With the healthy lifestyle wave on the rise, we are sure you’ve heard words such as Kale, Matcha and Acai being tossed around. These foods and supplements belong to a group called the “Superfoods”, and among these abundantly wholesome variety is Spirulina.
These superfoods have been around since the very beginning. In 16th century Mexico, the Aztecs used Spirulina -which is a natural form of algae- as a food source. Spirulina is also said to have a longer history in Chad, as far back as the 9th century!
Today, millions of people across the globe are using this impressive superfood, and discovering plenty of health benefits along with its potent nutritive values.
So, what really makes Spirulina great? And why is it the superfood to look out for the next time you’re grocery shopping?
Many classify Spirulina as the mother of all superfoods and the most nutrient dense food on the planet! This is mainly due to its high concentration of protein and vitamins.
Spirulina is largely made up of protein (70% by weight!) and essential amino acids (important for muscle-building and fat-burning). It is a good source of antioxidants, B vitamins, and has a high natural iron content, making it ideal in boosting our immune systems during the upcoming cold winter months.
Still not convinced?
Let’s take a closer look and breakdown the most important benefits of Spirulina:
- Protein —> Spirulina has a complete source of high quality protein and is often compared to eggs for amount/gram. Its protein content is highly usable and has a net protein utilization rate of 50-60%. Protein gives our bodies a surge of energy, or as some call it; a wake up call. Having Spirulina for breakfast or throughout the day gives you that fuel you need to kickstart a productive day.
- Vitamin B1—> Helps increase energy, eye health, brain function, and is necessary for the digestion of fats and proteins in the body. Vitamin B1 can improve your memory, concentration power and mental alertness. It is also capable of keeping you looking young and fresh by having amazing anti-aging properties!
- Iron —> Spirulina is considered one of the best plant-sources of iron, making it ideal for those who follow a plant-based diet. Even those who consume red meats, Spirulina’s iron content is highly absorbable and very gentle on the stomach, making it an ideal source for both. Iron has many benefits such as, improving concentration, treating anemia and insomnia, eliminating fatigue and improving muscle function.
- Antioxidants —> Spirulina was found to have an ORAC of over 24,000 which is four times the ORAC score of blueberries. (ORAC score is generally used to measure antioxidant ability and concentration in food). Antioxidants are important in maintaining good health and in preventing disease.
- GLA —> Spirulina contains a natural GLA content, which is an omega 6 fatty acid that is usually difficult to find in food. It has impressive anti-inflammatory properties, which means that it has a high chance of helping with your allergies, and reducing the symptoms of or sometimes even curing a lot of diet-related diseases. And if that’s not enough, it also promotes healthy skin and hair, which just adds to its greatness.
Now you are probably wondering how you can incorporate this all-around amazing superfood into your daily lifestyle? Well, we’re offering you two recipes you can try at home; one for your inner beauty and one for your outer beauty!
Inner beauty smoothie
Recipe:
1 cup soy milk (or other plant-based milk).
1 cup fresh or frozen berries.
1 fresh of frozen ripe banana
2 tsp spirulina powder (found at Danube in Riyadh or Jeddah)
A little honey or maple syrup for some sweetness
Combine all ingredients and mix together in a blender, then pour into a glass, drink and enjoy!
Outer beauty face mask for healthier looking skin:
Recipe:
1 ripe banana
1/2 tsp spirulina powder
Mash your banana (all natural moisturizer) with a fork, make sure there are no lumps. Then, mix in the spirulina powder. Apply to a clean face, and keep it on for 10-20 minutes then rinse off with warm water, and finish off with a cold water rinse.
And voila! A happier complexion in minutes.