Okay, here is a LONG overdue ‘lesson post’. So, here it is…
Spotlight on: SPIRULINA
Way to my heart? Spirulina, Chia and Kale… Teach Me, Tuesday on Chia and Kale to come:)
Recently, I posted some photos of foods I eat and I mentioned Spirulina a lot, this received a few questions and comments so today, I thought I’d share some facts and some uses for one of my favourite SUPERFOODS!
What is it? Here’s how Wikipedia defines it:
Spirulina is a cyanobacterium that can be consumed by humans and other animals. It is usually taken by humans as a nutritional supplement and is made primarily from two species of cyanobacteria: Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima.
Arthrospira is cultivated worldwide; used as a dietary supplement as well as a whole food; and is available in tablet, flake and powder form. It is also used as a feed supplement in the aquaculture, aquarium and poultryindustries.
Facts:
Phenylalanine and Tyrosine, which are present in Spirulina in large quantities are used by the brain to construct the neurotransmitter Norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is involved in the control of food intake. Recent research conducted by scientist James G. Gibbs reveals that food intake can be controlled in Rhesus monkeys with these precursor elements.Dr. Gibbs noted (Medical World News, Feb.5, 1979) that foods rich in Phenylalanine could be used in controlling hunger. Phenylalanine has also been found to be 89-100% effective in the treatment of depression. SOURCE
Effective in riding our bodies of heavy metals: Whether we like it or not, we absorb more toxic and heavy metals than we would like to think, from our deodorant to canned foods, some heavy metals are very unsuspecting. Because we are surrounded by these toxic heavy metals, Spirulina is even more beneficial because it is extremely detoxifying and aids in cleansing our bodies with its rich vitamins and minerals. SOURCE
It’s a vegan’s DREAM PROTEIN! Spirulina is a heavy-hitter when it comes to providing protein, because it serves up ~3-6 grams of protein per tablespoon (and is only 25 calories). SOURCE
Women REJOICE, because Spirulina is a killer source for vitamin Bs AND iron. Whoa. This results in extra energy and avoiding anemia. Praise! SOURCE
Uses:
Smoothies: Add a tablespoon of powdered Spirulina to your favourite smoothie recipe for a fierce colour AND even fiercer health benefits!
Morning Grains: Cook your grain of choice in the morning (I tend to use quinoa or brown rice) in about 1/2 cup of extra water so that when your grain is done, you have about 1/3 cup of extra water to absorb 1 scoop of protein powder and 1 tablespoon of Spirulina.
Puddings/Desserts: Here’s a simple recipe that is going to serve up loads of potassium from the banana; omega-3s from the chia seeds; vitamin Bs, iron, potassium AND protein from the Spirulina and an energy boost from the maple syrup.
Clean treats are the most satisfying.
Superfood, SUPERgood PUDDING PARFAIT
1 banana, peeled and sliced
2 tablespoons raw chia seeds
1/2 cup water (or almond milk)
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 tablespoon REAL maple syrup (or local honey)
1 tablespoon powdered Spirulina
dash of good almond milk (optional)
DIRECTIONS: In a blender, combine water or almond milk, half of the banana, chia seeds, Spirulina, vanilla and maple syrup. Once thoroughly combined, pour into a bowl and allow to thicken on your counter or in your refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. Be patient because the longer this pudding sits, the thicker it becomes! Once it has set, top with the rest of the sliced banana and maybe another dash of almond milk. Enjoy!
So, have you tried Spirulina? If so, what is your favourite use? If not, what recipe will you try!
Go forth and SUPERFOOD your day!
-THE CC
I am impressed! A whole tablespoon. Generally I stick to 1-1.5 tsp! Usually I put it in smoothies and chia puddings. I’ve been meaning to try this salad dressing: http://www.choosingraw.com/electric-green-spirulina-avocado-salad-dressing/
I also went to a vegetarian cooking class once where the teacher mixed in spirulina with whipped cauliflower! Couldn’t taste it and it gave it this awesome green colour.
so i have only heard of this stuff but never had it, thanks for more info on it
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Loved it!! Thanks for such an informative post!
I have read above blog on Spirulina its nice post and very beneficial to the health point of view because it is a big source of proteins and good nutrition if you want to know some other benefits of Spirulina you can visit our website.