Are You Eating Your Algae?
by Gina LaverdeAllow me to introduce you to Spirulina, most recently deemed the super-est of all super foods. Spirulina, a form of blue-green algae, boasts 10 times more beta carotene than carrots, is about 65% protein and provides us with essential fatty acids, phytonutrients, probiotics, and antioxidants. 
Millions of years ago, before we were even a tear in Mother Nature’s eye – Spirulina flourished. The nutrients contained in the spirulina plant helped our planet evolve.
Natural medicine practitioners usually agree that consuming foods that have survived the evolution of our species is the best way to achieve optimum health – and heal from serious illnesses. Consuming spirulina (algae) has been linked recovery from diseases like Cancer, ADD, and Autism. Research also shows significant progress in its effect against the AIDS virus.
A super food is a complete food. Think — something they’d eat on the Matrix. People use spirulina to enhance energy, detoxify poisons (sugar, alcohol, mercury), control weight and balance mood.
Spirulina for Dinner?
So, the question is how does it taste? I’m sure you don’t want to be making yourself an algae salad three times a day just so that you can tout gorgeous skin and enough energy to keep you awake through the night, right? Spirulina can be taken in pill form –which is the least offensive. The pills smell slightly like fish food, but do their job well. Some companies, like Body Ecology sell a fermented Spirulina beverage that your taste buds may need to work up to.
Start Feeling Better Right Away
Buy spirulina pills and powder at a health food store, and always remember to read labels. The plant has undergone intense studies for the passed 30 years, and proves safe for the little ones as well. So, don’t worry so much if they won’t eat their lima beans – push the algae, and get super healthy kids.
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Now is not the time to be silent. These issues affect us all
August 17th, 2007 at 2:22 pm
Spirulina rocks! I’ve been taking it for years. It really cleanses the body and even helps to build red blood cells! The powered form is pretty bad tasting. Some people like to mix it in smoothies or drink with apple juice to mask the taste. I actually take the crystal form which has virtually no taste at all. Thanks, Gina. This reminds me that I need to start drinking my greens again, it’s been a while :)
August 18th, 2007 at 9:58 am
Spirulina also works to take away cravings for sweets. Since starting it 6 months ago, I have more energy than I’ve had since high school. I also drink the green kombucha tea, which contains spirulina. My kid loves that stuff.
August 21st, 2007 at 12:04 am
[…] my Super Food list is the algae family, including blue-green algae spirulina and chlorella. Earning my super seal of approval means it […]
September 17th, 2007 at 9:33 am
Gina, I just read this “Researchers have suggested that supposed B12 supplements such as spirulina may in fact increase the risk of B12 deficiency disease, as the B12 analogues can compete with B12 and inhibit metabolism.” Have any thoughts? As a mostly raw vegan, I’m constantly studying vitamin B12 and trying to better understand where it can be obtained. I know that I get it via fortified soy milk — but now that I think of it, the soy milk must not be vegan. hehe… oh man…