Smoothy Slim
Smoothy Slim
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Spirulina is a type of cyanobacteria — often referred to as blue-green algae — that is highly nutritious. Studies show that it may improve cholesterol and triglyceride levels, suppress oxidation, reduce blood pressure, and lower fasting blood sugar levels.
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A potent powdered supplement, based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.
Learn More »Spirulina is a type of algae associated with many health benefits, thanks to its nutrient profile and powerful antioxidant properties. Spirulina is among the world’s most popular supplements. It is loaded with various nutrients and antioxidants that may benefit your body and brain. Here are 10 evidence-based health benefits of spirulina. 1. Rich in many nutrients Spirulina is an organism that grows in both fresh and salt water ( 1 ). It is a type of cyanobacteria, which is a family of single-celled microbes that are often referred to as blue-green algae ( 2 ). Just like plants, cyanobacteria can produce energy from sunlight via a process called photosynthesis. Spirulina was consumed by the ancient Aztecs but became popular again when NASA proposed that it could be grown in space for use by astronauts ( 3 , 4 ). A standard daily dose of spirulina is 1–3 grams (g), but doses of up to 10 g per day have been used effectively ( 1 ). This tiny alga is packed with nutrients. A single tablespoon (tbsp.), or 7 g, of dried spirulina powder contains ( 5 ): Protein: 4 g
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Learn More »5. May have anti-cancer properties While more studies are needed, some evidence suggests that spirulina has anti-cancer properties. Research in animals indicates that it can reduce cancer occurrence and tumor size ( 19 , 20 ). Spirulina’s effects on oral cancer — or cancer of the mouth — have been particularly well studied. In fact, several studies have found that spirulina supplementation can be useful for the management of oral submucous fibrosis (OSMF), a type of precancerous lesion in the mouth ( 21 , 22). In another 2013 study of 40 individuals with OSMF lesions, 1 g of spirulina per day led to greater improvement in OSMF symptoms than pentoxifylline, a medication used to promote blood flow ( 23 ). summary Spirulina may have anti-cancer properties and appears especially effective against certain types of precancerous lesions of the mouth. However, more research is needed. 6. May reduce blood pressure High blood pressure is a main driver of many serious conditions, including heart attack, stroke, and chronic kidney disease ( 24 ). One review of five studies found that taking 1-8 g of spirulina per day could significantly reduce both systolic and diastolic blood pressure, especially for people with high blood pressure levels ( 25 ). This reduction is thought to be driven by an increased production of nitric oxide, a signaling molecule that helps your blood vessels relax and dilate ( 26 ). summary Spirulina may increase production of nitric oxide and reduce blood pressure levels, a major risk factor for many chronic conditions. 7. Improves symptoms of allergic rhinitis Allergic rhinitis is characterized by inflammation in your nasal passageways. It is triggered by environmental allergens, such as pollen, animal hair, or even wheat dust ( 27 , 28 ). Spirulina is a popular alternative treatment for symptoms of allergic rhinitis, and there is evidence that it can be effective (29). For instance, one study found that spirulina was more effective than cetirizine, an antihistamine used to treat allergies, for improving symptoms of allergic rhinitis and decreasing inflammation ( 30 ). However, more research is needed. summary Spirulina supplements may be effective against allergic rhinitis, but more research is needed. 8. Could be effective against anemia Anemia is a condition characterized by a reduction in hemoglobin or red blood cells in your blood ( 31 ). There are many possible causes of anemia, included nutrient deficiencies, genetic disorders, and chronic inflammation, among others ( 31 ). Anemia is fairly common in older adults, leading to prolonged feelings of weakness and fatigue ( 32 ). In one 2011 study in 40 older people with a history of anemia, spirulina supplements increased the hemoglobin content of red blood cells and improved immune function ( 33 ). Some other studies in animals have also found that spirulina could improve hemoglobin levels and ease symptoms of anemia ( 34 , 35 , 36 ). However, more high-quality, recent studies in humans are still needed. summary One study suggests that spirulina can reduce anemia in older adults. Some animal studies have also found that spirulina could be beneficial for anemia, but more research is needed. 9. May improve muscle strength and endurance Exercise-induced oxidative damage is a major contributor to muscle fatigue ( 37 ). Certain plant foods have antioxidant properties that can help athletes and people who are physically active individuals minimize this damage. Spirulina appears beneficial, as some studies pointed to improved muscle strength and endurance ( 38 ). In one study, spirulina supplementation was able to improve oxygen uptake during an arm cycling exercise, with researchers noting that it could act as ergogenic aid to enhance athletic performance ( 39 ). summary Spirulina may provide multiple exercise benefits, including enhanced endurance and increased muscle strength.
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Contains a potent powdered supplement blended right into water or your favored beverage to be appreciated as a scrumptious morning smoothy.
Learn More »10. Could support blood sugar control Several animal studies suggest that spirulina could help lower blood sugar levels ( 40 , 41 ). There is also some evidence that spirulina can support healthy blood sugar levels in humans. According to one review of eight studies, spirulina supplementation in doses ranging from 0.8-8 g daily could significantly reduce fasting blood sugar levels in people with type 2 diabetes ( 42 ). However, there was no significant effect on blood sugar levels after eating or levels of hemoglobin A1c, which is used to measure long-term blood sugar control ( 42 ). Therefore, more research is needed. summary Some evidence suggests that spirulina may benefit people with type 2 diabetes by significantly reducing fasting blood sugar levels. Still, more studies are needed.
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A scrumptious morning smoothy based on the diets of among the healthiest, longest-living hamlet in the world.
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