About Blue Green Algae
Blue green Algae or cyanobacteria (name derived from its colour), are simple, fresh water aquatic plants living in marine waters, rivers, lakes, and ponds. There are two varieties of blue green algae that are Spirulina and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae. Blue-green algae are healthy as we shall in this article.
Health Benefit 1: Nutritionally Rich
The blue green algae Spirulina contain various nutrients such as proteins,carbohydrates,amino acids ,low calories and little or no fat. It also contains minerals such as calcium,potassium,iron,zinc and phosphorous. Vitamins in blue green algae include Vitamins A,B,C and E.
Health Benefit 1: Immune Booster
Due to their high anti-viral properties and powerful anti-oxidants, blue green algae combat HIV by inactivating it plus other viral infections. In particular is calcium-spirulan which is obtained from Spirulina. This extract has been shown to hinder growth of cells such as in herpes, hence strengthens immune system. Additionally ,it aids in cell regeneration as well as repair of damaged tissues.
Health Benefit 2: Lowers Cholesterol
Blue green algae Spirulina improves blood lipids and reduces Type 2 diabetes as well keeping blood pressure at normal levels. A study conducted showed that blue green algae(in particular Aphanizomenon flos-aquae variety) contains all essential amino acids, minerals, vitamins and neuropeptides.The polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) in them are well absorbed into bodies of animals, hence assisting in reducing cholesterol.
Health Benefit 3:Anti- Inflammation
One of the Blue green blue algae,Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) , helps fights inflammation owing to a compound known as phycocyanin,a natural COX-2 inhibitor .This compound relieves pain caused by inflammation without any side effects. It is rich in plant based omega-3 fatty acid Alpha Linolenic acid(ALA) which hinder development of inflammatory prostaglandins.
Health Benefit 4: Weight Loss & PMS
The Gamma linolenic acid(GLA) in Spirulina is an essential fatty acid which not only promotes joints and heart health, but also aid in weight loss. Spirulina assists in keeping blood sugars at acceptable levels and lowers craving for food .It has also been found to be effective in relieving you from Premenstrual Syndrome.
Health Benefit 5: Digestive Health
Blue-green algae is useful in the maintaining a healthy flora in the gut as well as promoting digestion.Furthermore,it helps stem proliferation of Candida Albicans in the gut.
Health Benefit 6: Treatment of Mouth Sores
Studies have shown that a gram of Spirulina blue green algae lowers risk of developing oral leukoplakia in tobacco users in a period of one year.
Health Benefit 7: Detoxification
Chlorella another form of blue green algae detoxifies the body of heavy metals like mercury thanks to its cell membrane. Spirulina on the other hand hastens detoxification in particular to people who are fasting .It’s phytonutrients can aid in cleansing the body.
Health Benefit 8: Anemia Treatment
During strenuous exercise by athletes,iron deficit may result. To restore the iron, Spirulina rids them of the symptoms of the deficiency-muscle fatigue and exhaustion. Spirulina enhances the physical ability of the body during such exercises.
Health Benefit 9: Energy Powerhouse
Owing to its various nutrients such as carbohydrates, proteins and amino acids ,blue green algae supplies the body with incredible amount of energy.
