Spirulina is a type of algae grown in warm climates, then harvested and dried for use as a dietary supplement. It's called a "superfood" because it is packed with vitamins and minerals, but it may also contain heavy metals if grown in contaminated soil or water. Early research has shown that spirulina may benefit people with depression, high cholesterol, diabetes, digestion issues and a number of other conditions, but no definitive conclusion has been reached as of time of publication. It may also be a viable protein supplement -- amino acids make up 62 percent of spirulina -- but the University of Maryland Medical Center reports that you would have to take very high doses to meet your protein needs.
Step 1
Pour 8 oz. of cold filtered water into a blender. Spirulina has a very strong seaweed taste, and using less water will make a smaller drink that you can consume more quickly. It will also make it a thicker drink, so you must decide between the lesser of two evils yourself. Adding a bit more water will make a thinner, smoother drink, but you'll have to drink more of it to get the full dose.
Step 2
Add 1 tsp. of spirulina powder or flakes to the blender. Be sure to use a dry teaspoon -- any moisture that collects in the powder will form clumps. Screw the lid back on the container tightly to keep the powder from absorbing moisture from the air.
Step 3
Blend on medium speed until the mixture is homogenous. Adding ice and re-blending until the ice is crushed makes a much colder beverage, which can help dull the taste.
Step 4
Drink the entire beverage to get the full spirulina dose.
Step 5
Experiment with adding different flavorings to your spirulina shake to make it more palatable. You can add salt and tomato juice for a savory drink, or try orange juice for a sweeter drink.
Step 6
Sprinkle spirulina over food to add flavoring and help you consume a larger daily dose. The seaweed flavor goes well with Asian foods -- try mixing a pinch of spirulina powder with sesame oil and drizzling it over sushi, or add it to pesto for a fusion flavor.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have spirulina pills instead of powder or flakes, follow the dosing directions on the container.
- Do not use spirulina if you are pregnant, breast-feeding or phenylketonuric, or you have an autoimmune disease.
Things You'll Need
- Cold filtered water
- Spirulina powder or flakes
- Spoon
- Blender
- Additional ingredients as needed
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