
Spirulina is one of the few foods with a natural GLA content. GLA is difficult to find in a food source and normally has to be created by the body. Spirulina is 65% protein and amino acids including the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA) which has gotten a lot of attention for its anti-inflammatory properties, especially when taken with other quality Omega-3 supplements. Contains Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA) & Omega-3s While it does contain a form of B12, it is pseudovitamin B12 which is not absorbable or effective in humans according to studies. Important Note: Contrary to many claims, Spirulina is not a good source of Vitamin B12 for humans. Spirulina contains many pigments which may be beneficial and bioavailable”. It is also a source of potassium, calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium and zinc. Spirulina is a great source of other nutrients including ( according to Wikipedia): “It contains vitamins B-1(thiamine), B-2 (riboflavin), B-3(nicotinamide), B-6 (pyridoxine), B-9 (folic acid), vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A and vitamin E.
Calcium: Spirulina is also incredibly high in calcium with over 26 times the calcium in milk.
Even for those who consume meat, it has a highly absorbable form of iron that is gentle on the digestive system.
Iron: Spirulina is a favorite food for vegetarians and vegans because it is one of the best plant sources of iron. It is often taken for increased energy, eye health, brain function and for improving nerve functioning. Vitamin B1: Also called Thiamin, this vitamin is necessary for the digestion of fats and proteins. Protein: It is considered a complete source of high-quality protein and is often compared to eggs for the amount of protein per gram. The protein in Spirulina is highly usable and has a net protein utilization rate of between 50-61%. The concentration of protein and vitamins in Spirulina has led many to classify it as the “most nutrient dense food on the planet.” Compared to other foods gram for gram, it lives up to this reputation and is a great source of: Though it does taste like pond scum, Spirulina has some great health-boosting qualities: 1. The high concentration of protein and iron also makes it ideal during pregnancy, after surgery, or anytime the immune system needs a boost. It is largely made up of protein and essential amino acids, and is typically recommended to vegetarians due to its high natural iron content. When harvested correctly from non-contaminated ponds and bodies of water, it is one of the most potent nutrient sources available. Spirulina is a natural “algae” (cyanbacteria) powder that is incredibly high in protein and a good source of antioxidants, B-vitamins and other nutrients. It does have many benefits, (though contrary to some health claims, I’ve seen no evidence that it cures cancer or HIV). It is rich in chlorophyll, and like plants, gets its energy from the sun. This nutrient rich substance is actually a cyanobacteria and it boasts its fair share of health promoting properties. I don’t like using the term superfood, though it could certainly be applied to Spirulina (and is sometimes used for coconut oil). Surprisingly, you may know this amazing compound by its common name… 