What is Algae?
Blue Algae is an edible form of algae, which is rich in micronutrients important to our health. Microalgae are tiny photosynthetic plants containing chlorophyll, the substance that gives them their intense green color. You can find algae in both freshwater and saltwater environments. They take the energy from the sun and convert it to sugars and proteins essential to the body. You can add algae to food or mix it into your beverages. A few common forms you might have heard of before including spirulina and chlorella, both of which come in both a powder and a pill form.
The Health Benefits of Algae
Just one tablespoon of spirulina or chlorella (blue-green algae) provides four grams of protein, along with a healthy dose of calcium, iron, magnesium, and potassium. You’ll also get B vitamins and vitamin A (beta-carotene), along with essential fats. According to research, it’s also difficult to reach a toxic level of spirulina, making it a good choice to add to foods or take as a supplement on its own if in pill form. All of these vitamins and minerals help energize your body and allow it to run more efficiently, protecting your immune system from diseases. Research also shows that seaweed is high in powerful antioxidants that can provide some anti-cancer benefits. Furthermore, science suggests the high fiber content in a dose of seaweed could help control weight, and more specifically help fight obesity by decreasing fat digestion. Overall, microalgae contains carotenoids (a type of antioxidant) called zeaxanthin and lutein, both of which support eye health and brain health, along with disease prevention.
How to Incorporate Algae into Your Diet
Squeeze Dried has perfectly and carefully formulated Mermaid Lemonade; a blend of Spirulina, Prebiotics, Lemon & Blue Green Algae that is delicious, refreshing, and healthy beverage that you can take on-the-go. Blue-green algae can taste surprisingly great when mixed in with smoothies and beverages, boosting the minerals and protein, yet it’s important to purchase from a great supplier and brand to make sure their farming practices are providing the best quality.
References
Gutiérrez-Salmeán G, Fabila-Castillo L, Chamorro-Cevallos G. (2015, July.) Nutritional and Toxicological Aspects of Spirulina (Arthrospira).
Koníčková, R., Vaňková, K., Vaníková, J., Váňová, K., Muchová, L., Subhanová, I., . . . Vítek, L. (2014). Anti-cancer effects of blue-green alga Spirulina platensis, a natural source of bilirubin-like tetrapyrrole compounds. Retrieved from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/24552870
Newcastle University. (2010, March.) Seaweed to tackle rising tide of obesity.
What is Algae and Should I Be Eating It? (2019, June 11). Retrieved from https://nutritionstripped.com/algae-nutrition-health-benefits/