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super food

Super

Spirulina

By Michelle Fouchi Esneault

pirulina is one of your immune system and getting used to. It can be health benefits. It’s con-
the most ancient supports your heart, liver mild or strong, depending sidered safe and effective
lifeforms on Earth and kidneys. Studies have on whether it comes from with no known side effects.
and considered one also found that it is a natural a saltwater source, which You shouldn’t take it if
Sof the greatest nu- detoxifier and appetite tends to be fishier, or from you’re allergic to iodine or
trient-rich foods. According suppressant, improves diges- freshwater. It also turns if you’re pregnant or on
to the United States Depart- tion, fights allergies, lowers anything you put it in to a blood thinners. As with
ment of Agriculture, dried cholesterol and triglyceride lovely shade of blue-green. any supplement, check
spirulina is high in protein levels, raises HDL choles- You can find spirulina with your doctor before
and has nine essential and terol and can even help bal- anywhere supplements are taking.
10 non-essential amino acids. ance the body’s pH, while sold in either tablet form
It’s also high in beta-caro- reducing inflammation. or in a powder which is Spirulina is a
tene, linoleic acid, arachidonic Other studies also easier to add to food. The
acid, vitamins B1 (thiamine), suggest that it may reduce Aztecs dried it into cakes natural detoxifier
B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), blood pressure and balance in 16th century Mexico. and appetite
iron, calcium, phosphorus, blood sugar. And if that Today you can add it to suppressant
omega-3s, chlorophyll and wasn’t enough, research juices, smoothies and
phycocyanin which is only from the International shakes or sprinkle over
found in blue-green algae. Journal of Biological Science popcorn, rice, or veggies.
Research conducted by suggests that it may even Add it to your favorite
the National Institutes of have anti-cancer properties. dessert recipes or to
Health found that spirulina So, with all of these ben- energy balls.
is good for your body and efits, why isn’t it in every- It is not recommend-
your brain. Consuming thing? Spirulina may be the ed that you cook with
between one and 10 grams perfect food, but the taste, it as exposing it to high
boosts energy, improves which is bitter, takes a little temperatures removes its