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Spirulina is a microscopic, spiral-shaped, blue-green alga that has gained immense popularity in recent years due to its numerous health benefits. This natural superfood is rich in essential nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, proteins, and antioxidants, making it a valuable addition to a balanced diet. Spirulina has been consumed by various cultures since ancient times and is now widely available in various forms, such as powder, capsules, and tablets.
The uses of spirulina are diverse and extend beyond the realms of nutrition. Its high protein concentration makes it an excellent source of plant-based protein for vegetarians and vegans. Moreover, spirulina is often incorporated into smoothies, energy bars, and other food products to enhance their nutritional value. Its vibrant green color also lends itself well to natural food coloring and is utilized in the culinary world to create visually appealing dishes.
However, like any popular product, the market for spirulina has also attracted some unscrupulous individuals who may attempt to sell counterfeit or adulterated versions of this superfood. It is therefore important to be able to distinguish between genuine spirulina and fake or low-quality alternatives. This article will explore the characteristics and uses of spirulina, as well as provide useful tips on how to identify and obtain authentic spirulina products to ensure maximum health benefits.
Spirulina is popular among women because of its ability to slow down the aging process and maintain beauty. Besides, spirulina also has a very good tonic and restorative effect for the elderly.
What is spirulina and what are its uses? How to distinguish real and fake algae? Find out with Thptlaihoa.edu.vn to choose quality spirulina and how to use it properly to maximize its health benefits.
What is Spirulina?
Spirulina (scientific name Spirulina Platensis ) is an ancient single-celled blue-green algae, with a green spiral form made up of many single cells.
In 1960, spirulina was discovered by French scientist Clement in Lake Chad (Central Africa) . By 1963, spirulina was cultivated on an industrial scale and recognized by WHO as a valuable source of medicinal herbs for health in 1973.
Since 1984, the United Nations IIMSAM has used spirulina to cure malnutrition in more than 2 million children around the world. This proves that spirulina has outstanding health values.
In the wild, spirulina can grow well in subtropical oceans and saltwater lakes . However, spirulina can also grow well in both saltwater and freshwater environments.
Currently, spirulina mainly originates from Japan . To maximize the health benefits of algae, spirulina is usually made into a powder or compressed into round tablets with a suitable dose per day.
Nutritional value of spirulina
According to the United States Department of Agriculture, in 7g of dried spirulina powder contains:
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Protein: 4g (The protein in spirulina is high quality, equivalent to eggs)
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Copper: 21% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
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Iron: 11% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
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Vitamin B2: 15% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
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Vitamin B1: 11% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
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Vitamin B3: 4% of the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA)
Besides, spirulina also contains a variety of amino acids, types of Omega-3, Omega-6 and potassium, magnesium which are very good for health.
Reasonable dose of spirulina
Although spirulina contains many substances that are very good for health, if you overuse it, it will also cause bad side effects.
The appropriate dose for algae to maximize its health benefits is from 2 to 3 grams per day . You can start using it with a small dose and increase it slowly to let your body adapt better.
To support weight loss, you should drink it about 30 minutes before each meal to reduce hunger.
To support weight gain, you should drink it after each meal.
Note: If you have other health problems, consult your doctor before using spirulina.
The outstanding uses of spirulina
Anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidant
Spirulina contains a lot of phynosianin. This is a substance that has the ability to fight free radicals and inhibit the production of inflammatory signaling molecules. As a result, spirulina has effective antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
At the same time, this antioxidant also helps algae have a characteristic green-blue color.
Regulate cholesterol, reduce the possibility of heart disease
Spirulina can reduce the amount of Triglyceride, LDL – Cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and can increase the amount of HDL – Cholesterol (good cholesterol). Thereby reducing the risk of heart diseases.
Effective prevention and reduction of precancerous lesions
Spirulina has been studied for its ability to prevent and reduce oral precancerous lesions.
A study in the journal PubMed found that in 87 Indians undergoing pre-cancer treatment, consuming 1 gram of spirulina per day for a year caused 45% of their lesions to disappear. These lesions gradually reappeared after they stopped taking spirulina for about 1 year.
Regulates blood pressure and prevents the risk of stroke
High blood pressure is the main cause of stroke problems. Using spirulina daily can increase the production of nitric oxide – a signaling molecule that helps dilate blood vessels in the body.
Improve allergic rhinitis
Allergic rhinitis can be caused by many causes: environment, pollen, wheat flour, … Allergic rhinitis is a sign of inflammation of the respiratory tract and causes discomfort and inconvenience to sufferers. Right.
A study by the journal PubMed on 127 people with allergic rhinitis, using spirulina 2g / day can reduce stuffy, itchy nose.
Improve muscular endurance
Oxidative damage during exercise is a major cause of muscle fatigue. Supplementing with plant-based foods with antioxidants can help minimize these damage. Therefore, supplementing with spirulina can reduce fatigue and increase muscle endurance.
How to distinguish real and fake spirulina
Spirulina has many very good uses for the body. In which the Japanese spirulina 2000 tablet form is the most popular and used type. Therefore, counterfeiting of this algae is also very high in the market.
You can distinguish real and fake spirulina tablets through the following details:
Characteristic
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Authentic product
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Counterfeiting
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Outer box packaging
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Components printed 4,800 – 12,000 µg. Printed with: (nipponseiーnihonsei) means Made in Japan
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No component printing 4,800 – 12,000 µg. No text: (nipponseiーnihonsei)
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Algae pellet shape
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There is a greener color, the contour of the medicine is smoother and more defined
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The tablet has a high gloss. When you hold it in your hand, it will smear blue on your hand.
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Taste
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There is a fishy smell from fresh algae flavor
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No smell or chemical smell.
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Tip: To check if a product is genuine, you can use barcode scanning software. If the product has a barcode, you can safely use it.
Hopefully through this article you have learned another good source of nutrients for the body and health from spirulina. Wish you always have a lot of health!
Source: US Department of Agriculture, PubMed . magazine
Thptlaihoa.edu.vn
In conclusion, spirulina is a type of blue-green microalgae that is packed with essential nutrients and offers numerous health benefits. Its high protein content, abundance of vitamins and minerals, and antioxidant properties make it a valuable dietary supplement. Additionally, spirulina has been found to possess anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting abilities, thereby contributing to overall wellness. Its potential applications range from improving cardiovascular health and aiding in weight management to supporting liver function and reducing allergic reactions.
However, it is important to be cautious when purchasing spirulina products, as there are cases of counterfeit or low-quality options in the market. To ensure that you are getting genuine spirulina, it is advisable to buy from reputable sources or directly from trusted manufacturers. Authentic spirulina should have a fresh, greenish-blue color and a distinct, algae-like smell. It should dissolve easily in water, leaving behind no residue or clumps. Furthermore, checking for third-party certifications, such as organic, non-GMO, and quality control labels, can also help guarantee the authenticity of the product.
Overall, incorporating spirulina into one’s diet can contribute to improved health and well-being, but careful selection and verification of its source are crucial to enjoy its full range of benefits. With its remarkable nutritional value and incredible versatility, spirulina holds great promise as a natural and sustainable superfood for the future.
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