Spirulina

A blue-green algae known as spirulina is full of protein, vitamins, minerals, and carotenoids. It is utilized in some cosmetic products and as a dietary supplement.Spirulina is cultivated in fresh and salt water alike all over the world. It is frequently taken as a tablet or powder. Additionally, some people apply it topically to treat skin conditions like eczema.
Overview
Uses
Side Effects
Medication
Ingredients
Supplements
Pharmacokinetics

What is Spirulina

Spirulina contains 60% protein on average. As a result, it serves as a fantastic source of protein for vegans and vegetarians.

Spirulina is an excellent source of the vitamins A, B1, B2, B6, and B12. Additionally, it contains a lot of minerals like manganese, magnesium, potassium, and iron.

Spirulina is rich in carotenoids, which are antioxidants that can help shield cells from cellular damage.

Health Benefits:

1. May Increase Energy Levels: According to some studies, spirulina may help increase energy and lessen fatigue. Its high protein content and capacity to enhance iron absorption are probably the causes of this effect.

2. May Aid in Lowering Cholesterol: According to one study, spirulina can help people with high cholesterol levels lower their LDL (bad) and total cholesterol.

3. Spirulina has been demonstrated to lessen allergy symptoms, including hay fever and asthma. It is believed that this effect results from its capacity to lower inflammation.

4. Spirulina may help protect against some types of cancer, according to some preliminary research, though more studies are required.

5. Spirulina may improve immunity: Studies have shown that it stimulates the activity of immune cells like macrophages and natural killer cells. This result might offer some disease and infection defense.

6. May Help Lower Blood Sugar Levels: Early research indicates that spirulina may help diabetics with their blood sugar levels.

7. Spirulina supplements have been shown to improve exercise performance in cyclists, according to one study. Spirulina's high iron content, which aids in the delivery of oxygen to muscles, is probably to blame for this effect.

8. May Help Protect the Brain: According to some studies, spirulina may enhance cognitive function and protect the brain from harm. Its high antioxidant content is thought to be the cause of this effect.

9. Spirulina Has Been Shown to Reduce Oxidative Stress and Inflammation, Which Are Both Linked to Accelerated Aging: Spirulina Has Been Shown to Reduce Oxidative Stress and Inflammation.

10. Is Nutritious and Simple to Include in Your Diet: Spirulina is a food that is rich in nutrients and is simple to include in your diet. It can be consumed with or without food and comes in powder, tablet, or capsule form.

Side Effects and Safety

When consumed in the recommended dosages, spirulina is generally regarded as safe. But it can also result in negative side effects like nausea, diarrhea, and upset stomach. In some people, it can also result in rashes, allergic reactions, and headaches.

Spirulina is POSSIBLY SAFE for the majority of adults when taken orally in the recommended doses for up to 45 days.

It is POSSIBLY SAFE to apply spirulina directly to the skin. After applying spirulina to their skin, some people have broken out in a rash.

Special Precautions & Warnings

Breast-feeding and pregnancy: There isn't enough trustworthy data to determine whether spirulina consumption while breast-feeding or pregnant is safe. Avoid use to be on the safe side.

Spirulina may boost the immune system's activity in cases of autoimmune disease. There is concern that this may exacerbate autoimmune conditions like lupus. It's best to stay away from spirulina if you have one of these conditions.

Disorders of bleeding: Spirulina supplementation may delay blood clotting. In those with bleeding disorders, this may raise their risk of bleeding and bruising.

Spirulina may lower blood sugar levels in people with diabetes. After consuming spirulina, diabetics should carefully monitor their blood sugar levels.

Spirulina can help people with high cholesterol. There is concern that it might also affect how the body metabolizes fats, including cholesterol. If a person has high cholesterol and is taking medication to lower their cholesterol, this could increase their risk of bleeding.

Kidney disease: Spirulina has a high potassium content. Spirulina shouldn't be consumed by those who have kidney disease because it could cause excessively high potassium levels.

Spirulina may prevent blood clots during surgery. It is feared that it could make bleeding more likely both during and after surgery. At least two weeks prior to the scheduled surgery, stop taking spirulina.


Mechanism of Action

Spirulina's high nutrient and antioxidant content is thought to be the cause of its health advantages. These ingredients can aid in cell defense, lower the risk of some chronic diseases, and shield cells from harm.

Dosage

Depending on the form you are taking and why, spirulina dosage recommendations will vary.

Spirulina is typically taken in doses of 1-3 grams daily for general health.

3 grams of spirulina have been taken orally every day for 12 weeks to treat high cholesterol.

For three months, 2 grams of spirulina have been taken orally as a treatment for diabetes.

500 milligrams of spirulina have been consumed orally every day for 8 weeks to improve exercise performance.

For the purpose of protein augmentation, either 20–30 grams of spirulina powder or 5–10 grams of freeze–dried spirulina have been taken orally every day for 4–8 weeks.