Spirulina beneficial properties and scientific facts

An impressive list of beneficial properties makes superfoods desirable additions to the diet of anyone who cares about health. One of these supplements is spirulina, the beneficial properties and contraindications of which are discussed not only by supporters of a healthy lifestyle - scientists and doctors also show noticeable interest.

It became the subject of scientific research several decades ago. During this time, many interesting facts have accumulated about its effect on the body.

From the article you will learn:

what is spirulina for?
how to use;
what is useful;
can it harm and to whom;
how to protect yourself when choosing;
a simple recipe from available products;
What kind of “superfood” is this and where did it come from?

Spirulina algae: what is it and what is it used for

Arthrospira is a popular dietary supplement and a recognized superfood, commercially known as Spirulina. This is a complete protein of plant origin, containing all essential acids - the dried product contains up to 60% protein. It is also a rich source of potassium, iron and essential fatty acids. The cyanobacterium spirulina has many beneficial properties.

Her “track record” includes:

liver protection,
strengthening the immune system,
help in treating anemia,
regulation of body weight and appetite,
reducing the level of “bad” cholesterol.

Cyanobacteria, or blue-green algae, are among the oldest microorganisms that have inhabited our planet for billions of years. They have an extraordinary ability to survive.

Cyano means 'blue' in Greek. These microalgae contain chlorophyll (green), phycocyanins and anthocyanins (blue), which when mixed give the product its characteristic blue-green color.

Because of their large size for bacteria, scientists first classified them as plants. Now all forms of cyanobacteria, including spirulina, or Arthrospira (lat.), are classified as bacteria. However, the name “blue-green algae” remains.

How does spirulina help you lose weight?

Taking spirulina activates metabolic processes in the body, which accelerates the breakdown of fats and carbohydrates;
rich in protein nutrition, spirulina helps saturate our body with proteins without extra calories (we overeat less, fats do not accumulate, there is no oppressive feeling of hunger);
there is a smooth normalization of the gastrointestinal tract and an improvement in the functioning of the intestines by cleansing the body of toxic substances (therefore, weight correction programs with the help of Tianshi drugs always additionally include Chitosan in capsules to speed up the cleansing process);
the deposition of adipose tissue is reduced, the level of cholesterol in the blood is leveled;
spirulina is rich in microelements that are necessary for the proper functioning of the organs and systems of our body. By receiving them in sufficient quantities, we can provide our body with everything it needs to function properly. This allows you not to “stock up on fat for a rainy day.”
By increasing tone and normalizing hemoglobin levels, spirulina helps us feel stronger and more energetic. And when you have strength, you want to move and do something, spending extra kcal.

To get the maximum effect in the shortest possible time, you should combine spirulina with moderate physical activity and a balanced diet.

How to get this superfood

Under natural conditions, arthrospira lives only in two lakes (in Africa and Mexico). The production of this food additive is established in Europe, the USA, China, India, Thailand, Pakistan and many other countries. Spirulina farms are also opening in Russia.

Microalgae are grown in artificial reservoirs, then dried or frozen. With the first method of harvesting spirulina, preservatives and stabilizers can be added. As a result, digestibility and benefits are reduced, and the potential harm is increased, therefore, the frozen option is preferable.

To obtain a product with a high level of safety and benefit, it is important to follow a number of rules when producing spirulina. For example, due to its ability to absorb heavy metals from the environment, some farms regularly test for their presence.

Ideally, cultivation should be in a controlled environment, free of pesticides and fertilizers, and away from pollutants. Try to choose manufacturers with a good reputation.

Detailed chemical composition of spirulina

Arthrospira is known for its “protein” properties, so it is often recommended to vegetarians and vegans as a source of easily digestible, complete protein (including all essential amino acids).

It contains a large proportion of other nutrients, the source of which is often recommended from animal products.

There are up to 150 times more B vitamins in spirulina than in dairy and meat products, as well as eggs.
Vitamin A is even more interesting - it is 300–400 times more abundant than in cheeses and butter.
There is three times more vitamin E than in wheat germ.
The beta-carotene content in atrospire is 25 times higher than in carrots.
The high bioavailability of iron makes it one of the important natural supplements for iron deficiency conditions.

Spirulina protein includes the substance phycocyanin, a powerful natural immunostimulant. Chlorophyll in the composition helps to heal the liver and has an anti-cancer effect. It also has an amazing range of anthocyanins - antioxidant phytonutrients. These anthocyanins are known for their powerful anti-carcinogenic properties.

Some of the antioxidants found in spirulina include selenium, phenolic acid, vitamin E, and carotenoids. Antioxidants destroy free radicals in the body that damage cells.

Microalgae spirulina: composition1

Nutrients	Mass fraction, %
Protein	60–70
Carbohydrates	10–15
Lipids	6,5–8,0
Ash	7,5–8,0
Cellulose	2,0
Carotenoids	0,22–0,40
Chlorophyll	0,76–0,94
Phycocyanin	0,8–1,0
Omega-6 unsaturated fatty acids	2-2,6
Calcium	0,12
Phosphorus	0,83
Potassium	1,4
Sodium	0,03
Magnesium	0,37
Iron	0,05
Zinc	0,003

Vitamins	mg/kg
Beta carotene	1 100–2 400
B1	55
B2	35
B6	3-8
B12	1,6-3,2
E	190

How to drink

An important note: you need to drink omega-3, and not omega-6 and -9, as they tend to cause inflammatory processes in the body. The content of DHA and EPA should be at least 200–300 mg. Children should drink 1000 mg per day, adults - 2000. More is needed only if, for example, a couple is preparing for IVF. But here, of course, a doctor’s consultation is required.

Spirulina: properties and health benefits

This microalgae has rightfully earned the respect of doctors and scientists. Many studies, books and articles are devoted to it. This is an effective remedy for normalizing metabolism, compensating for vitamin and mineral deficiencies.

The effect of spirulina on the body:

Has an antioxidant, immunomodulatory, anti-inflammatory effect2
Reduces appetite, improves lipid profile3
Improves brain health, has a neuroprotective effect, reduces mental fatigue4
Improves the condition of intestinal microflora, reduces inflammation5
Protects and restores the liver in case of toxic damage6
Improves blood condition in case of anemia7
Reduces hyperglycemia and oxidative stress in diabetes8

The benefits of using spirulina for children are also undeniable. It can be given to children in either powder or tablet form.

Description

The dietary supplement "Spirulina" contains seaweed, which is quite rich in chemical composition.

They contain:

important amino acids;
lauric acid;
stearic acid;
beta-linoleic acid;
carotenoids;
chlorophylls;
phycocyanin;
vitamin A;
B vitamins;
calcium;
fluorine;
zinc;
magnesium;
potassium;
selenium;
chlorine;
sodium;
iron;
phosphorus;
palmitic acid.

The drug is available in the form:

tablets;
suspensions;
chips;
capsules;
powder.

Quite recently, the production of bars with honey and nuts began.

Spirulina: beneficial properties for women and more

During pregnancy, superfoods become a real lifesaver. Synthetic vitamins and supplements are gradually losing their position due to low effectiveness and risks of side effects.

Natural supplements come onto the scene to help improve your condition with minimal risks. Due to its nutritional value, Arthrospira helps maintain and strengthen health during pregnancy, when the need for nutrients increases.

The benefits of spirulina for hair are no less important for women. A variety of antioxidants, essential fatty acids, and cleansing nutrients promote healthy skin and hair. Consuming this cyanobacterium helps combat the causes of hair loss, loss of skin tone and other signs of aging.

The use of spirulina for the skin is not limited to ingestion - creams and masks with this cyanobacterium tone, smooth out wrinkles, and improve skin health.

The high content of amino acids and vitamins helps skin regeneration, nourishes and rejuvenates. Spirulina-based acne products have also been shown to be effective and safe.

Spirulina - super fat burner based on algae

All information is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The system, methods, methods of treatment, necessary medications can only be prescribed by your attending physician.

An effective fat burner Spirulina, containing seaweed, is not just a well-functioning drug for weight correction.

This is a natural product that does not contain any artificial additives or chemical components in the form of dyes, preservatives and synthetic substances.

The result of the action of the active components of the drug - blue-green microalgae - is rapid weight loss and replenishment of the body with vital complexes of vitamins, minerals, macro- and microelements, which are not found in any other natural product known to science.

pharmachologic effect

The composition of algae includes the most valuable, easily processed natural protein, which occupies at least 65% of the total volume.

In addition, it includes:

A set of 18 unique natural amino acids, eight of which are classified as essential. Essential amino acids are substances that the body does not synthesize but receives from food and drinks.
Complex of nucleic acids (RNA and DNA).
Substances xanthophyll and phycocyanin.
Vitamin A complexes, Vit. group B (B1, B2, B6, B12, B5, B9), Vit. E.
Important macronutrients.
Valuable acids (polyunsaturated fatty acids):
Orachidonic.
Linolinic.

Super fat burner – lose weight and improve metabolism

The content of a large amount of valuable acids allows you to use the drug:

Naturally improve disturbed general metabolism.
Normalize lipid metabolism (fat).
Reduce the amount of “bad” cholesterol.
Activate the synthesis of “good” cholesterol.
Adjust triglyceride balance.
Replenish valuable dietary fiber.
Cleanse tissues of waste and toxins - waste products of pathogenic microorganisms.
Clear the intestines of ballast substances.
Normalize disrupted digestive processes.
Activate the work of the gastrointestinal tract.
Increase overall immunity.
Normalize the intestinal microflora and eliminate the consequences of currently widespread dysbiosis.
Ensure normal blood glucose levels.
Normalize excessive appetite.
Improve the condition of hair, skin, nails.
Reduce excess weight.

The substance is a valuable component of food supplements, which is included in many popular drugs for the treatment and prevention of a number of diseases. Thanks to spirulina, you can successfully cope with difficult-to-treat unaesthetic skin problems - chronic furunculosis, acne, various rashes, including complex inflammatory suppurations that cannot be treated with traditional methods.

Algae is part of the most effective and safe masks for the skin and provides:

Treatment of acne, any other skin rashes of various origins and degrees, as well as complex furunculosis.
Increases skin firmness and elasticity.
Natural rejuvenating effect.
A preventive action aimed at overall health of the skin and the entire body as a whole.

Attention! It is recommended to combine spirulina in capsules for internal use and algae masks, in which case there is a mutual enhancement of their healing effect on each other.

Indications for use

Capsules are recommended:

People with obesity.
In case of reduced immunity.
For any skin problems.
As a rejuvenating agent.
To replenish with valuable unique components.
For problems in the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract (liver, stomach, intestines, gallbladder, pancreas).
In case of persistent chronic constipation.
As part of complex therapy for many chronic pathologies of the body.
In case of iron deficiency anemia.
For the prevention of malignant anemia.
For vascular atherosclerosis.
As a natural medicine for the treatment of heart failure.
For any malignant neoplasms.

Attention! Taking capsules is justified not only in case of health problems. It is recommended for healthy people to take natural capsules as an effective and safe preventive measure.

Composition of the drug

Each capsule contains a precisely selected dose of natural ingredients:

Spiral algae.
Dried tangerine peel.
Cassia tora grass.
Mulberry bark.

Method of use and course of administration

Recommended period of use:

20 days.

Result:

Weight loss by 10-15 kg, subject to dosage and lifestyle and nutrition requirements.

The result depends on many factors, including the individual characteristics of the body and concomitant diseases.

Use for weight loss in highly obese patients:

40 days.

Result:

Elimination of excess subcutaneous fat in problem areas (hips, waist, buttocks).

Improving the general condition of the body and the appearance of skin, hair and nails.

Moreover, a positive result, according to patient reviews, is observed in many cases after 10-14 days of regular use according to the instructions.

Dosage

Two 2 capsules once a day in the morning before meals.

This is a natural remedy that is a highly effective complex with which you can achieve weight loss in a short time and without negative health consequences.

Massive short action

Blitz use for 18-20 days allows you to lose weight by 5-8 kg and reduce fat deposition in problem areas.

The result is observed after three days.

Long treatment course

A course of about 1.5 months ensures weight loss of 10 kilograms or more, while improving appearance and eliminating not only fat, but also providing a prolonged result that consolidates the effect obtained.

Result:

Reducing fat deposits in problem areas (thighs, buttocks, abdomen), improving the condition of skin, hair, nails, strengthening general protective functions. The formation of a good figure occurs after two weeks of regular use.

For a safe cosmetic effect

It is recommended to conduct maintenance courses aimed at improving the appearance and rejuvenation of the body. Spirulina helps smooth out fine wrinkles, reduce deep ones, increases skin turgor, ensuring its elasticity while rapidly losing kilograms.

This is an indispensable drug that must be included in complex therapy if any other drugs are used for weight correction.

Contraindications for use

You should not take:

During pregnancy.
During lactation.
In case of individual intolerance to the ingredients.
If you have severe arterial hypertension (high blood pressure that is difficult to normalize).
In case of complex chronic kidney pathologies.
With Graves' disease.

Release form

Capsules. One capsule 450 mg of active bioconcentrate.

We also recommend looking at the list of the best diet pills TOP 20

Material prepared by: Irina Lazur
Last modified: 2020-11-20 Date of writing: 2016-10-3

Consuming Spirulina: How to Take for Maximum Benefits

Arthrospira is produced in the form of powder, granules, capsules or tablets. There is also a frozen version, but the price for such products is higher.

Choose the manufacturer carefully, find out the composition - chemicals may be added to the final product to increase shelf life or give it shape.

When cooking, it is more convenient to use spirulina powder; There is no universal answer to how to take it to get better results. If there is a specific task, and even more so a diagnosis, you need to consult a competent specialist (doctor, nutritionist).

General recommendations are:

The daily preventive norm for adults is 2–5 g, for children — 1–2 g.
It is advisable to consume half an hour before meals with one or two glasses of water.
Taken in courses of 3–4 weeks. Then take a break for 1-2 weeks and you can repeat.

How to drink spirulina for weight loss in tablets?

The product can come in the form of capsules and tablets, which are easy to take. But not everyone knows how to take spirulina tablets to lose weight in a short period of time. This drug is suitable for people who rarely eat at home, since they can take it with them everywhere.

If you are interested in spirulina tablets, instructions for use for weight loss are indicated on a special insert. The main rule is that you need to take a tablet half an hour before a meal. The drug should be taken in the morning without breakfast. You can determine the duration of the course yourself, focusing on your well-being and the results that you managed to obtain.

How to drink spirulina for weight loss in tablets

The effect of spirulina on the body for weight loss begins immediately. For the drug to have the desired effect, take additional supplements with this ingredient. This is the norm for those people who are interested in getting rid of extra pounds.

Now you know how to take spirulina in diet pills to make your figure attractive and slim. Follow the rules established by the manufacturer, otherwise side effects may occur. Your doctor will tell you how to take spirulina for weight loss in tablets, and will also help you choose the right drug, focusing on the characteristics of your body.

When is the best time to take spirulina and why?

Ideally, consume spirulina in the morning on an empty stomach. As a result, the detoxification process will intensify and the healing effect will accelerate.

Taking it on an empty stomach with water will help:

reduce cravings for sweets,
accelerate the elimination of toxins,
get rid of excess weight,
improve metabolic processes,
feel full faster while eating.

If you are planning to use spirulina for weight loss, this intake option is for you! As a bonus, you will experience an improvement in your lipid profile and cardiovascular health.

And arthrospira can be combined with another single-celled algae - chlorella. The therapeutic effect is enhanced (do not forget to recalculate the dosage).

Some people don’t like the taste of spirulina at all - how to drink if the additive tastes bad? Use the capsule version, or better yet, choose another manufacturer - perhaps this arthrospira is contaminated with other microalgae, which causes an unpleasant swampy taste.

Three tips on how to properly take spirulina in other products

This superfood is not meant to be cooked.
It is better to add to freshly prepared dishes. Place uneaten food in the refrigerator.
If possible, combine with several glasses of liquid. This will enhance the effect.

Action

Thanks to its unique composition, the algae has a healing effect on all life support systems, namely:

lowers cholesterol and blood glucose levels, which reduces the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and diabetes;
stops inflammatory processes, increases the body’s ability to resist the spread of cancer cells;
is an effective antioxidant, blocks the action of NADPH oxidase, which contributes to the development of pathologies of the cardiovascular system, obesity, diabetes, allergic reactions, skin diseases and arthrosis;
improves the functioning of the immune system;
helps reduce body mass index;
increases the body's endurance, reduces muscle recovery after intense physical training;
protects the brain during intoxication of the body, prevents the accumulation of proteins and toxins, which helps slow down the development of Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease in older people;
has a beneficial effect on kidney function; regular use reduces the level of creatinine and urea nitrogen in the blood.

This is only a small part of the beneficial properties of spirulina tablets. A complete list of indications, effects on the body, dosage and methods of use are indicated in the instructions that should accompany the drug.

Smoothie recipe with spirulina and banana

To avoid losing the nutritional value of arthrospira when preparing smoothies, follow two rules:

do not heat,
Do not add cow's milk.

In the first case, nutrients are destroyed, in the second, their digestibility is impaired. It is better to use plant-based milk, such as oat, coconut or sesame.

The simplest version of a smoothie consists of only three ingredients:

1 glass of water or plant milk,
1 ripe banana;
1 teaspoon of spirulina (optional).

Peel the banana and mix with the remaining ingredients in a blender. This is the base; you can add berries, pieces of fruit, vegetables and herbs to it.

Contraindications:

individual intolerance to components;
for hypertension and Graves' disease;
for kidney problems - only together with Tienshi Cordyceps.

Please note that recently, ordinary kelp mixed with green tea has been sold under the guise of spirulina.

Spirulina Tianshi is a natural algae grown in natural conditions, which provides it with nutrients and microelements and allows you to effectively fight excess weight.

The official representative office of Tiansha in Moscow at the address: Moscow, Komsomolsky Prospekt, building 7с2 +7 You can find out how to take the drug from our specialists.

Spirulina: contraindications and potential risks

Despite the numerous beneficial properties proven by science, this blue-green algae has nuances that do not allow it to be used without reservations. Here are the three main risks; a full list of contraindications is below.

Risk 1. Heavy metals and microcystin

Batches of spirulina may be contaminated with fragments of other forms of cyanobacteria, which contain the toxin microcystin. The use of this toxin is fraught with intestinal disorders, and with long-term use even liver cancer. There is also a risk of product contamination with heavy metals. Therefore, be extremely scrupulous in choosing a manufacturer.

Risk 2: Cleansing and blood-thinning properties are not beneficial for everyone.

The ability to thin the blood and accelerate the removal of waste and toxins from the body impose restrictions in some diseases. For example, during chemotherapy, spirulina can interfere with the medicinal effect of drugs, as it promotes the rapid removal of harmful substances. The same applies to sand and stones in the kidneys and liver. The use of this cyanobacterium along with turmeric, garlic and other blood thinning products or drugs is also not recommended.

Risk 3. Additive specificity

Individual intolerance is possible, the side effects of which may include headache, sweating, nausea, difficulty concentrating and facial flushing. Therefore, it makes sense to start taking spirulina with small doses.

Full list of contraindications:

hyperthyroidism,
phenylketonuria,
kidney and liver stones,
individual intolerance,
recent strokes and heart attacks,
taking anticoagulants (drugs or substances that thin the blood).

Spirulina for weight loss: how it works

normalization of metabolic processes in the body - one of the main reasons for the appearance of excess weight caused by an unbalanced diet and a sedentary lifestyle;
normalization of lipid metabolism and reduction of bad cholesterol in the blood;
cleansing the body of waste, toxins and heavy metal salts;
due to the high protein content (10 grams of algae extract is equivalent to the amount of protein in 1 kg of beef) and the ability to coat the stomach walls of the body under the influence of water;
satiates with less food, which reduces the intake of excess calories and leads to natural weight loss without the constant feeling of hunger.

Please note that the drug provides not only a reduction in excess body weight, but also provides the body with nutrients and microelements that help cleanse and normalize digestion. Such weight loss not only does not pose any danger or harm to health, but also helps to compensate for the lack of microelements in the body.

It is important to understand that the drug is not a fat burning agent. It helps normalize digestion and processes in the body, cleanses the body of waste and toxins, which leads to natural weight loss.