What makes this supplement a worldwide blockbuster
Spirulina is one of the world’s most popular food supplements. Loaded with some of the healthiest nutrients and antioxidants, spirulina is kind of a superfood for the brain and the body. The antioxidants in spirulina also have anti-inflammatory effects, apart from its well documented pain-relieving and brain-protective properties, making it truly a wonderful health supplement.
Who discovered spirulina?
Although not popularly recognised as a health supplement until the late 1900s, spirulina had been a food source for the Aztecs and other Mesoamerican civilizations even before the 16th century. It was later found at Lake Texcoco by some French researchers, who didn’t realise its use by the Aztecs as a source of nutrition.
During the 1960s and the 70s, botanists finally recognised its potential when none other than NASA proposed it for space-growth for use by astronauts, and large-scale production of spirulina was popularised.
What makes it a superfood?
Spirulina contains a potent plant-based protein called phycocyanin, which is a powerful source of nutrients. A single tablespoon of dried spirulina powder contains around 4 grams of protein, Vitamins B1, B2 & B3, copper, and iron, apart from significant amounts of magnesium, potassium, manganese, and every other necessary nutrient that humans need.
But the real kick is that the same amount contains only 20 calories and around 1.7 grams of carbs.
So weight for weight, this makes spirulina kind of the single most nutritious food in the world. It is also an excellent source of all the essential amino acids that the body needs.