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Spirulina Health Benefits
Spirulina is a blue-green alga and a term commonly used to describe both a human supplement and an animal food that comes mainly from two species of cyanobacteria: Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima. These algae are found in both salt and fresh water and are also cultivated around the world.
Nutritional Value of Spirulina
Spirulina is an excellent source of protein, with levels ranging from about 55 to 77 percent (dry weight), depending on the source. Unlike most other plant proteins, such as beans, lentils, nuts, and soy products, spirulina is a complete protein, which means it contains all the essential amino acids. Compared with beef, which delivers 22 percent protein, and lentils, which comes in at 26 percent, spirulina provides about three times more protein. Spirulina also contains the essential omega-3 fatty acids and is especially rich in gamma-linolenic acid, an omega-6 fatty acid that helps reduce inflammation and blood pressure. Other nutrients present in spirulina include vitamins A, C, D, and E, as well as most of the B vitamins; the minerals calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, and zinc; and various pigments, including beta-carotene and zeaxanthin, among others.
Studies of Spirulina
Spirulina has also been used to treat people exposed to radiation, including children affected by the Chernobyl nuclear disaster. The substance in spirulina responsible for this “cleansing” property is a blue pigment called phycocyanin, which is also a nitrogen storage molecule. Nitrogen atoms can bind to heavy metals such as radioactive strontium and cesium and facilitate their elimination from the body.
An animal study conducted in China evaluated the effect of spirulina on mice and dogs exposed to cyclophosphamide and irradiation. The researchers found that spirulina platensis increased the level of red blood cells, white blood cells, and hemoglobins, and that spirulina’s chemoprotective and radioprotective qualities may make it useful as an adjunct to cancer therapy. (Zhang 2001) A subsequent study found that selenium-infused spirulina inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells in the laboratory. (Chen 2009)
Spirulina also demonstrated an ability to alleviate anemia and immune system dysfunction (i.e., immunosenescence) in older adults. Thirty men and women age 50 years and older who had a history of anemia took spirulina supplements for 12 weeks. Throughout the study critical blood values concerning anemia and immune system functioning improved steadily in all the participants. (Selmi 2011)
At least one study has shown that spirulina may help patients with allergies. In a double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that evaluated patients with allergic rhinitis, spirulina significantly improved symptoms (e.g., nasal congestion, itching, nasal discharge, sneezing) when compared with placebo. (Cingi 2008)
Spirulina also appears to provide benefits for individuals who have high cholesterol/lipids and high blood pressure. In a study conducted at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, 36 healthy adults were given 4.5 grams of spirulina daily for 6 weeks to determine its impact on serum lipids, blood pressure, glucose, and enzymes called aminotransferases. Analyses of blood samples taken from the participants before and after the 6 weeks showed that taking spirulina caused a significant reduction in total cholesterol and triacylglycerols and a significant increase in “good cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein, HDL). Spirulina was also associated with a reduction in systolic and diastolic blood pressure. (Torres-Duran 2007)
How to Take Spirulina
Spirulina is available in tablets, capsules, flakes, and powder. A typical dose of spirulina ranges from 250 mg to 10 grams daily or higher; consult your healthcare provider. Because spirulina is a potent detoxifier, it is best to start with a low dose and gradually increase it to your desired dose, because you may experience some temporary side effects as your body begins to eliminate toxins and to adjust to the spirulina. Some of those transient side effects may include restlessness, excessive passing of gas, sleeplessness, itchy skin and/or rashes, and a slight fever, as well as flushing, headache, muscle pain, and sweating. When purchasing spirulina, look for products that have been screened for radiation, because spirulina can absorb radiation from its environment. Do not take spirulina if you have a seafood or iodine allergy.
Watch ‘The Spirulina Algae Miracle and Your Body’ Video
References
Chen T et al. Induction of G1 cell cycle arrest and mitochondria-mediated apoptosis in MCF-7 human breast carcinoma cells by selenium-enriched Spirulina extract. Biomed Pharmacother 2009 Oct 27
Cingi C et al. The effects of spirulina on allergic rhinitis. Eur Arch Otorhinolaryngol 2008 Oct; 265(10): 1219-23
Selmi C et al. The effects of spirulina on anemia and immune function in senior citizens. Cellular & Molecular Immunology 2011 Jan 31; doi: 10.1038/cmi.2010.76
Torres-Duran PV et al. Antihyperlipemic and antihypertensive effects of Spirulina maxima in an open sample of Mexican population: a preliminary report. Lipids Health Dis 2007 Nov 26; 6:33
Zhang HQ et al. Chemo- and radio-protective effects of polysaccharide of spirulina platensis on hemopoietic system of mice and dogs. Acta Pharmacol Sin 2001 Dec; 22(12): 1121-24
