Blue spirulina is derived from the blue-green algae Arthrospira platensis. This nutrient-dense superfood is rich in high-quality protein, essential vitamins, minerals, and all nine essential amino acids. Its distinctive blue hue comes from phycocyanin, a powerful antioxidant that sets it apart from its green counterpart. As more individuals seek natural ways to enhance their well-being, blue spirulina has emerged as a go-to option for health enthusiasts and nutrition experts.
Let’s explore the top 15 health benefits of blue spirulina and discover how it may enhance your health and wellness.
One of the standout benefits of blue spirulina is its powerful antioxidant properties, primarily due to phycocyanin. This pigment combats oxidative stress by neutralizing free radicals, which can lead to cellular damage and chronic diseases. Regular consumption may significantly lower oxidative stress markers, promoting overall cellular health and vitality.
Research(1) shows that spirulina helps strengthen the immune system by increasing the production of red and white blood cells, which are important for fighting off infections. It also stimulates key immune cells that help defend the body and promotes the creation of antibodies that protect against illnesses. By supporting various aspects of immune function, blue spirulina can be a valuable addition to wellness routines.
Thanks to its high protein, vitamin, and mineral content, blue spirulina serves as a natural energy booster. With approximately 60% protein, it provides a complete source of amino acids essential for muscle repair and energy production. Additionally, its B vitamin content supports metabolism, making it ideal for combating fatigue and maintaining energy levels throughout the day.
Blue spirulina enhances skin and hair health through its antioxidant properties. The high levels of phycocyanin improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, and impart a youthful glow. It protects skin cells from oxidative stress, which can lead to premature aging. Its rich nutrient profile, including vitamins A, C, and E, supports collagen production for firmer, hydrated skin. For hair health, the essential amino acids and minerals in blue spirulina promote growth and strength while preventing thinning. Regular consumption may nourish hair follicles, resulting in healthier, shinier hair.
Another benefit of blue spirulina is its potent anti-inflammatory effects, making it valuable for managing chronic conditions such as arthritis and asthma. By lowering inflammation, symptoms associated with these conditions may be alleviated, thereby helping in improving overall quality of life.
Blue spirulina may aid in weight management due to its high protein content and ability to promote satiety. It helps curb appetite, keeping you feeling full longer, which can be particularly beneficial for weight loss or maintenance. Adding it to smoothies or salads may help you stay on track with your healthy eating plan.
Blue spirulina supports mental clarity and cognitive function by reducing oxidative damage in brain cells. This protection is crucial as oxidative stress is linked to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. The benefits of regular intake of blue spirulina may improve memory and overall mental clarity, particularly in aging populations.
Blue spirulina aids in detoxification processes by binding to heavy metals like lead, mercury, and arsenic, facilitating their removal from the body. This detoxifying property minimizes the toxic burden on vital organs, promoting a healthier internal environment.
Research(2) suggests that blue spirulina may reduce fasting blood glucose levels, aiding in diabetes management and improving insulin sensitivity. Its ability to support metabolic health makes it a valuable supplement for individuals seeking to regulate their blood sugar levels.
Blue spirulina’s benefits include promoting heart health by lowering LDL (bad cholesterol) levels and improving triglyceride profiles. Regular consumption may help reduce cholesterol levels and regulate blood pressure, collectively supporting cardiovascular health and lowering the risk of heart disease.
Blue spirulina acts as a prebiotic, feeding beneficial gut bacteria and promoting a balanced microbiome. This support is essential for efficient digestion and nutrient absorption. Its natural anti-inflammatory properties also help soothe the digestive tract, alleviating discomfort such as bloating and gas.
Another advantage of blue spirulina is its ability to alleviate symptoms of allergic rhinitis by reducing inflammation and blocking histamine release, both of which play a role in allergic reactions. In a study(3), individuals who consumed spirulina reported a significant reduction in allergy symptoms, highlighting its potential effectiveness in allergy management.
Due to its high iron content, another benefit of blue spirulina is its effectiveness in preventing and treating anemia. Iron is essential for producing hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. By boosting red blood cell production, blue spirulina enhances oxygen delivery to tissues, which is vital for maintaining energy levels.
Athletes often use blue spirulina to support performance and recovery. Its high nutrient content improves stamina during physical activity, while its amino acid profile aids in muscle repair. Additionally, it may reduce muscle fatigue and inflammation, allowing for quicker recovery times.
With its impressive range of essential nutrients, blue spirulina enhances overall wellness. It provides vital protein, vitamins, and minerals that support various bodily functions, from immune health to energy production. Regular incorporation into your diet may help you feel more energized and balanced.
In conclusion, blue spirulina presents a remarkable array of benefits, solidifying its status as a true superfood for enhancing overall health. From boosting energy and mental clarity to supporting heart health and aiding in detoxification, blue spirulina offers a natural solution for numerous health concerns. Its rich nutrient profile not only promotes wellness but also contributes to improved physical and mental performance.
However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially for those with pre-existing conditions. By doing so, you can ensure that blue spirulina is a safe and beneficial addition to your health regimen.
By embracing the numerous benefits of blue spirulina, you can take significant steps toward achieving better health and vitality!
Research:
(1)https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Fig-1-Effects-of-spirulina-on-immune-system-Spirulina-enhance-rate-of-production-of_fig1_7517455
(2)https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8212345/
(3)https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15857205/
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Ingredients:
1 1/2 cups raw cashews, soaked for 4 hours, or in the refrigerator overnight
3 1/2 cups filtered water
1 vanilla bean, insides scraped out
1 teaspoon Blue Majik powder
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
3 Medjool dates
Directions:
1. Once cashews have soaked for at least 4 hours, or overnight in the refrigerator, drain and rinse well.
2. Blend all ingredients in high-speed blender for 1-2 minutes until well blended. Store in refrigerator in airtight bottle or mason jar. Mylk will keep for 3-4 days.
Makes about 3 1/2 cups
Check out other beautiful creations by Alison Griśe Wu (food, prop, wardrobe stylist and blogger) at WuHaus.com
*website not associated with E3Live
Ingredients:
2 cups ground almonds*
2 tablespoons date paste**
3 medium ripe peaches (or apple or nectarines)
(set aside a few thin slices of these for garnish)
1/2 tsp Blue Majik
How to prepare:
1. Put 2 of the peaches in either a food processor or blender to puree.
2. Dice 1 peach into 1⁄4" cubes.
3. Combine all ingredients in big bowl. You can put into a cylinder mold of desired shape and sprinkle almond and cinnamon on top.
4. Garnish top with peach slices. Makes 4 servings.
*how to: ground almonds
2 quarts or more unpasteurized organic raw almonds
1. Soak almonds overnight in filtered water.
2. Drain and put on dehydrator trays for 24-36 hours until dry.
3. Store in airtight container and use as needed for recipes.
4. Skip the soaking and dehydrating if you don't have a dehydrator.
**how to: date paste
25 Medjool dates
1. Pit dates and soak for 1⁄2 hour.
2. Drain and put in food processor.
3. Blend until smooth with no chunks (may need to add water if too thick).
4. Store in fridge.
Ingredients:
1 heaped teaspoon E3Live Blue Majik powder
1 cup almond & brazil nut milk
*2 frozen bananas, sliced ** 1 vanilla bean (or 1 tablespoon vanilla extract)4 dates, pitted
1 tablespoon coconut oil
Pinch sea salt
How to prepare:
Blend all ingredients together and in a high speed blender and serve.
*To make almond & brazil nut milk place a 1/3 cup mix of almonds and brazil nuts into a high speed blender with 1 cup of water and blend. Strain through a nut milk bag or strainer.
**For frozen bananas - peel them and place in a ziplock bag overnight.
Recipe by Rowena Jayne, Leading International Yoga InstructorRaw Food Chef, Naturopath, NutritionistSpeaker, Writer, Model, www.rowenajayne.com*
*website not associated with E3Live Canada
Ingredients:
1 frozen banana
1 1/2 cup pineapple
1/2 mango (optional)
2 limes (peeled)
1 serving Blue Majik (1/2 tsp)
dash of cayenne
pinch of Celtic sea salt
1 cup ice1/2 cup water
Blend and Enjoy!
Ingredients:
1 1/4 cups almond milk pulp, strained (OR 1 cup ground almonds mixed with enough almond milk to create a wet 'paste' in the food processor–less smooth in texture, but it is an adequate substitute)
3/4 cup dried, unsweetened shredded coconut
1/3 cup agave, honey or maple syrup
1 generous pinch salt
Scrapings of 1 vanilla bean, OR 1 tsp real vanilla extract
1-2 teaspoons Blue Majik (depending on desired color)
Instructions:
1. Blend all ingredients together in a food processor until they form a dough. Add a little more agave or some almond milk if the mixture is too thick.
2. Line a dehydrator sheet with Teflex and scoop the macaroons out by round tablespoons onto the sheet. Dehydrate at 115 degrees for 6 hours, or until macaroons hold together well but are still a little soft. Enjoy!
Additional topping:
To add a chocolate drizzle or to dip the bottoms of your cookies use the following recipe:
1/4 Cup Cacao Powder
3 Tbsp. Maple Syrup
2 Tbsp. Warmed Coconut Oil
Combine all ingredients and use to decorate the cookies.
Makes: 18-20 Macaroons
Ingredients:
2 frozen bananas
1/2 avocado
1 tsp Blue Majiko
Optional sweetener: 2 pitted dates
Water - as needed for smooth blending, start with 1 Tbs.
How to prepare:
Blend all ingredients until desired consistency, add more water (or ice) as needed to get an ice cream thickness.
Ingredients:
1.5 cups almonds
1 cup dates
4 bananas
1 cup fresh blueberries
1 cup shredded coconut
1 capsule Blue Majik
1 pinch vanilla powder
How to prepare:
1. In a food processor combine the almonds and dates. Process until sticky.
2. Pack this mixture into a 9 inch pie plate.
3. In a bowl combine the rest of the ingredients except the coconut. With your hand lightly mash the ingredients.
4. Add 1/2 of the shredded coco and mix with banana mash. Be careful not to over mix. It should be chunky.
5. Put the banana mixture into the pie crust and evenly spread out.
6. Top with the remaining coconut and garnish with fresh blueberries. Eat immediately.
For crust:
2 cups ground almonds
*1⁄2 cup date paste**
For filling:
6 oz fresh blueberries (or berries of your choice)
11 Fuji apples peeled
2 tablespoons date paste, (or more to taste)
2 tsps Blue Majik
Make Crust
1. Put almonds in bowl and mix with date paste using a fork.
2. After thoroughly mixed, put in a 9” pie pan (preferably one with removable bottom). Line the pan with a thin layer of crust using your hands.
Make Filling
1. Peel 11 apples. Shred 7 of the apples, using the coarse side of cheese grater. Squeeze out as much juice as possible, leaving apples as dry as possible. Set aside 1 cup of shredded apples and put remainder into mixing bowl.
2. Thinly slice 3⁄4 of an apple and cut slices into 1⁄2” squares. Put remaining 1⁄4 apple into food processor with 3 chopped apples, date paste and blueberries (except for 15-20 of smallest blueberries which you set aside). Process thoroughly then add 1 cup shredded apples you set aside and process again.
3. Put all ingredients including 15-20 smallest blueberries in mixing bowl with remaining shredded apples. Stir and fill piecrust.
4. Refrigerate for 1⁄2 hour, remove pie from pan. Sprinkle almond crumbs, then cinnamon on top of pie. Cut into 8 pieces.
*How to ground almonds:
- 2 quarts or more unpasteurized organic raw almonds
Soak almonds overnight in filtered water. Drain and put on dehydrator trays for 24-36 hours until dry. Store in airtight container and use as needed for recipes. Skip the soaking and dehydrating if you don't have a dehydrator.
**How to date paste:
- 25 Medjool dates
Pit dates and soak for 1⁄2 hour. Drain and put in food processor. Blend until smooth with no chunks (may need to add water if too thick). Store in fridge.