Spirulina Supplements
Spirulina is a blue‑green algae (technically a cyanobacteria) often categorised as a superfood due to its high concentration of health‑boosting nutrients. Spirulina is particularly rich in plant‑based proteins (up to 60%), B vitamins, and the antioxidant C‑phycocyanin. The powdered form of spirulina is made by drying the algae, which were once abundant in subtropical and tropical lakes but are now mostly cultivated in laboratories.
What Is Spirulina Good For?
Spirulina is renowned for its antioxidant and anti‑inflammatory properties. It supports the immune and cardiovascular systems and helps regulate blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure. Some of the proven benefits of spirulina include:
- Helps bind and eliminate heavy metals from the body;
- Reduces allergy symptoms;
- Eases PMS symptoms;
- Alleviates symptoms of anemia;
- Fights yeast infections;
- May boost endurance and muscle strength.
Spirulina's benefits are similar to those of chlorella, another superfood algae, but spirulina is easier to digest.
Because its effects on children, pregnant, and breastfeeding women haven’t been fully studied, spirulina is not generally recommended for these groups.
Spirulina Dosage
The commonly recommended daily dose of spirulina is 2–5 grams. However, benefits have been observed with double that amount. It’s advisable to start with a lower dose and gradually increase it to the desired amount.
Spirulina’s flavour can be earthy and fishy, which some people find challenging. To make it more palatable, it can be added to smoothies, fruit and vegetable juices, or even used as a natural colouring agent in beverages—blue spirulina is especially popular for this. It’s also great for adding to desserts, soups, or salads for an extra nutritional boost.