Health

As I mentioned in Part 4 of my Real Health diet series, I believe that taking green foods, particularly spirulina and chlorella, is very important to your health. This article will focus on why you should take spirulina.

You may have heard these words, spirulina and chlorella before. What are they though? Basically they are green microalgae. They are microscopic plants which grow in fresh water. They are green due to chlorophyll.

It is sold in the form of powder. I take mine in veggie capsules. I believe the best comes from the Nutrex company in Hawaii. They sell under their own label. They also provide the spirulina that I buy from Jenny Lee Naturals, which sells a 580 capsule bottle.

First, spirulina. Spirulina is an amazing food. And it is a food, not a medicine. First, it contains protein. A lot of protein. Three times more protein by weight than beef. And this protein is more digestible than beef, so you take in more of it into your system. And spirulina contains complete protein, all eight essential amino acids.

It contains vitamin B12, and since it is a plant, of course it is a vegetarian source. B12 deficiency has been linked to low bone mineral density, forgetfulness and cognitive problems. You can ask your doctor for a test that will tell you if you are low in B12.

It contains the second highest amount of GLA available. GLA is gamma linolenic acid. This is what is called an essential fatty acid. The most GLA available is found in human breast milk. GLA is essential to babies in that it helps the brain grow and build new connections. It also enhances the immune system. If like me, you were mostly bottle-fed, you probably never got enough GLA. Spirulina is a great source of it, so you can start making up for that lack right now.

Spirulina also contains chlorophyll and beta-carotene, both powerful antioxidants. They help support your immune system and may have anti-cancer effects. Spirulina is also an excellent source of calcium. And of course, they are full of phytochemicals.

Think of spirulina as food, not pills or medicine. I take 30 400mg capsules a day. If you are ill, you can take up to twice that till your conditions improve. For bodybuilders, the protein in it makes it perfect to take some after a workout.

Give spirulina a try. I believe you will find that it will improve your health and support your efforts at healthy living.

Barbara Pfieffer writes about gaining real health on her blog, Real Health.