The ancient Aztecs thrived on Spirulina from Lake Texcoco in Mexico. It has been the mainstay of many indigenous diets for centuries. Why? Well, its in incredible source of concentrated nutrients, which grows in fresh water lakes. Its 100% vegetable plankton and is 65% protein, making it the world’s highest known source of protein. Raw meat is only about 27% protein, and even soybeans are only 34% protein.
Spirulina is amazing for vegans because it contains the full quota of 8 amino-acids, which make it a “complete” protein. It’s a potent source of B-12 and provides all the minerals that you need, as well as trace minerals, and digestive enzymes.
So, why is it good for people who are trying to maintain a healthy weight? Well, when your body is improperly nourished, it will give out signals of hunger – “give me more in the hope that I might found a few of the nutrients I really need!”. Spirulina satisfies these cravings by giving the body a shot of all the nutrition it needs. Moreover, it’s absorbed rapidly, and is more of the most assimilated forms of protein. Taking spirulina will help you keep your blood sugar at normal levels. It’s an ideal “food” if you are fasting or cleansing, because you really won’t feel so hungry.
I’ve also found that Spirulina gives me a shot of energy when I most need it – so instead of reaching for a caffeinated beverage at 4 i the afternoon, I simply blend a couple of teaspoons of the green powder into a juice, and I’m lifted right back up – without the subsequent drop.
You can adjust dosage to suit your needs. It’s always a good idea to start with a little – perhaps 1tsp a day, and then gradually build up to 1tbsp a day. Some people take even more.
Make sure you buy your Spirulina from a reliable source – I like Sunburst Super Foods.
