Spirulina is an herbal supplement that contains a variety of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that are good for the body's health. However, before you consume it, there are several things that need to be considered so that this herbal product does not cause health problems.
Spirulina is a bluish-green algae plant that lives in seawater and fresh water. Once harvested, this plant will be processed in such a way that it becomes a tablet, powder, or drink, which you can consume.
Spirulina is often referred to as superfood, because it has complete nutrition and high protein content. Thanks to its nutritional content, spirulina is believed to provide various benefits, such as boosting the immune system, maintaining heart health, and relieving allergy symptoms.
Spirulina Nutrition Content
In 1 tablespoon of powdered spirulina (7 grams), there are 20 calories and a variety of the following nutrients:
- 4 grams of protein
- 0.5 grams of fat
- 1.5 grams of carbohydrates
- 8.5 milligrams of calcium
- 14 milligrams of magnesium
- 95 milligrams of potassium
- 8 milligrams of phosphorus
- 0.7 milligrams of vitamin C
- 2 milligrams of iron
Spirulina also contains vitamin A, vitamin B, vitamin K, choline, folate, and antioxidants. Not only that, spirulina is also known to contain substances that have antibacterial, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, and anticancer properties.
Health Benefits of Spirulina
Here are some of the health benefits of spirulina:
1. Strengthen the immune system
Spirulina contains several types of antioxidants as well as minerals and vitamins, such as magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin B6, vitamin C, and vitamin E, which play an important role in maintaining the immune system.
Some research shows that spirulina can support the production and performance of white blood cells and help the production of antibodies, so the body will be stronger against viruses, bacteria, fungi, and parasites that cause infection.
2. Maintain heart health
Spirulina is also known to lower triglyceride and bad cholesterol (LDL) levels, while increasing good cholesterol (HDL) in the body.
This effect makes spirulina good for consumption to maintain heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart disease.
3. Relieves allergy symptoms
A study says that spirulina can relieve allergy symptoms, such as itchy skin and hives, sneezing, itchy nose, and nasal congestion. This is because spirulina has anti-inflammatory properties.
However, the effectiveness of spirulina as a drug to relieve allergy symptoms still needs to be researched. In addition, some allergy sufferers may also have an allergy to spirulina, so it is not suitable to use this supplement.
4. Reducing the risk of cancer
Sprulina contains high levels of antioxidants. The content is known to prevent damage to body cells due to exposure to free radicals and prevent the growth of cancer cells.
5. Lowering high blood pressure
High blood pressure or hypertension is the cause of various serious diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney disease.
A study shows that spirulina can increase the production of nitric oxide which makes blood vessels widen and more relaxed, so that blood pressure becomes more stable.
In addition, spirulina is also known to contain potassium, which is a mineral that plays an important role in lowering and keeping blood pressure stable.
6. Maintain digestive tract health
Spirulina is considered good for maintaining digestive tract health. A study states that spirulina has a prebiotic effect that can support the performance and number of good bacteria in the digestive tract.
Spirulina is also known to improve the work of the digestive system, so that various nutrients from food and drinks can be better absorbed by the body.
There are many other health benefits of spirulina, including keeping blood sugar levels stable, preventing anemia, increasing energy and stamina, and maintaining an ideal body weight.
However, the various benefits of spirulina still need to be investigated further regarding its effectiveness and safety for the body.
Things to Pay Attention to Before Consuming Spirulina
Before consuming spirulina, you need to check whether the product is registered with BPOM RI or not. This is because spirulina products that are not registered with BPOM may not be safe for consumption because they are contaminated with harmful organisms or toxins.
Contaminated spirulina products can cause liver damage, stomach pain, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, faster heart beat, or even death.
In addition, there are no studies showing that spirulina is safe for pregnant and lactating women. Therefore, this group is not recommended to consume spirulina. Patients with certain conditions, such as phenylketonuria and impaired liver function, are also not allowed to take spirulina.
To ensure its safety, you should consult with your doctor first so that the doctor can determine if your condition allows you to take spirulina. Your doctor can also suggest a dosage that suits your needs.