Spirulina is a freshwater algae, also known as "blue-green algae" or cyanobacteria.

It is still a new food supplement (although it is gaining popularity in some countries) and is very popular in Central America, Asia and Africa.

It is in these regions that the crop is most developed, mainly because of the favourable climate.

Main nutrients

• 50 to 70% protein (for building muscle)
• Calcium (for bone and tooth formation, growth, nerve transmission, blood clotting, muscle contraction)
• Phosphorus (for memory and growth)
• Other nutrients in small amounts
  • Magnesium
  • Vitamins A, B1, B2, B3, B5, B6, B8, B9, B12, E
  • Beta-carotene
  • Omega 6
  • Chlorophyll

Importance for nutrition and health

Spirulina compensates for iron, vitamin A and B12 deficiencies.

Its absorption helps to improve shape and muscle tone.

It contains twice as much vitamin B12 as foods of animal origin, such as liver.

Just 3 grams provides the daily requirement.

For those on a low calorie diet, spirulina is an interesting alternative.

In addition, the protein it contains is easily digestible, which helps to regulate the amount of sugar in the blood and suppresses hunger.

Its high content of the amino acid phenylalanine reduces appetite.

Spirulina consumed while fasting produces a feeling of satiety as it coats the stomach walls.

Spirulina is a food supplement of choice during pregnancy. The high protein content is a great advantage.

The immune system is also one of the benefits of spirulina, particularly in the treatment of allergic rhinitis and acne. 

If you exercise, spirulina should be part of your diet. It contains gamma-linolenic acid, which stimulates protein synthesis. It also contains fibre, which helps to regenerate muscles and tendons.

Spirulina also helps with haemoglobin production.

Recent studies show that Spirulina gives the athlete energy and reduces stress and fatigue.

Spirulina is also an antioxidant that helps slow down the cellular aging mechanism.

Good nutritional advice

There are no known contraindications to spirulina. The only side effects we know of are possible allergic reactions and nausea.

However, we recommend that you consult a naturopath before starting any diet.

People who don't eat many vegetables or don't like them can take spirulina because of its high nutrient content.

In fact, just 5 grams of the algae provides significant amounts of beta-carotene, iron and other nutrients.

Because spirulina is a food, it is best to take the powder rather than tablets or capsules. This makes it easy to mix with other ingredients.

Spirulina can also be consumed in dried form, which has both nutritional and medicinal benefits.

Tips & Tricks

If you are bothered by the slightly fishy smell of spirulina or its green colour, we recommend that you buy tablets or capsules (note that these can be up to 3 times more expensive than the powdered form).

Sometimes, some industrial drying techniques reduce the nutritional value of spirulina.

It is therefore better to consider the method of production and appreciate the more traditional techniques.