Registered dietitian nutritionist, Kim Rose, breaks down to superfood health benefits of spirulina, a nutrient-dense green powder you may have heard of, but don't quite understand what its purpose is.

Spirulina sounds like a fancy mocktail, but I promise you it’s even better than that. Spirulina is a great addition to your smoothie bowl, salads, desserts, and juices. Why? Because it’s nutrient-packed. Spirulina has been used in traditional medicine for years. It's a blue-green algae that is filled with antioxidants. Though more research is needed before strong claims can be made, spirulina still holds some note-worthy properties.

Contains Magnesium:

Magnesium is a very ample mineral in the human body. It’s needed for over 300 biochemical reactions. This mineral helps to maintain the normal function of nerves and muscles, and the formation of bones.

Contains Iron:

Iron-deficiency anemia is a very common type of anemia, especially in women. Without adequate iron intake, weakness, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and impaired cognitive function may occur (1). Iron is important for physical growth, neurological development, the production of hormones, and the normal functioning of cells.

Contains B Vitamins:

Spirulina contains a variety of B vitamins. One specific vitamin is vitamin B2, also known as riboflavin. Riboflavin is a light sensitive vitamin that has very necessary work to do in the body. Riboflavin is important for the growth, development, and functioning of the various cells in the body. It also helps turn the food you eat into the energy you need (2). How cool is that?

Contains Copper:

Copper is a mineral in the body. It is involved in energy production and immune system support. Specifically for immune support, copper is a key component of superoxide dismutase. Superoxide dismutase is an antioxidant protein that helps to protect the body from oxidative damage (3,4). This is especially important for protecting your DNA.

The Bottom Line:

Overall, spirulina contains a great variety of vitamins and minerals. If you’re looking to spruce up any meal, drink or treat, consider adding in a few sprinkles. And if you like it, be sure to let us know what you think.

Questions? Email us at hello@splendidspoon.com. Get started today with plant-based, ready-made meals delivered to your door.

References:

(1) https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Iron-HealthProfessional/
(2) https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Riboflavin-Consumer/
(3) https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets/Copper-HealthProfessional/
(4) https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/neuroscience/superoxide-dismutase