Perhaps you are wondering what makes this blue-green alga so popular in the world of nutrition? If the question “What is spirulina?” intrigues you, this article is sure to give you the answer you are looking for.
Discover our organic spirulina tablets: the whole microalga, rich in iron and protein, and laboratory-tested.
Spirulina is extremely rich in nutrients, making it a food supplement of choice for improving overall health. From reducing tiredness to improving sports performance, its benefits seem endless.
Imagine a superfood that not only boosts your energy and immunity, but also helps to combat nutritional deficiencies. In this article, we guide you through the many aspects of this spiral alga, looking at:
- What spirulina is and its history
- How it first became famous worldwide
- The growing requirements of food-grade spirulina
- The properties of classic microalgae and of those enriched with specific nutrients
- How much of this food supplement to take
Ready to discover every facet of this spiral alga and how it can become a mainstay of your daily diet? Read on.
What is spirulina?
More commonly known as a blue-green microalga, spirulina is a prokaryotic cyanobacterium, which means it has no nucleus. This spiral alga is recognised worldwide as a superfood because of its exceptional nutritional richness. Its name comes from the Latin “spira”, meaning spiral, in reference to its spiral structure. This super alga is usually between 0.3 and 0.5 mm long and is only visible under a microscope.
Studies on spirulina have shown that it belongs to the genus Arthrospira, which includes three species:
- Arthrospira platensis
- Arthrospira maxima
- Arthrospira fusiformis
Spirulina is a health-promoting alga that grows in the fresh water of lakes and ponds. It is quite different from the seaweed you might find on the beach.
Arthrospira maxima and Arthrospira platensis are the species most widely used to make food supplements, thanks to their remarkable nutritional properties. At Algorigin, Arthrospira platensis is the species we use most often in our spirulina collection.
This spiral alga is characterised by its blue-green colour, which comes from pigments such as phycocyanin and chlorophyll. These pigments are not only responsible for its distinctive colour, but also have antioxidant properties. They are also involved in photosynthesis. Like plants, this spiral alga carries out photosynthesis, absorbing CO2 and releasing oxygen.
Where food-grade spirulina comes from
Although only recently recognised as a superfood, this microalga has an ancient history dating back more than 3.5 billion years. Spirulina and its history span cultures and eras, from the Aztecs to the people of Chad.
The Aztecs and their history with the super alga
The Aztecs were among the first to discover and use spirulina as a source of nutrition. Known to the indigenous peoples of the Americas as “Tecuitlatl”, this microalga was an integral part of their diet. They harvested the blue-green alga from the surface of Lake Texcoco using fine nets or containers. Once harvested, they dried it into cakes, which could be eaten as they were or added to other dishes. This method of preparation meant the super alga could be kept for long periods.
The high protein content of this super alga contributed to the muscle development of Aztec warriors. For the Aztecs, the spiral alga was not only a source of food, but also a trading commodity.
Spirulina, Chad’s favourite blue-green alga
On the African continent, the people of Chad also used the super alga as a source of food. The Kanembu harvested this microalga from mineral-rich waters, then dried it in the sun to make cakes. These cakes, known as “dihé”, could be kept for a long time.
The cakes were eaten as they were or used as an ingredient in various traditional recipes. They were also sold at local markets. “Dihé” has remarkable nutritional value, although it does not match that of organic spirulina tablets. Nevertheless, it provided the Kanembu with a significant nutritional contribution to support their overall health.
The scientific discovery of spirulina as a food supplement
From the 1960s onwards, scientists began to study the nutritional properties and potential benefits of the spiral alga. Jean Léonard, a Belgian botanist and explorer, played a crucial role in the discovery of spirulina and its benefits. During an expedition to Chad, he observed a unique food practice of the Kanembu: the making of “dihé”. Intrigued, Jean Léonard began to investigate what these cakes were made of. He discovered that “dihé” was in fact made of spirulina.
His analyses revealed that the super alga was exceptionally rich in protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. The nutrient density of this microalga far exceeds that of many other food sources, which attracted the interest of numerous organisations.
A few years later, Dr Clément of the French Petroleum Institute (Institut Français du Pétrole) began a series of in-depth studies on the blue-green alga. This research confirmed Jean Léonard’s observations on the nutritional richness of spirulina, highlighting its high protein content. These findings positioned the super alga as a potential way of helping to tackle malnutrition on a large scale.
Worldwide recognition of the microalga
Several initiatives have been launched to include spirulina in humanitarian nutrition programmes. International organisations such as the UN (United Nations) and the WHO (World Health Organization) have even recognised the nutritional value of this blue-green alga.
The FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization) has supported several projects to promote the cultivation of this spiral alga in developing regions, and large-scale spirulina production has been set up. The WHO has also referred to the nutritional advantages of spirulina and its effectiveness in helping to fight malnutrition. Its nutrient density makes this blue-green alga a crucial tool in the fight against malnutrition.
NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) has also carried out experiments on growing the microalga during long-duration space missions. Spirulina has also been approved as a food supplement for athletes competing in the Olympic Games. Its high protein content is essential for the athletes’ muscle development. Today, it is recognised worldwide as a superfood, prized for its nutrient density and its many health benefits.
Spirulina, a spiral alga grown in a very particular environment
Beyond its nutritional value, this microalga needs specific environmental conditions to thrive. Let’s take a closer look at how spirulina is grown and why it has such particular needs.
Why environmental conditions matter for the super alga
Although spirulina can grow in extreme environments, it is also prone to contamination. This spiral alga readily absorbs substances present in the water around it. While this absorption capacity benefits its nutritional profile, it poses significant risks if the water is contaminated. Chemical pollutants and other toxins can be absorbed by the microalga.
Chemical contamination can not only reduce the nutritional quality of spirulina, but also make it risky to consume. Strict hygiene measures and regular monitoring are therefore essential to prevent these forms of contamination.
At Algorigin, our blue-green alga is grown in a natural environment that is pure and unspoilt. We work closely with nutritionists and doctors to offer you products of exceptional quality. So you can order our spirulina from our online shop with complete confidence.
Spirulina: what are the optimal growing conditions?
To produce the highest-quality spirulina, it needs to be grown in a pure environment. The water used to grow it must be free from heavy metals, chemical pollutants and pathogenic microorganisms. The super alga thrives in alkaline environments. This means it needs water with a high pH, usually between 9 and 11. This high pH is an advantage, as it limits the presence of other microorganisms that cannot survive in these conditions. Alkaline water also helps to keep the microalgae pure by minimising contamination.
Like all other algae, spirulina relies on photosynthesis to grow. Good, regular exposure to sunlight is therefore crucial. Water temperature is a critical factor in growing spiral algae. The blue-green alga grows best in warm temperatures, usually between 35 and 37 °C.
The nutritional quality of spirulina depends heavily on the availability of nutrients in its growing medium. The more of a nutrient there is in the pond where the blue-green alga is grown, the more it enriches the spirulina.
What are the benefits of organic spirulina?
This microalga is a true nutritional goldmine, which has earned it superfood status. The various nutrients it contains help to meet a range of nutritional needs and address possible deficiencies. But what is spirulina made of? We have devoted a whole article to the subject – do take a look. Now let’s explore the benefits this spiral alga has to offer.
A microalga that is essential for muscle development
Spirulina is particularly rich in protein, which makes up around 65% of its composition. The super alga’s protein content exceeds that of meat, fish or soya. This protein is of high quality, containing all the essential amino acids the human body needs. The human body is unable to synthesise these amino acids.
Protein supports the growth of muscle mass as well as bone structure. It also contributes to cell regeneration. This high protein content makes this superfood particularly beneficial for athletes and physically active people.
Would you like to find out everything about protein to deepen your knowledge of this nutrient? Read this comprehensive article devoted to the subject.
Spirulina, the blue-green alga that helps reduce tiredness
The vitamin B12 and iron in spirulina strengthen the immune system and reduce tiredness and fatigue. Iron is a fundamental component of haemoglobin, which carries oxygen from the lungs throughout the body. When the body lacks iron, the result is anaemia, which shows up as extreme fatigue. As an excellent source of bioavailable iron, the super alga is particularly beneficial for people who are iron deficient.
Vitamin B12 is also essential for the production of red blood cells, which helps to prevent iron deficiency. This vitamin also helps to maintain a robust immune system. This nutrient is essential for vegans, as it is only found in meat.
A superfood with antioxidant properties
Phycocyanin, a pigment specific to spirulina, has antioxidant properties. It helps to neutralise free radicals in the body, thereby reducing oxidative stress. These antioxidant properties are beneficial for preventing chronic diseases and improving general health.
Curious about the characteristics of this blue pigment? Read this article to understand what phycocyanin is.
Spirulina: a food supplement that supports energy
This blue-green alga contains carbohydrates, mainly in the form of polysaccharides. This type of carbohydrate is an essential source of energy for the body. The carbohydrates in the super alga help to restore optimal muscle function after intense physical exertion.
Although the microalga contains few fats, those it does contain are of the highest quality. Fats are also an important source of energy, providing more calories per gram than carbohydrates and protein. They contain no harmful fats that could affect blood cholesterol levels.
A closer look at Algorigin’s enriched spirulina
At Algorigin, we attach great importance to meeting our customers’ nutritional needs. That is why we have developed specific food supplements to better meet their expectations. Let’s look at the specific characteristics of this enriched spirulina and the various benefits it offers.
Spirulina Iron, the answer to iron deficiency
Spirulina Iron is a genuine source of iron, which supports the production of red blood cells and improves tissue oxygenation. Its iron content is impressive: six times higher than that of classic organic spirulina. The iron in this variety of spirulina is highly absorbable by the body. According to a study on our product, its iron is absorbed as well as the iron in red meat. This means you don’t need to take a large dose of iron to reach your daily intake.
This iron-enriched super alga is recommended for vegetarians, as there is no meat in their diet. It provides sufficient iron without relying on animal products, helping to prevent iron deficiency.
Women are often prone to iron deficiency because of menstruation. Spirulina Iron is therefore indispensable for them, helping to replenish iron stores all year round.
The beauty benefits of Spirulina Zinc
Spirulina Zinc offers considerable benefits for everything to do with skin, hair and nails. Grown in a zinc-enriched medium, this variety of microalga addresses zinc deficiency and its consequences.
Zinc is essential for cell growth and regeneration. This nutrient helps to prevent certain skin problems by strengthening the skin barrier, and so helps to restore the skin’s radiance. This restorative action also extends to the nails, strengthening them and making them less likely to break.
Spirulina Zinc also plays a major role in the health of hair follicles. Zinc contributes to the maintenance of healthy hair and promotes hair growth.
Spirulina Immuno+, the most complete natural multivitamin for immunity
Spirulina Immuno+ is an enriched formula designed to strengthen the immune system through a synergy of all the nutrients recognised in recent years for their essential role in immunity. It combines the benefits of vitamins C and D3, zinc and phycocyanin to effectively strengthen the immune system.
Vitamin C is an antioxidant well known for its immunostimulant properties. It improves the production of white blood cells, which are essential for fighting infections. Vitamin D plays a crucial role in maintaining immune health. As for zinc, it is involved in the production and proper functioning of immune cells.
Add to this the antioxidant properties of phycocyanin, and you have a product that boosts the immune system. Spirulina Immuno+ is suitable for all ages, offering a natural way to strengthen immunity in children and adults.
Spirulina Elixir: athletes’ favourite food supplement
Spirulina Elixir is a 100% natural drink, specially designed to meet the needs of athletes. It is rich in essential nutrients that support sports performance and promote optimal recovery.
The iron and vitamin B12 it contains are indispensable for transporting oxygen around the body and reduce tiredness and fatigue. Spirulina Elixir also contains carbohydrates, which are an essential source of energy and support rapid recovery.
The liquid form of this 100% natural Spirulina Elixir helps the body absorb its nutrients better. By combining all these nutrients, this elixir becomes the ideal food supplement for athletes of all levels.
Recharge your batteries with Spirulina Maca
Spirulina Maca is a powerful, synergistic combination of the super alga and maca. This unique blend, made up of 50% maca, is specially formulated to provide a natural energy boost. Maca is renowned for its energising properties, helping to maintain stable energy levels and supporting the body’s vitality.
Its richness in protein, carbohydrates and iron makes this food supplement ideal for improving sports performance. This type of spirulina helps to prevent tiredness and to enhance physical performance and muscle development. Although Spirulina Maca is extremely beneficial for adults, it is not recommended for children.
What you need to know about how much blue-green algae to take
Spirulina is a powerful food supplement, so it is important to follow the dosage recommendations. The general recommendation is 6 tablets a day, at 500 mg per tablet. For organic spirulina granules or powder, a dose of 3 g a day is recommended. To get your body used to this super alga, start with a small dose and increase it gradually.
The microalga can be included in your diet in different ways, depending on your specific needs. Classic spirulina is recommended as a daily supplement all year round for general health. For more specific needs, enriched spirulina can be taken as a course lasting one or more months. To get the most out of these supplements, it is best to take them in the morning or at lunchtime, either with or between meals.
If you would like to find out more about the dosage of spirulina food supplements, this article may be of interest.
Spirulina: a valuable food supplement for your health
In this article, we have seen why food-grade spirulina is so popular all over the world. Over the years, it has proven its health benefits and earned recognition from a number of international organisations. This spiral alga does more than just meet your nutritional needs – it goes much further. Its many nutrients help to strengthen the immune system, restore energy and support muscle recovery.
If you want to address a deficiency or enjoy a particular benefit, our enriched spirulina range is here for you. Whether you want to boost your energy or make up for a lack of nutrients, we have what you need. Make this super alga part of your daily life and a central element of your diet for a healthy lifestyle.
