I've recently read through David Wolfe's book called Superfoods, and I have to say, I was blown away by all the information - mostly notable, Spirulina. Below is some of the info on this amazing algae, taken directly from the book. Thanks David for the wealth of knowledge.
What exactly is Spirulina?
Spirulina belongs to an ancient class of single-celled, blue green spiral algae. At least thiry-five varieties of spirulina still exist in various lakes and waterways across the Earth.Spirulina are freshwater-growing, alkaline environment, microscopic algae that have been living on the planet since the appearance of life on Earth. Spirulina form spiraling, helical, microscopic strands that are smaller than the human eye can detect. The name “spirulina’ comes from this superfood’s spiral character. Spirulina’s green colour is derived from chlorophyll and the blue colour is derived from the exotic pigment phycocyanin.
As one of the simplest life-forms, spirulina has an extraordinarily long history of helping to sustain and develop the food chain. It is clear that ancient algae and plankton life-forms from the earth’s lakes and oceans provide the fundamental nutrient and food sources for all life. They are the basis and beginning of the food chain. Through photosynthesis algae and plankton convert sunlight into pure protein, fatty acids, carbohydrates, and nearly every other nutrient essential to life.
Why should I use it?
Spirulina contains an astounding array of nutrients, including chlorophyll, protein, vitamins, major minerals, trace minerals, essential fatty acids, nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), polysaccaharides, and a vast spectrum of antioxidants.
‘Spirulina is so rich in nutrition that it is believed by some that you could live on spirulina alone for quite some time. It has provided the primary protein requirements for millions of people in Mexico City for an estimated five thousand years!’ (David Wolfe).
Spirulina’s Super Qualities:
- Is an algae superfood that consists of 65-71% protein~ The highest concentration of protein in any food!
- Is a complete protein source. It contains all eight eight essential amino acids, and eighteen amino acids in total.
- Is rich in vitamins A (beta-carotene), B1, B2, B3, B6, E, and K
- Is an abundant natural source of chlorophyll, salts, phytonutrients, and enzymes.
- Is the best source of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an anti-inflammatory essential fatty acid necessary for a healthy nervous system.
- Contains phycocyanin, a potent health-building pigment that also gives spirulina it’s unique blue tint.
What are the benefits?
- Protein
- Balanced Brain Chemistry
- Blood Builder
- Antioxidants
- Immune System Builder
- Gamma-Linolenic Acid (GLA)
- Sulphur
- Vitamin B12
How much should I take?
Recommended Dosages (according to David Wolfe~ nutrition and vitality expert):
- Beginner or child (ages 2-9) : 3-5 grams a day
- Normal or child (ages 10-18) : 6-10 grams a day
- Therapeutic dose: 11-20 grams a day
- Super-athlete dose: as much as 30+ grams a day
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