A biomass of blue-green algae, spirulina can be eaten by both human beings as well as animals. Packed with nutrients, it is considered as a superfood, and its protein levels are comparable to that of eggs.
Top 8 Health Benefits Of Spirulina: Does Spirulina Reduce Inflammation?
Let’s delve deep into the major health benefits provided by spirulina.
1. Effective Against Cancer
Chronic inflammation can lead to cancer and several other diseases. Many antioxidants contained in spirulina come with anti-inflammatory effects. Phycocyanin, a pigment in spirulina, provides multiple benefits of reducing inflammation, preventing tumor growth and killing cancer cells.
2. Good For Heart Health
As per studies, the protein in spirulina can bring down your body’s absorption of cholesterol, thus reducing cholesterol levels. As a result, your arteries will be clear. Thus, it reduces the strain on your heart that causes heart disease and blood clots, the reason behind stroke. In addition to that, the protein also lowers triglyceride levels. Triglycerides can cause your arteries to harden, thus increasing the risk of heart disease.
3. Helps To Reduce Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is the main culprit behind heart attacks, strokes and chronic kidney disease. Research shows that consuming a dose of 4.5 grams spirulina per day can reduce blood pressure in people with normal levels. It is believed that this drop is caused due to an increased production of nitric oxide. To explain, nitric oxide is a molecule that aids your blood vessels to relax and dilate.
4. Helps To Control Blood Sugar Level
Research conducted in animals shows that it can play a major role in reducing blood sugar levels. Some studies reveal that it can be effective in humans as well. In a study performed among type 2 diabetes patients, it was found that 2 grams of spirulina a day resulted in an impressive decline in blood sugar levels.
5. Provides Relief Against Allergy
Since the antioxidants in spirulina have anti-inflammatory properties, it is effective against allergies caused by pollen, dust and animal hair. In a study, it was found that symptoms such as sneezing, congestion, and itching had reduced drastically among subjects. Thus, it shows that spirulina may work out as an effective alternative to allergy medications.
6. Effective Against Anemia
Though there are different forms of anemia, the most common type is the one where there will be a drop in hemoglobin or red blood cells in the blood. A common problem among older adults, anemia can cause prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue. In a study conducted among older people who are anemic, it supplements were found to boost the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and enhance immune function.
7. Provides Immune System Support
Spirulina is a rich source of vitamins E, C, and B6 and minerals that are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system. As per research studies, spirulina also increases the production of white blood cells and antibodies that combat viruses and bacteria in the human body.
8. Helps To Maintain Eye Protection And Oral Health
Zeaxanthin, a plant pigment contained in spirulina may bring down the risk of cataracts and age-related vision loss. Another benefit is that its antibacterial properties also enable good oral health. A study revealed that spirulina-enhanced mouthwash led to a reduction in dental plaque and the risk of gingivitis among subjects. The finding of another study is that it reduced the risk of oral cancer among those who chew tobacco.
Conclusion
Hope the blog provided valuable insights into the unknown benefits of spirulina. Apart from the ones discussed above, spirulina also improves muscle strength and endurance and helps lower LDL cholesterol.
