneous energy boost.
- Several studies have indicated that spirulina also boosts endurance, thus increasing the time it takes for people to become fatigued. This is especially useful for athletes and sportspersons who can train longer and better.
- Supplementing your diet with spirulina also reduces hunger bouts, keeps blood pressure in check and regulates the internal pH. This allows the individual to perform better.
It is owing to all these reasons that spirulina has rightfully come to be known as A ‘sportsperson’s best ally‘.
Take Home Message
There is little wonder, therefore, to the fact that this edible green growth has something for everybody. Whether you are looking at losing weight, building muscle, increasing stamina and endurance or you’re just a health savvy person in general, spirulina is something you must include in your diet.
This health supplement and well being nourishment is usually available in powdered form. However, it is better to take it in tablet form if you wish to avoid the taste.
Watch Video: Coconut for Health (स्वास्थ्य के लिए नारियल)
About the Author:
Dr Sonica Krishan is Author and Speaker in the areas of Healthy and Joyous Living through Ayurveda, Meditation, Yoga and other Contemplative practices. She is a leading Ayurveda Professional in India. She is also Health Writer, Columnist, Editor, Ayurveda Consultant at Herboveda and Holistic Healing Coach. Dr Sonica is open for National as well as International Collaborations with interested people / institutions in fields of Ayurveda, Meditation and Yoga.
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Nice to read about Spirulina! Continue posting..