Algae & Nutrition

Alga, called a super food, provides notable nutritional benefits. Spirulina platensis, a micro-algae found floating in alkaline warm-water sources, is the most nutritious of the various forms of algae. It contains higher concentrations of nutrients than any other single herb, plant or grain known to man. Studies have shown is to be very beneficial for cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and a number of viruses.

Nutritional Benefits

Spirulina, which is readily available in capsules, tablets or powder form, contains a high level of protein. Its dried form is readily assimilated, so its high concentrations of vitamins A, B-1, B-2, B-3, B-6, and even B-12 which is scarce, will be of greater benefit. Vitamins C, D, E, K, folate, biotin, pantothenic acid, beta carotene and inositol are also present. The many minerals found in spirulina include calcium, manganese, iron, chromium, phosphorus, molybdenum, iodine, chloride, magnesium, sodium, zinc, potassium, selenium, germanium, copper, and boron.

More Nutrition

Amino acids, the building blocks of proteins and intermediates in metabolism, present in spirulina include but are not limited to phenylalanine, leucine, threonine, lysine, tryptophan, methionine, valine, alanine, glycine, arginine, histidine, proline, cystine, glutamic acid, and tyrosine.

Essential nucleic acids, GLA and RNA, are less common in other plants but very present in spirulina. And, two lipids, glycolipids and sulfolipids, are the compounds that break down fats in the digestive process and assist in lowering cholesterol.

Research

In 1998, research examined how polysaccharides -- complex carbohydrates in spirulina -- were found to be potent and selective inhibitors of HIV-1 replication in cell cultures. This research was based upon earlier tests that indicated polysaccharides could block the herpes simplex virus, among others, and could boost the immune system. In 2005, research was focused on the antioxidants phycocyanin, chlorophyll, and carotenoids contained in the algae. Researchers believe it is the anti-inflammatory effect of phycocyanin in particular that provided most of the positive test results in treating heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, and non-fatty liver disease in test animals. Tests have also been conducted on humans, especially malnourished children in various parts of the world with positive and safe results.

Studies have now shown that spirulina is worth researching for its therapeutic effects, too. Results have indicated spirulina contains modulating properties that assist the immune system and that it can correct glucose and cholesterol metabolism. How it does so remains to be determined, but scientific tests have confirmed its positive results.

Results

Researchers are hopeful that spirulina, with its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and balanced nutritive values, will continue to reveal itself to be useful in the prevention of cancer and viral diseases such as influenzas and herpes. Results determined the power of spirulina to combat immunodeficiency, HIV, bacterial infections, herpes, anemia, and poisoning. Always consult your physician before taking any new supplement.