Hello everyone!
My pharmacist advised me the other day to start supplementing with spiroulina…As i had no clue regarding what it was i made some search and the results are unreal…
and i quote…
Protein;
Spirulina contains an unusually high amount of protein, between 55% and 77% by dry weight, depending upon the source. It is a complete protein,[citation needed] containing all essential amino acids, though with reduced amounts of methionine, cysteine, and lysine when compared to the proteins of meat, eggs, and milk. It is, however, superior to typical plant protein
Essential fatty acids;
Spirulina is rich in gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), and also provides alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), linoleic acid (LA), stearidonic acid (SDA), eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA), docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), and arachidonic acid (AA).
Minerals;
Spirulina is a rich source of potassium, and also contains calcium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, sodium, and zinc.
Human Research;
Spirulina is effective for the clinical improvement of melanosis and keratosis due to chronic arsenic poisoning;[16] improves weight-gain and corrects anemia in both HIV-infected and HIV-negative undernourished children;[17] and protects against hay fever.[18]
A 2007 study [19] found that 36 volunteers taking 4.5 grams of spirulina per day, over a six week period, exhibited significant changes in cholesterol and blood pressure: (1) lowered total cholesterol; (2) increased HDL cholesterol; (3) lowered triglycerides; and (4) lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
Advocates;
The United Nations World Food Cenference in 1974 lauded Spirulina as the ‘best food for the future.’ Recognising the inherent potential of Spirulina in the sustainable development agenda, several Member States of the United Nations came together to form an intergovernmental organization by the name of the Intergovernmental Institution for the Use of Micro-algae Spirulina Against Malnutrition.[20] IIMSAM aspires to build a consensus to make Spirulina a key driver to eradicate malnutrition, achieve food security and bridge the health divide throughout the world.
Spirulina has been proposed by both NASA (CELSS)[21] and the European Space Agency (MELISSA)[22] as one of the primary foods to be cultivated during long-term space missions.
Side effects, precautions, interactions;
Spirulina is considered generally safe. Possible side effects include headache, muscle pain, flushing and sweating. People with allergies to spirulina should avoid products containing spirulina. No interactions of spirulina with foods, medications, or herbs are documented. Spirulina grown in water contaminated with heavy metals can concentrate these toxins. Therefore, it is important to purchase products from qualified manufacturers and suppliers
What will spirulina do for athletes;
Athletes need extra nutrition. Spirulina is a high intensity superfood for a high intensity workout. Taken before jogging or competition, it delivers energy and improves stamina. Bikers, backpackers and mountain climbers will appreciate this lightweight survival food. For bodybuilders, it offers 60% protein and amino acids, low in fat. It’s helpful for reducing caloric intake, essential for maintaining competitive weight.
World Class athletes use spirulina to improve performance. The Cuban Ministry of Sports gave it to their athletes to intensify training before the 1996 Olympic games. Cuban track stars have consumed it for many years. They say it helps create and mend muscle mass and helps iron retention. It improves endurance and wards off cramping for marathoners. When training increases appetite, spirulina curbs hunger.
“When I was invited to the largest Chinese training center for 2000 athletes, I thought I was going to introduce them to spirulina. But, I soon found out it was their secret ingredient they’d been using for five years. The trainers said they prescribed it for athletes for all sports. It boosts the immune system and improves recovery, so their athletes can intensify training, for which they are famous. Where does their spirulina come from? I found out this Chinese training center has its own, private and exclusive spirulina farm.”
Please note that all the above information are taken from the net…
Has anybody here used this supplement and to what effects?
George