Arthrospira platensis, more commonly known as spirulina, is a concentrate of properties: it contains vitamins, proteins and micronutrients that are extremely important for a healthy, balanced life. That is why it is one of the most recommended plant foods. Yet there are still some false beliefs about using spirulina. Some even say it is useless.
But what is true? And what exactly are the properties of spirulina? Let's set the record straight, starting with the main myths to debunk. Read on to find out more!
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Spirulina: fad or fact? The main myths to debunk
Let's start with what is perhaps the main misunderstanding about spirulina: calling it an alga, which has become so common that spirulina is associated with a family of beneficial plant foods with very different characteristics. Let's clarify.
Algae are plants with countless health properties for the body, which can be a valuable help against a range of diseases and conditions. There are many varieties of algae, mostly marine and rich in iodine. Spirulina, on the other hand, is not a microalga but a cyanobacterium grown in iodine-free fresh water, with a blue-green colour, a spiral shape and a length of no more than half a millimetre. That is why it has qualities all of its own, distinct from those of algae, and is the subject of much scientific research because of its high concentration of vitamins and nutrients.
Yet there have always been various myths about spirulina. For example, it is thought to be:
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harmful when treating thyroid conditions, a mistaken opinion spread by associating spirulina with the algae family. Algae are indeed not recommended for thyroid disorders because of their iodine content. Spirulina, on the contrary, contains no iodine and has no particular contraindications for hyper- or hypothyroidism, as it is grown in iodine-free fresh water.
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useless as an aid to weight loss, a mistaken belief, since spirulina helps you lose weight by speeding up a slow metabolism and supporting fat burning. The important thing is to combine it with a personalised, balanced and healthy diet and an active lifestyle.
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a source of heavy metals, a possibility only in the case of uncontrolled production that is not certified organic. Spirulina Becagli, on the other hand, is certified organic and grown in protected environments, safe from potential contamination. That is why it is also useful for purifying the body after taking medication (including cancer treatment).
The positive effects of spirulina on the body
The advantages of taking spirulina are really many. The main ones include:
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it speeds up the metabolism and supports weight loss;
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it reduces blood cholesterol levels and improves blood pressure,
helping to prevent cardiovascular disease thanks to its high amounts of omega-3 and omega-6;
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it is a source of plant protein (as much as 70%);
- it provides iron, useful in case of anaemia;
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it is a source of beta-carotene, essential fatty acids, chlorophyll and phycocyanin;
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it has an anti-inflammatory action;
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it strengthens the immune system;
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it prevents premature ageing of the body by countering the formation of free radicals with its antioxidant qualities;
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it nourishes and increases muscle mass as a source of branched-chain amino acids, a real support for athletes;
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it is useful in vegetarian and vegan diets as an alternative to animal protein.
How to add spirulina to your daily life
Finally, why not take spirulina as energy bars? On our website you can buy them in hazelnut, coconut, passion fruit or assorted flavours, in packs of 3, 6 or 18 bars. Take them with you for an instant boost of strength and vitality, before a workout or as a snack during the day. They are tasty and highly digestible.
Once again, we have come to the end of our article on the world of spirulina. We hope we have helped you clear up any doubts about this precious superfood. For more details and curiosities, see our blog or contact us.
