Until the 16th century, the Aztecs and other Mesoamericans used spirulina as their source of food. In the 1960s, the French Researchers found this alga in the Lake Texcoco in abundance. It is a renewable energy source full of cyanobacteria and is consumable by humans and animals. Hence, it is also known as organic spirulina.
There are three species of spirulina- Arthrospira platensis, A. fusiformis, and A. maxima. Its cultivation takes place worldwide and is also used as a feed supplement in the aquarium, poultry, and aquaculture. A report by Harvard Medical School says spirulina can grow in extreme natural conditions as well. Since it is harvested in lakes and freeze-dried, it holds a bluish-green colour.
Let’s understand why spirulina is the nutritional superfood for a human body.
Rich in Nutrients
Organic spirulina is a rich source of beta-carotene and has 60% of plant protein. Also, it provides eight essential amino acids required to aid digestion. It consists of natural minerals, bio-available iron, and B vitamins. Although it lacks vitamin B12 found in meat, fish, poultry, and eggs, it has Omega 6 fatty acid GLA, which is often found missing in modern foods.
Sources say spirulina has powerful phytonutrient action, which is 31 times more powerful than blueberries, 60 times more intense than spinach, and 700 times more potent than apples. The other most vital nutrients required to boost the immune system of a human body are found in spirulina. They are Zeaxanthin, Phycocyanin, and Superoxide Dismutase.
Improves Health and Dietary Conditions
Spirulina became food in the early 16th century, but its cultivation started in the late 1880s. It is also famous as the miracle seafood as it is a boon to humanity. Its rich source of nutrients and supposed health benefits help in improving the body from inside. The Allied Market Research claims the Spirulina market will grow by $779 million by 2026.
Its cultivation began on a larger scale in the 1970s to reach the masses, and now more than 22 countries cultivate spirulina commercially. Its demand increased because it had the power to boost metabolism, lower the bad cholesterol levels, improve energy levels, aid in digestion, fight the weight issues, and protect against cold and flu.
Builds Antibodies to Fight Toxins
In a fast-paced life, we often eat junk food and street-food that tends to build toxins in our body. Sometimes we may even drink water that is contaminated, harms the kidney functions, and damages its inner lines. But with the consumption of spirulina, the body builds a strong resistance power to fight these toxins.
A report from Medical News Today, states that this food also fights the highly toxic elements like arsenic, fluoride, lead, iron, and mercury. Spirulina has anti-toxic factors that reduce the damage caused by such pollutants.
Boosts Mental Health
Spirulina also has a critical source called Tryptophan. Researchers say tryptophan aids the production of serotonin, which is required to support mental health.
Many experts suggest people suffering from anxiety, depression, and mood swings, must consume spirulina. The production of serotonin improves mental health and reduces the stress levels to a certain level.
