Of the various health benefits of spirulina, weight loss is perhaps the most important and thus, has a crucial role to play in the popularity of this dietary supplement.
Spirulina is the common name for a dietary supplement meant for both, humans and animals. It is prepared from two species of cyanobacteria, i.e., Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima. One of the most popular food supplements, it can help in preventing several disorders, ranging from hair loss to certain types of cancers. However, if spirulina has become a rage today, it is largely because of its one particular benefit―weight loss.
Spirulina Benefits
Spirulina contains around 70 percent proteins, which is quite high compared to other foods that are considered high in proteins. Other than proteins, it is also rich in various vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. It is an excellent immune system booster, which helps in preventing several disorders. Its antioxidant properties are beneficial in preventing the damage caused by free radicals. It is also helpful in preventing several heart diseases, liver disorders, and skin problems.
Spirulina and Weight Loss
One of the most popular health benefits of this blue-green algae, is its ability to help a person lose weight. Its low fat content and high nutritional value make it one of the best weight loss supplements available today. The busy lifestyle we follow seldom gives us a chance to stop and have a look at the nutrition content of the food we eat. This, along with unsuitable dietary habits, like eating too much at a time, or eating foods high in sugars and saturated fats, renders various weight loss programs ineffective.
In such circumstances, spirulina is an apt dietary supplement, which helps in curbing our never-ending appetite and keeps the urge of eating unhealthy foods at bay. This, in turn, helps the person lose weight by bringing the fat levels in the body back to the normal. Owing to this property of spirulina, it is marketed as a ‘vitamin-enriched’ appetite suppressant. It is available in forms of pills as well as powder, which can be taken directly, or added to various foods.
Taking a spoonful of spirulina extract an hour before eating food, will make sure that your appetite is under control, and thus ensure that you eat only as much as required, instead of overfeeding. At the same time, it will also give you all the nutrients essential for proper body growth. Having said that, one has to keep in mind that heating spirulina depletes its nutritional content.
As it is a natural whole food, it seldom causes any harm when taken in large amounts. However, people allergic to it tend to experience various side effects, like fever, rashes, and digestion problems. If, any of these side effects are observed, one should ideally cease the use of this product and consult a doctor for further advice.
