Spirulina

I’ve been taking Spirulina Tablets as a Supplement during the 84 Day Body Challenge and have been finding them good to take in the afternoon, especially if I start feeling a little tired after lunch.

The more I read about Spirulina, the more I am truly impressed by the science behind this superfood and I’m surprised that more people don’t know about it – so I’m covering the spirulina benefits and spirulina side effects right here, so you can make an informed choice.

Spirulina (or more specifically “Arthrospira”) is a type of blue-green algae (technically called a Cyanobacteria) and all types of these bacteria can be found everywhere on Earth. They are unique because of the way they perform oxygenic photosynthesis and this has thought to have contributed to a great stimulation of biodiversity millions of years ago on our planet, that has possibly even contributed to our very existence.

Historical records indicate that Spirulina was being grown and harvested for human consumption as far back as the 16th Century, by the Aztecs on Lake Texcoco; yet, strangely no other historical references have been found until French researchers took an interest in the 1960′s and full-scale production of Spirulina began in the 1970′s.

Today, the largest producers of Spirulina as located in Burma, Chile, China, India, Pakistan, Thailand and the United States.

What is so special about Spirulina?

It is the nutrient content of Spirulina that makes it so special, and as a green super food, it proudly sits alongside many other similar foods such as Wheat Grass, Barley Grass and Chlorella.

When compared to other plant materials, Spirulina contains incredibly high amounts of Protein, sometimes up to 77% of its dry weight, but more importantly it is a complete protein and contains all the essential amino acids that our bodies require – and much more superior that Legumes.

Spirulina is also very rich in some essential fatty acids (GLA, ALA, LA, SDA, EPA, DHA and AA) and contains several vitamins such as B1, B2, B3, B6, Folic Acid, C, D, A and E.

What are the benefits of taking Spirulina?

I can’t speak for anyone else, except my own experience. As part of an Alkaline eating plan I believe that Spirulina Tablets are assisting with combating the effects of my body being too acidic.

As for the immediate Spirulina benefits, I have found that when taken in the afternoon, around the time when I begin to feel a little sleepy – that they make me a little more alert and awake.

What are Spirulina side effects?

As with any food that you absorb into your body, you should take the usual precautions of ensuring that you’re purchasing Spirulina from a reputable supplier, preferably one that is certified Organic. This is important, and unfortunately, there are not many regulations that control the quality and safety of Spirulina which can contain toxins called “microcystins”.

Personally, the only Spirulina side effects that I have noticed is constipation – and this was quickly remedied by ensuring that I take the Spirulina tablets with a very large glass of water; I presume that the tablets are so highly compressed that when they reach the stomach they absorb a lot of water content as they expand.

It is always advisable that you consult with your Doctor before changing your diet in any dramatic way, to ensure that you are in good health and free of any diseases that could be affected by taking Spirulina.

Where can I buy Spirulina Tablets?

You can purchase them from your local health food supplier, or you can buy them from the Fitness Kick Shop which is where I get them from.