From smoothies
(batidos) to more traditional dishes like tortillas and tlayudas (a crispy
tortilla with refried beans and other toppings). It's everywhere.
However, make
no assumption that this is symbolic of the invasion of hipster health food
globalization: centuries before it was considered a "superfood," the
brightly colored cyanobacteria (or blue-green algae), which grows in warm
alkaline lakes and ponds and rivers, was a pre-Hispanic staple.
Mexicans, the
ancestors of the Aztecs, harvested the protein-rich food from the surface of
Lake Texcoco, a vast body of water in central Mexico that was later drained to
make way for the construction of Mexico City.
Spirulina is a
real concentrate of nutrients. Actually, it contains vitamins and minerals, but
also dietary fiber, trace elements, the 8 essential amino acids and many other
good things. It is because it is rich in vegetable proteins that it is
particularly appreciated by vegetarians and vegans. As for its iron level, it
will interest both pregnant women and sportsmen! Here are the benefits of
spirulina.
The Properties
of Spirulina
As it is a
super food, the bioavailability of spirulina is highly estimated. The proteins
it contains are also perfectly assimilable. Although they are vegetable
proteins, they are properly absorbed by the body. In fact, the seaweed does not
contain fibers that are too hard for the body to assimilate, as is the case
with some vegetables.
Moreover, it is
a natural product. It is indeed a food like any other in producing countries.
In Africa, for example, Kanembou women harvest blue algae in Lake Chad for
consumption in the form of small dry patties (dihee). In sport, spirulina can
therefore be taken without any talk of doping. While pregnant women can enjoy
the benefits of spirulina.
Spirulina also
contains pigments that not only give the cyanobacterium it’s pretty blue-green
color. Chlorophyll is an excellent antioxidant known for its action of
photosynthesis. This biological process is shared by beta-carotene and
phycocyanin. The latter, which is considered a protein, is still the subject of
much research today because its particularities are so captivating.
To come back to
β-carotene, it is one of the carotenoids. In fact, it is what is called a
provitamin A, which means that it is a precursor of vitamin A. It is a very
interesting nutritional element. Since it is not the direct form of vitamin A,
there is no risk of over dosage. This is a huge advantage. So, the body only
draws from provitamin A when it really needs it.
Spirulina
and Sport
In recent
years, Spirulina has been consumed by many athletes, who use it as a dietary
supplement. The seaweed offers more than interesting virtues during sports
practices. It is its high protein content, its iron rate as well as its
richness in vitamins and minerals, which have seduced the world of sport but
also that of bodybuilding.
In addition,
spirulina is used in several sports areas, as its nutritional qualities are
fabulous. Marathon, CrossFit, bodybuilding ... The disciplines are numerous. It
is actually because it is rich in micronutrients that the algae are used but
also for its incredible properties. To tell the truth, spirulina has an impact
on muscle mass gain but it would also have an impact on endurance and recovery.
The daily
dosage, when spirulina is taken as part of a physical activity, can range from
2 to 10 grams per day, for a duration of 3 weeks minimum. The doses vary
according to the sport practiced, whether it is an intense or moderate sporting
activity. The dosage may also decrease during breaks or dry periods.
Finally,
spirulina can be taken in powder form or in capsules, depending on one's eating
habits. A capsule is actually made from 100% spirulina, so that for an
equivalent quality, spirulina powder and tablets are the same.
Spirulina
for Weight Loss
It is well
known that spirulina is used in various programs against malnutrition,
particularly in Africa. Because yes, this microscopic alga is not only used in
the manufacture of food supplements. The richness of its nutrients is a major
asset during weight loss. This is why spirulina is used in slimming diets.
Although it may
seem paradoxical, spirulina is used as much for weight gain as it is during a
slimming diet. It is because it contains many nutrients that it is then used.
It will not necessarily make you gain weight, since it does not contain many
calories. It will rather be used as a vitamin and mineral supplement.
Slimming diets
tend to make you lose weight, despite the recommended daily intake of vitamins,
minerals, trace elements or protein. This can have harmful consequences, such
as a vitamin deficiency for example, leading to fatigue or lack of energy.
Spirulina can in these cases be a real ally.
Iron, zinc,
provitamin A, but also group B vitamins, vitamin E or calcium, spirulina
contains many nutritional elements. This complementation is very rich! By
associating it with vitamin C and omega 3, it will bring many benefits to the
body when it needs it the most (sport, weight loss, seasonal changes ...).
Spirulina
for Hair
Beyond its oral
use, spirulina can be used as a cosmetic. It has beneficial effects for the
hair, but also for the skin and nails. It is once again thanks to its various
nutrients that it is used here in hair care or body cream.
There are many
commercially available products based on spirulina, such as daily care
products, revitalizing balms or shampoos. The use of spirulina powder, however,
has fabulous advantages. The first advantage is that spirulina powder can be
used for body care as well as for hair.
On the other
hand, spirulina powder has a not insignificant lucrative price. No need to go
broke to get a cosmetic treatment that works! It is also easier to realize the
quality of spirulina when it is pure. It is important to know that when it is
heated at too high a temperature, it loses some of its properties and benefits
of spirulina ...
Spirulina can
be used in hair care, especially in masks, shampoos or even as a conditioner.
But its action is also done orally. Once ingested, vitamin B8, zinc and
selenium will help maintain hair. It is therefore advisable to take spirulina
with a large glass of water, for a dosage of 2 to 3 grams per day. This does
not prevent it from being used as a beauty care when used externally. Quite the
contrary!
Research
on The Effects of Spirulina
Spirulina
interests more and more scientists, who are constantly making new discoveries
on the subject. For its beneficial effects in sport, from its cosmetic virtues
to its general properties, it has a lot to offer. Moreover, it has a place of
choice among the superfoods and the benefits of spirulina.
What should
also be noted is that spirulina has very few side effects. These are generally
of a digestive nature (slight nausea or bloating). Sometimes, a temporary
fatigue can be felt. These undesirable effects can be avoided by taking
spirulina at a low dose at the beginning of the treatment.
To conclude, although it is a micro alga, spirulina is a condensate of essential nutrients. It is possible to enjoy the benefits of spirulina in sports, during a slimming diet or even for its beauty effects. It can be taken during dietary deficiencies, during the change of season or as soon as you feel the need. In addition, spirulina can be used for the well-being of animals..