Spirulina

  • Vegan source of complete protein
  • Vegan source of B12
  • Provides whole foods form of minerals, vitamins, and unique phytochemicals
  • Boosts energy and vitality
  • Combats oxidative stress
  • Supports immune function

Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) is blue-green algae renowned for its remarkable nutritional profile and extensive health benefits, making it a focal point of research in the fields of nutrition, biotechnology, and sustainable agriculture. The original “superfood,” Spirulina provides a whole-foods, bioavailable alternative to a multivitamin, and has even been extensively tested and used by NASA, due to its superior nutrition and sustainability. Spirulina merges exceptional nutritional benefits with powerful therapeutic properties.

Bioavailability and Absorption

Spirulina’s cell wall is composed of polysaccharides, making its nutrients more bioavailable compared to other algae with indigestible cellulose walls. This enhances the absorption and utilization of its nutrients by the human body, outperforming synthetic multivitamins in efficacy.

Nutrient Dense

Spirulina boasts an exceptional nutrient density, offering a comprehensive range of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds. It contains:

  • Vegan Protein: Spirulina features all nine essential amino acids, making it a complete protein source. It surpasses conventional protein sources in terms of digestibility and bioavailability.
  • Vitamins: Spirulina is rich in B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, B9), vitamin K, beta-carotene (a precursor to vitamin A), and others. A single serving contains over 600% of one’s daily B12.
  • Minerals: Spirulina contains high concentrations of iron, magnesium, calcium, potassium, and trace elements such as chromium, selenium, and zinc.
  • Essential Fatty Acids: Spirulina includes gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an omega-6 fatty acid known for its anti-inflammatory properties.
  • Phytopigments: Spirulina contains chlorophyll, phycocyanin, and carotenoids, which contribute to its antioxidant capacity and health benefits.

Antioxidant and Anti-inflammatory Properties

Spirulina is a potent source of antioxidants, which neutralize free radicals and reduce oxidative stress:

  • Phycocyanin: The pigment responsible for Spirulina’s blue-green color, phycocyanin exhibits strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It scavenges free radicals, inhibits lipid peroxidation, and protects against cellular damage.
  • Chlorophyll: Chlorophyll acts as a natural detoxifier, aiding in the removal of heavy metals and other toxins from the body, while supporting liver health.
  • Beta-carotene and Zeaxanthin: Spirulina contains carotenoids that support eye health and protect against age-related macular degeneration.
  • Unique phytonutrients: Spirulina provides a unique source of CoQ10, nucleic acids, glutathione, GLA, and superoxide dismutase, which can help combat oxidative stress and support longevity.

Unique Health Boosting Benefits

  • Modulation of Immune Responses: Spirulina beneficially stimulates the production of antibodies, cytokines, and other immune cells, thereby enhancing both innate and adaptive immunity.
  • Antiviral and Antibacterial Activity: Studies have shown that Spirulina extracts can inhibit the replication of viruses , including herpes virus, cytomegalovirus, influenza virus and HIV.
  • Apoptosis Induction: Spirulina extracts can induce apoptosis (programmed cell death) in problematic cells in the body.
  • Lipid Profile Improvement: Regular consumption of Spirulina may help beneficially improve lipid profiles.
    Blood Pressure Regulation: Spirulina has been shown to increase endothelial nitric oxide synthase and provide a vasodilatory effect, helping to beneficially affect blood pressure.
  • Metabolic Health: Studies have found supplementing spirulina for 2 months can result in a reduction of blood sugar levels and glycated serum protein levels.
  • Detox: Spirulina can chelate heavy metals, helping to remove them from the body.

Sustainability and Environmental Impact

Spirulina is an eco-friendly, sustainable superfood:

  • High Yield and Low Resource Use: Spirulina produces significantly more protein per acre than beef, corn, and soybeans, while using less water to produce it.
  • Carbon Footprint: Spirulina’s cultivation has a minimal carbon footprint, with processes in place for water recycling and reduced greenhouse gas emissions.
  • Non-GMO and Biosecure Cultivation: AvalonX Spirulina is non-GMO, grown in controlled, biosecure environments in Hawaii, ensuring purity and safety.

References

  1. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1631/jzus.2005.B0171
    https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1111/j.1755-5922.2010.00200.x
  2. https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/BF00004024
  3. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J133v02n03_03
  4. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1300/J133v02n03_03
  5. https://www.ingentaconnect.com/content/ben/cpb/2005/00000006/00000005/art00002
  6. https://iubmb.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1042/BA20050142
  7. https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/13/9/3054

FDA DISCLAIMER

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

PURITY. POTENCY. TRANSPARENCY. TRUST.

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