Having access to a superfood that can meet all of your nutritional requirements is truly valuable. In the realm of healthy eating, spirulina powder exists as a precious find that serves as a source of vital nutrients with health-boosting properties. Throughout the centuries, across diverse cultures, spirulina has had versatile applications.
So, let's take a ride to the powerhouse of superfoods and understand how this natural wonder impacts health.
What is Spirulina Powder?
Spirulina is a type of algae that grows in fresh or salt water and is commonly used as a dietary supplement due to its rich nutrient content and antioxidant properties. It is available in powder or tablet form and is used to boost nutrient and antioxidant levels in the body, potentially offering various health benefits. The dried powder of spirulina contains nutrients such as protein, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, copper, and iron. It is also a good source of magnesium, potassium, and manganese.
Nutritional Profile of Spirulina Powder
Spirulina is packed with nutrients, including protein, vitamin B, and essential minerals. It may offer several health benefits, such as inhibiting inflammation, reducing blood pressure, lowering 'bad' cholesterol, increasing 'good' cholesterol, protecting against cancer, and helping with symptoms of hay fever. One tablespoon serving of dried spirulina contains:
- 20 Calories
- 0g Protein
- 5g Fats
- 5g Carbohydrates
- 3g Fiber.
As spirulina offers various benefits, it is popular among health-conscious individuals. According to Kings Research's recent study, the global spirulina powder market is expected to generate a revenue of $812.21 million by 2030.
Decoding Blue Spirulina vs. Green Spirulina
The difference between blue and green spirulina lies in their composition, color, and potential benefits.
Green Spirulina Powder
- Green spirulina is a whole food and is naturally dark green.
- It is rich in nutrients and is typically harvested from ponds or controlled environments, then dried and ground into the familiar blue-green powder.
- Green spirulina is recognized as a superfood due to its superior health benefits.
- It acts as a potent defender against free radicals and protects cells in the heart, nervous system, liver, and kidneys.
- It is also a source of protein and is rich in vitamins, minerals, carotenoids, and antioxidants.
Blue Spirulina Powder
- Blue spirulina is an extract derived from blue-colored algae from spirulina, specifically the pigment phycocyanin.
- This gives it a vibrant cyan-blue color, and it is milder in taste as compared to green spirulina.
- Blue spirulina is known as a powerful antioxidant due to its high phycocyanin properties.
- Additionally, it is considered easier to consume.
Key Benefits of Spirulina Powder
Spirulina is known for its numerous health benefits and rich nutrient content. Below are some of the key benefits:
- Nutrient-rich: Spirulina is packed with nutrients, including protein, vitamin B, and essential minerals such as thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, copper, and iron. It also contains small amounts of magnesium, potassium, and manganese, making it a highly nutritious dietary supplement.
- Antioxidant Properties: Spirulina is a source of a plant-based protein called phycocyanin. This protein has pain relief, anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and brain-protective properties, thereby offering several health benefits.
- Heart Health: Spirulina has been associated with potential benefits for heart health, including lowering blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
- Inhibiting Inflammation: Research suggests that spirulina may help inhibit inflammation, which is beneficial for overall health and well-being.
- Weight Loss: There is evidence that spirulina may help with weight loss, making it a potential supplement for individuals looking to manage their weight.
- Oral Health: Spirulina may also have benefits for oral health, potentially contributing to improved oral hygiene.
- Protection Against Diseases: Spirulina's antioxidant properties and nutrient content may help protect against various diseases, making it a valuable addition to a healthy diet.
Application of Spirulina Powder in Various Fields
Spirulina powder is utilized in various industries due to its rich nutrient content and potential health benefits. Below are some applications of spirulina in different industries:
- Nutraceuticals
Spirulina is used in the nutraceutical industry due to its high nutritional value, including protein, vitamins, and various essential minerals. It is commonly consumed as a dietary supplement in the form of capsules, tablets, or powder.
- Food and Beverages
Powdered spirulina is incorporated into food and beverage products to enhance their nutritional profiles. It can be added to soups, salads, smoothies, and energy balls, or mixed into fruit or vegetable juices, providing a natural source of nutrients and antioxidants. In this field, FUL, an innovative health food company, offers Sparkling Spirulina Drinks that are free from artificial colorings and sugars. This product is designed to help customers include spirulina in their daily diets in an enjoyable and environmentally friendly way.
- Cosmetics
The phycocyanins present in spirulina, which are pigments that produce a blue color and have antioxidant effects, have been used as a dye in the cosmetics industry. Spirulina may be utilized in various cosmetic products for its potential antioxidant and colorant properties.
Various companies, like PuroBIO Cosmetics, offer cosmetic products using spirulina. Its KELLY powder mask contains spirulina and platensis powder, designed for peel-off masks for dry skin.
- Animal Feed
In the aquaculture, aquarium, and poultry industries, spirulina is used as a feed supplement due to its nutrient-rich composition, which provides essential nutrients to animals and supports their overall health.
One company that offers spirulina-based animal feed is Spirulina Viva. Its nutrient-rich animal meals are popular. The company aims to provide clean, high-quality, and fresh spirulina products.
- Pharmacy
Phycocyanins, the pigments found in spirulina, have been used in the pharmacy industry. These pigments have antioxidant effects and may have potential applications in pharmaceutical products.
To cite an example, NB Laboratories manufactures organic spirulina powder, tablets, and capsules, offering high-quality organic spirulina products for consumers.
Quick Recap
Spirulina powder stands as a testament to nature's remarkable bounty. It is considered a natural superfood that promotes holistic health and is versatile in various ways. Spirulina is enriched with nutrients such as protein, potassium, copper, manganese, and iron. It serves various end-users with its potential applications in dietary supplements, culinary ingredients, or skincare. Its availability in vibrant colors symbolizes its several healthy properties and benefits. As a timeless symbol of health and harmony, powdered spirulina is proof of its potential to enhance overall well-being.
