Spirulina is a superfood that seems to be taking center stage in a whole lot of health settings. It's all over the health food stores and aisles... and marketed in many places. For the longest time, the blue color just made me think of blue raspberry flavoring in candy and other whatnot. Total turnoff... but I promise it's not that bad!
Spirulina, an intriguing blue-green edible algae with a storied history, is gradually becoming a health trend in the States. Once limited to health food stores, Spirulina is now ubiquitous in supermarkets nationwide. Although long consumed by diverse cultures worldwide for its nutritional properties, this freshwater plant’s potential health benefits are finally earning recognition in America. Who would have imagined that Arthrospira (the scientific name for Spirulina) would be designated as a "superfood"? It has been revered by many civilizations - from Aztec Indians using it as a food source and healing ingredient centuries ago to astronauts consuming it on NASA expeditions as a dietary supplement.
Here are six compelling reasons why you might consider including it in your Open Eating recipes...
- Protein-packed goodness- Spirulina undoubtedly belongs amongst foods that offer high-value plant proteins at 4g per Tablespoon
- So many vitamins- Spirulina houses substantial amounts of calcium, niacin, potassium magnesium B vitamins, and iron, all of which play a pivotal role in maintaining healthy blood cells and nerves—are present in copious amounts.
- Protects eye health- Phytonutrient-rich Spirulina is also remarkable for its houseful of carotenoids—plant-based antioxidants essential for preserving eye health. A pair of key carotenoids—lutein and zeaxanthin—are found especially helpful in decreasing risks leading to macular degeneration.
- Omega-rich repertoire- While most popularly known as stemming from fish, plant-based sources of Omega-3 fatty acids exist—with Spirulina claiming a spot amongst them. These crucial elements are renowned for their ability to support brain health during pregnancy or early life stages, fend off depression and anxiety, enhance cognitive function during aging, mitigate heart disease risk factors, and more.
- Fighting inflammation with antioxidants- Spirulina holds a rich blend of bioactive compounds such as polyphenols and plant pigments vital for maintaining your body’s antioxidant immunity —thus keeping inflammation at bay. This brilliant cocktail helps guard against cell damage by free radicals engendering oxidative stress—a clear culprit behind disease manifestation.
- Gut health promoter- There’s mounting evidence suggesting that Spirulina exerts beneficial effects on gut microbiota by boosting the growth of probiotic bacteria—an essential consideration for those seeking digestive wellness.
No food is the PERFECT food though... there are always things to watch for.
Spirulina happens to be an anticoagulant (or blood thinner). Individuals battling clotting disorders should consult healthcare providers before venturing into the realm of Spirulina consumption. Furthermore, Phenylketonuria patients need to steer clear due to its high phenylalanine content—a condition where your body cannot metabolize this particular amino acid.
It's also important to recognize that while Spirulina is technically a food, many markets see it as a supplement opportunity. The supplement industry is not well-regulated, so it is important to make sure you are getting it from a trusted source. Given Spirulina's sensitivity to the environment, it might absorb harmful toxins along with precious minerals, which may result in heavy metals finding their way into your Spirulina. Be mindful and seek out sources that can be trusted by your providers.
Also, if you're pregnant, be sure to consult with your provider to ensure you and that little one are staying safe.
For those curious about how one could include this wonder alga within daily foods—there are countless ways! From raspberry smoothie bowls garnished with a teaspoon of Spirulina offering an enjoyable colorful palette and earthy taste mix—to chickpea cookie dough bites where sprinkling some Spirulina enables an interesting blend of flavor profiles—the options are endless.
The good morning green smoothie could also benefit from an extra punch of nutrients by adding some Spirulina into the mix! With apples, spinach, and Persian cucumbers already part of this superfood cocktail—you're unlikely even to notice that Spirulina is there!
Indeed – incorporating this green power powder into meals isn’t rocket science- just liberating creativity for your Open Eating journey!