Proteins are the fundamental building blocks of life, and as such, they can offer key insight into how spirulina works to help improve overall health and wellness. Spirulina, a blue-green microalgae that's mostly found in freshwater lakes, ponds, and rivers, also happens to be one of the richest sources of protein in the world. In fact, spirulina offers more protein gram per gram than beef, chicken, fish, and even soybeans.
Spirulina and Protein
Proteins are made up of complex chains of amino acids, which are critical for forming and repairing muscle and bone. But, amino acids also serve several other essential functions within the body. For example, the amino acids found in proteins are responsible for managing insulin levels in the body, maintaining the immune system, transporting minerals throughout the body, and more.
Of the 22 amino acids found in proteins, eight of them are essential to healthy body functions, yet the human body cannot produce them. Therefore, these eight amino acids can only be obtained through one's diet. The remaining amino acids are considered non-essential, because the body is already naturally producing them. However, in order for the body to be able process the non-essential amino acids, the essential amino acids, plus a sufficient amount of nitrogen, are required for the synthesizing to occur.
Unlike several other types of proteins, spirulina is considered a "complete protein," as it is a quality source of all eight essential amino acids. Plus, the protein in spirulina is between 85 and 95% digestible, making it one of the most powerful and potent forms of protein available. And since the cellular walls found in spirulina contain no cellulose, its amino acids are absorbed by the body nearly instantly.
Spirulina and How It Cleans the Blood
Spirulina is rich in chlorophyll, and this makes it an incredibly effective blood cleansing agent. In fact, this microalgae contains more than ten times the amount of chlorophyll per volume than what's found in traditional garden-variety vegetables. The chlorophyll in spirulina helps build red blood cells in the body, while also offering the body a more easily absorbable form of magnesium. This combination of chlorophyll and magnesium helps to remove toxins from the bloodstream while oxygenating the blood.
The blue coloring in spirulina is actually formed by phycocyanin and allophycocyanin, as well as other anthocyanins. These phytonutrients have been shown to help increase the number of white blood cells in the body. In addition, the polysaccharides found in spirulina have also been shown to increase immunity, provide anti-viral activity, help in the removal of radiation and heavy metals from the body, and improve the functional productivity of bone marrow, the thymus, and spleen cells.
Spirulina – The World's Most Powerful Superfood
Hawaiian Spirulina Pacifica® is the only Spirulina grown with deep sea water providing essential trace minerals and elements. Our patented Ocean Chill Drying™ technology ensures maximum nutrient levels.
Grown in a Biosecure Zone, our Spirulina is free of pesticides, herbicides, gluten and lactose. Non-GMO Project Verified. Ideal for vegans.
Another amazing nutrient in Spirulina is polysaccharides; this nutrient is called 'Spirulina's Miracle Nutrient'.