High amounts of complete vegetable protein and the variety of B vitamins, calcium and Iron make Spirulina dietary supplements very popular among vegetarians and vegans.
While veganism and vegetarianism are generally considered as healthy diets, the less health-conscious individuals will tend to develop deficiencies in some very essential nutrients, such as iron, and are more likely to develop anemia.
A daily intake of spirulina can fill these gaps in a single dose, with an unusual amount of nutritional values. Consuming Spirulina over prolonged periods of time stores proteins as a backup in case of an unbalanced diet, and at the same time, strengthens the immune system, the digestive system, and improves the body’s ability to absorb essential substances that vegans and vegetarians are constantly looking to preserve to maintain their health.
Spirulina Vs. Meat – Which is better for your protein intake?
Traditionally, we have been taught that complete proteins, which contain all eight essential amino acids, can only be found in animal-based foods. Spirulina is one of the few plant foods that contain all eight amino acids, helping to build muscles, renew skin cells, strengthen the bones, improve metabolic processes and strengthen the immune system, among other benefits.
Vegetarians and vegans often turn to processed tofu and soy meat substitutes and other industrialized foods to get their protein. This selection can indeed provide the body with the protein it needs, but it comes with a price – in the form of various health hazards that accompany industrial food intake. Spirulina on the other hand, does not have side effects at all.
Spirulina as a source of iron for vegans and vegetarians
The high iron availability in spirulina is one of its most famous features, and one of the main reasons why it’s so popular among the vegetarian and vegan community.
Spirulina is a world champion in the quantity of iron it contains, but also in the quality; the level of possible absorption of iron as it comes with spirulina, makes it one of the most effective solutions for iron deficiency and anemia.
Iron supplements and foods rich in iron, all come with a specific absorption threshold, and usually require plenty of eating of both the iron source and vitamin C.
With Spirulina, there’s no need to add vitamin C for iron absorption as it’s already present. In addition, the amino acids also contribute to the absorption and digestion of iron, making it ideal for vegetarians who want to avoid anemia.
Spirulina as a source of essential fatty acids
Essential fatty acids play a crucial role in our health, and many vegetarians suffer from deficiencies in these materials. Unfortunately, these deficiencies are only discovered after the damage has been done.
We’ve all heard about omega-3, which lowers the amount of bad cholesterol (triglycerides) in the blood, reduces chances of heart disease and cancer, prevents and relieves arthritis, and more. This fatty acid is mainly present in fish, and a number of plants, such as walnuts and flax.
In addition to Omega-3, Spirulina also contains omega-6 fatty acid and GLA fatty acid, which strengthens the body and maintains its health.
To conclude
Spirulina is an ideal solution for long-term vegetarians and vegans, and generally everyone who prefers to avoid animal products.