If you to examine spirulina in its raw form, you might wonder why this slimy blue-green looking algae, which looks like seaweed, is a superfood.
Originally found in freshwater lakes, most commercial spirulina is now grown in controlled pools or tanks to prevent contamination. It is usually available in tablets, powder form or blended into nutrition mixes.
One of the most nutrient-dense food in the word, spirulina is infused with loads of vitamins including A, B, E, and K, as well as mineral salts, magnesium, iron and calcium.
In fact, it is a complete source of protein, containing eight essential amino acids and eighteen amino acids in all. This is not just a health claim. It was even declared to be the best food for the future in the 1974 United Nations World Food Conference
BENEFITS
Some of spirulina’s health benefits include:
- Heavy metal detoxification
- Boosts the immune system and protects against cancer cells.
- Reduces cholesterol
- Lowers blood pressure and risk of stroke
- Energy booster
- Improves sinus problems
- Protects the brain and memory
HOW TO CONSUME
Hard core fans will tell you to mix a teaspoon of spirulina into a glass of water and drink. But seriously, it’s not for everyone!
Most people stir a spoonful of spirulina powder into drinks or smoothie. The unusual taste however, is to reckon with – unless you don’t mind a slightly earthy, sometimes fishy, vegetable tinge in the smell and flavour.
This is easy to handle. Just add sweet fruits such as mango, bananas and pineapple or juice. That shields the taste. In fact, there are 101 ways to enjoy the best of spirulina but we will just give you the easy ones.
10 YUMMILICIOUS WAYS TO ENJOY SPIRULINA
- Juices
Just mix spirulina with sweet tasting fruits in your juices (yes, that’s the easiest way!). Shake it with sparkling water and lemon juice if you want to create a sweet, zesty lemonade. Top with mint leaves.
- Smoothies
Blend it into a creamy smoothie together with milk, yoghurt, lemon and other fruits to curb food cravings. Another great tasting drink is to blend it with bananas, cucumber, spinach, kale, strawberries and blueberries!
- Spirulina Almond Latte
Enhance your healthy latte with a dose of magic! Sprinkle half a teaspoon. Add a natural sweetener such as stevia. Perfect perk-me-up! Note of caution though, spirulina does not go well with coffee or alcoholic drinks as the delicate nutrients and enzymes may be destroyed by the drinks.
- Spirulina Cashew Cinnamon Cream
Create your own creamy, tasty dip. Soak cashew nuts overnight and blend with half cup water, cinnamon, and rice malt syrup. Tastes great over fruit dipped with celery sticks or dolloped over salads and fruits.
- Spirulina Hummus
Sprinkle into your hummus mix (combination of cooked, mashed chickpeas, sesame seed paste, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and garlic) and blend. Serve with flatbreads, grilled chicken, and vegetables. Tasty and healthy too!
- Spirulina Vegan Ice Cream
Add half a teaspoon of spirulina powder into your homemade pistachio, chocolate or mint ice cream. It’s an amazing nutrient boost that tastes good too!
- Spirulina Pesto
Add three tablespoons of water to a teaspoon of spirulina powder, mix together with your pesto paste. This is a supercharged way to enhance your meal with B vitamins, iron, and protein!
- We’re getting creative and loving it! Spirulina Omelette
Sprinkle half a teaspoon into your omelet mix together with onions, garlic, and broccoli. Healthy and tasty!
- Spirulina Chocolate Truffles
If you make your own chocolate truffles, try adding half a teaspoon into the blend. Experience the energy boost in bite sizes!
- Chocolate Crusted Spirulina Lemon Pie
Create a healthy pie. Half a teaspoon of spirulina mixed into your chocolate lemon pie totally screams delicious healthy goodness!
Try not to mix spirulina onto heated food. If you are adding it to pureed soups or popcorn, make sure they cool down first before sprinkling over. Want more recipes? You can check out this vegan spirulina goodness
MORE! SPIRULINA FACT MASK
To benefit from spirulina externally, try doing a honey spirulina mask. Mix them together and leave on for 20 minutes, then rinse off with warm water.
This natural face mask will pamper your skin with rich vitamins and minerals together with honey’s anti-bacterial properties. Its anti-inflammatory properties help to prevent acne, reduce swelling and prevent breakouts by healing skin and preventing bacterial growth.
SUPERFOOD, THE WAY INTO THE FUTURE
Look out for Superfood Asia 2019. Where the world’s best superfood resources converge into one location. Share and network. Increase your market reach.