Superfood Profile: Blue-Green Algae and Spirulina Offer Many Health Benefits

[Guest guest]

http://www.naturalnews.com/027053_spirulina_algae_blue-green_algae.html

Today's scientists are only beginning to grasp the incredible nutritional value

of blue-green algae and spirulina, but these superfoods have a reputation that

reaches far back into history. A form of blue-green algae was consumed regularly

hundreds of years ago by Aztecs, while spirulina was a favorite among native

peoples in the Sahara desert region of Africa. Today blue-green algae and

spirulina are some of the top superfoods, providing extraordinary nutrition in a

time when most food sources are of poor nutritional quality.

Blue-green algae and spirulina, which is a specific form of blue-green algae,

are found in nature growing in the still, alkaline waters of lakes and ponds.

They are natural foods that have existed since life began. Their nutritional

content is broad and highly concentrated:

- Blue-green algae and spirulina are rich in vitamins A, C, E and the B-complex

vitamins, including vitamins B12 and B6. Since these vitamins are packaged in

their natural form, they are in a highly usable state that makes them far

superior to modern vitamin supplements. (It should be noted that some experts

don't consider the vitamin B12 in spirulina to be bioavailable, while others

disagree.)

- These foods are rich in natural minerals like calcium, magnesium and iron.

They are also an excellent source of trace minerals that are commonly lacking in

today's diet.

- Many of these vitamins and minerals exhibit antioxidant properties which aid

in the elimination of toxins and free-radicals, helping the body fight disease

and stay healthy. These elements also fight cancer - in fact, preliminary

studies point to spirulina as a natural anti-cancer agent.

- Spirulina and blue-green algae are highly effective for heavy metal detox, as

multiple studies have shown.

- Phycocyanin gives spirulina its unique blue-green color and perhaps its

anti-cancer properties. This specialized blue pigment is only found in

blue-green algae.

- Blue-green algae and spirulina are rich in protein, including the essential

amino acids. By comparison, spirulina produces twenty times more protein per

acre versus soybeans. Considering the rapidly declining reputation of soy,

spirulina could be considered a worthy replacement.

- Spirulina is rich in gamma linolenic acid (GLA), an essential fatty acid which

aids in the health of the joints and heart. It is also helpful for specific

issues like weight loss and premenstrual syndrome (PMS).

- Blue-green algae can help balance the flora in the gut, which aids digestion

and fights candida overgrowth.

- Spirulina is known for its ability to temper the appetite and stabilize blood

sugar levels. It may also help with food cravings.

- Studies have exhibited spirulina's amazing ability to reduce inflammation in

the body. This can be important in preventing and treating a variety of

conditions.

In spite of their nutritional punch, blue-green algae and spirulina do not pack

a lot of calories. This makes it effortless to incorporate these superfoods into

your diet regardless of your nutritional needs and preferences. It is important

to find a quality source of blue-green algae or spirulina. Poor quality

supplements may contain heavy metal contaminants and other toxins. Be sure to

examine the source of your blue-green algae and spirulina carefully before

buying.

For More Information:

http://healingdeva.com/blog/health-...

http://www.westonaprice.org/basicnu...

Balch, Phyllis A. Prescription for Nutritional Healing, 4th Edition. (2006)

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