Are you looking for an effective nutritional supplement to add to your diet? Then Spirulina may be the perfect choice for you and your family.

What is spirulina?

Spirulina is a superfood supplement. It is a type of blue-green algae that people eat for its health benefits. It is available in the market in the form of capsules, tablets, or powder.

It has also been added to some foods and drinks such as protein bars (energy bars) due to its many health benefits. Where spirulina contains 60% of protein, which makes it a rich source of protein compared to many other foods.

nutritional values

Spirulina is a rich source of vitamins and minerals without noticeable side effects. This may help maintain good nutrition and a balanced diet. Each 7gm (1 tablespoon) of dried spirulina contains:

• Protein: 4 g
• Iron: 2 mg
• Carbohydrates: 1.6 g
• Calcium: 8 mg
• Phosphorus: 8 mg
• Sodium: 73 mg
• Magnesium: 14 mg

They also contain vitamin C, vitamin K, vitamin A, vitamin B6, niacin, and folate. In addition, it contains few calories, only about 20 calories.

Benefits of spirulina

These algae have been known as an effective treatment for a range of health problems such as metabolic problems, high cholesterol, heart disease, and weight gain.

Some also believe that it may help treat mental and psychological disorders such as anxiety, stress, depression, attention deficit disorder, and hyperactivity. Among its most famous benefits:

1. Treatment of malnutrition

Many studies have indicated the benefits of this dietary supplement, in the treatment of those suffering from malnutrition and anemia, especially children and pregnant women.

One study, published in the Journal of Maternal and Child Nutrition in 2016, found a clear improvement in weight and height gain for children who were treated with spirulina for 3 months, compared to children who received regular vitamin and mineral supplements.

2. The benefits of spirulina for the skin

Due to spirulina’s anti-inflammatory properties, it may help reduce bacterial growth, reduce skin infections, and may help reduce the appearance of acne.

3. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory

Oxidative damage may damage DNA and cells. Which in turn may lead to chronic inflammation that may contribute to some diseases, including cancer.

However, it is worth noting that spirulina is a rich source of antioxidants that can protect cells from oxidation. It contains phycocyanin, which fights free radicals and prevents inflammation.

4. Promote the treatment of diabetes

Spirulina has shown promising indications for controlling symptoms of diabetes. As a priority study conducted in 2018 indicated that eating it helped reduce blood sugar levels when fasting.

Elevated fasting blood sugar is a common problem in patients with type 1 and type 2 diabetes. However, it still needs more studies before it can be recommended by doctors.

5. Spirulina and cholesterol

The results of some scientific studies have found that these algae have a positive and effective effect in reducing total cholesterol levels, bad cholesterol levels, and triglycerides. In addition, it helps to raise levels of good cholesterol.

6. Benefits of spirulina for hair

Spirulina is also used to promote hair growth and reduce hair problems such as thinning hair. It contains essential fatty and amino acids, and beta-carotene.

7. Prevention of heart disease

Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the world, according to the World Health Organization. However, spirulina algae may play a fundamental role in preventing the risk of heart disease. As it reduces high blood pressure and cholesterol levels. It also has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. This, in turn, helps reduce the risk of infection.

8. Treating allergy symptoms

Some studies indicate that spirulina may help treat allergic rhinitis. Which may be caused by a person’s allergy to dust, pollen, or pets. As it helps relieve rhinitis, and reduces histamine in the body. Symptoms that may help treat:

• Runny nose and nasal congestion
• sneeze
• itching

Benefits of spirulina for weight loss

Adding spirulina to the diet may aid in weight loss, without losing the nutrition needed for the body whether it is taken as a tablet or powder. It is a food source rich in nutritional values, in addition to containing low calories.

This was indicated by the results of several clinical trials, in which 52 overweight people participated. Where participants received spirulina (2 g per day) for a period of 3 months, along with a calorie-restricted diet, decreased appetite, and improved their body mass index.

In addition, it contributed to a decrease in triglycerides by 18 mg / dL. The bad cholesterol (LDL) level also decreased significantly.

How to use spirulina

They can be used as tablets, capsules, or powder. If used as a powder, It can be used by:

• Add it to fruit or vegetable smoothies
• Add it to salads or soups
• It can be mixed into energy balls with other healthy ingredients

Benefits of spirulina for pregnant women

Some may ask, is spirulina useful for pregnant women? A number of limited studies indicated that among the benefits of spirulina pills for pregnant women are the following:

1. It contains antioxidants that protect against inflammation and free radical damage.
2. A rich source of nutrients such as vitamin B complex, iron, and folic acid.
3. It contains omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are beneficial for the health of the mother and fetus.
4. Helps produce hemoglobin and red blood cells.
5. It may reduce glucose levels, which may be beneficial for the health of pregnant women and diabetics.
6. Reducing the risk of vaginal and oral candidiasis.

However, it is not recommended to use spirulina during pregnancy before consulting a doctor, as there are not enough human studies to determine its side effects on the health of the mother and fetus, and the safety of its use for pregnant women.

Side effects of spirulina

Does spirulina have any harm or side effects on health? It is generally safe to take, but it may have some side effects in some people with certain health conditions. Among its potential harms are:

1. Autoimmune diseases

It is not recommended for people with autoimmune diseases. As this dietary supplement works to strengthen the human immune system, so it may lead to a deterioration in the health condition of people with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, and rheumatoid arthritis.

2. It slows blood clotting

Spirulina has an anticoagulant effect, which increases the time it takes for blood to clot. Which in turn helps prevent severe bleeding. Therefore, it is not recommended for use by those suffering from bleeding disorders, or those taking blood thinners.

3. An allergic reaction

Some people may experience an allergic reaction to it. Therefore, it is recommended not to take it in the case of people who are allergic to this food supplement, and the need to consult a doctor before use.

4. Contaminated spirulina

These algae may become contaminated with harmful bacteria and contaminated minerals if grown in unsafe conditions. This may result in nausea and vomiting, liver damage, or rapid heartbeat.

Therefore, it is always recommended to check the source of nutritional supplements to ensure that they are free from contamination factors, and that they have been grown in controlled environments.

Now that you know the benefits and harms of spirulina. Always make sure to follow a healthy diet, and we recommend that you consult a doctor if you use any of the nutritional supplements in general, in order to find out the most suitable types for you and avoid any possible side effects.