Regarded as one of the most complete foods in the world, spirulina has been the subject of numerous scientific studies. If this blue alga, often called a superfood, attracts so much interest, it is because it is packed with nutrients that give it a whole range of qualities.
Through numerous scientific studies, spirulina is gradually revealing its secrets. Research has shed light on the effects of this microalga on general well-being and on various aspects of health, such as digestion and immunity.
At Algorigin, we specialise in food supplements made from health-promoting algae. In this article, we explain, among other things:
- What is spirulina?
- Arthrospira platensis and the scientific studies on its benefits for immunity
- Spirulina: what does science reveal about its anti-inflammatory action?
- The benefits of this microalga for hair, skin and nails in the light of scientific studies
- Spirulina against tiredness: what do scientific studies reveal?
- Spirulina: what studies are there on its benefits for digestion?
- Spirulina and muscle development: what does science show?
Interested in this microalga to maintain your vitality? Let’s explore the hidden treasures of this superfood together.
What is spirulina?
Spirulina is a cyanobacterium whose scientific name is Arthrospira platensis. Capable of photosynthesis, this microorganism of the genus Arthrospira is part of the phytoplankton in its natural habitat. It grows in alkaline waters in warm regions. Under the microscope, it usually appears as a blue-green spiral filament. This colour comes from the two pigments it contains: phycocyanin, an antioxidant that gives it a bluish tint, and chlorophyll, which gives it its green colour.
An edible bacterium, Arthrospira platensis is not strictly speaking an alga, even though it was originally classified as one. It is made up of cells without a nucleus, which makes it a prokaryote, unlike algae. Algae are eukaryotes, as their cells have a nucleus.
Why do blue algae attract scientific interest?
Blue algae have fascinated Western researchers ever since they learnt that people in faraway lands were eating them. This superfood can boast a history on our planet stretching back centuries, perhaps even millennia. What is the history of spirulina? According to various accounts, the microalga has been eaten for centuries, both by the Aztecs and by the Kanembu people of Lake Chad. Harvested from the marshes, this green mass was processed and eaten by local populations for its rich nutritional value.
How could anyone remain indifferent to a food that, in Kanem (Chad) for example, helps to make up for nutritional deficiencies in times of famine? Science had, and still has, every reason to find out more about spirulina. Over time, various scientific studies have revealed its extraordinary composition and the many benefits associated with eating it. Science continues to investigate this health-promoting alga, as its therapeutic prospects look promising.
Discover more than 3,000 scientific studies published on spirulina since 1967:
What are the benefits of Arthrospira platensis?
Spirulina is packed with macro- and micronutrients of great value for well-being. Looking at the composition of organic spirulina, we find that it is rich in bioavailable protein and carbohydrates. It is an exceptional source of several vitamins of the B group. To date, it is also the only known non-animal source of vitamin B12. It also provides iron, antioxidants (phycocyanin, calcium spirulan), magnesium and more.
Thanks to its rich composition, spirulina is a food that benefits vitality and health. Among the benefits of spirulina, the following stand out:
- Support for the immune system, thanks to its high vitamin B12 content;
- Maintenance of muscle mass, thanks to its high protein content;
- Reduction of tiredness and fatigue, thanks to its high iron content;
- Recovery after exercise, mainly due to its anti-inflammatory action.
Today, the properties of spirulina are put to use in a variety of food supplements. At Algorigin, our knowledge of the benefits of this blue alga has enabled us to develop a whole range of nutritional supplements. Our products are formulated with high-quality Swiss spirulina. They help you look after your immunity and your mental health and, above all, stay in great shape at any age. For your general well-being, we offer several spirulina tablet formulas.
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Arthrospira platensis and the scientific studies on its benefits for immunity thanks to vitamin B12
The immune system is the body’s natural line of defence. It protects us against our own internal malfunctions and against external threats (pathogens such as microbes and viruses). It relies on certain biological mechanisms and on an army of “little soldiers”: the immune cells. These are mainly white blood cells (leucocytes), lymphocytes (B and T) and antibodies.
Our health depends on how well our immune system works. When immunity is weakened, the body becomes more vulnerable to infections and illness. How well our natural defences work depends on several factors, including physical activity, sleep quality, good stress management and, above all, a varied diet providing the nutrients essential for our organs to function properly.
As for the benefits of spirulina for immunity, scientific research shows that the microalga is rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. These include beta-carotene and calcium spirulan, a polysaccharide whose effects are particularly beneficial for immunity. The spiral alga therefore helps to stimulate and strengthen the immune system. Discover Spirulina Immuno+ from Algorigin, specially formulated to support your natural defences.
Here are a number of scientific studies to find out more about the benefits of spirulina for the immune system:
Spirulina: what does science reveal about its anti-inflammatory action?
Intense physical exertion is usually followed by aches and muscle soreness. This is an inflammatory reaction of the muscles as they try to clear the lactic acid built up during exercise. Some muscle cells are also damaged, and repairing them can take several days. Taking spirulina-based food supplements makes recovery after exercise easier. How? Thanks to the antioxidants found in this spiral alga.
Research on Arthrospira platensis has highlighted, in particular, the anti-inflammatory action of phycocyanin, spirulina’s blue pigment. To help you get back on top form, we offer Spirulina Elixir, your perfect ally for recovery after exercise.
To better understand the anti-inflammatory action of phycocyanin and spirulina’s other active substances, here are a number of scientific studies to read:
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The benefits of this microalga for hair, skin and nails in the light of scientific studies
Some nutritional deficiencies show up as poor-condition hair, nails or skin. A lack of biotin in particular affects the health of hair and nails. The same goes for riboflavin. In addition, a shortage of antioxidants or protein, the main building blocks of collagen, shows in a loss of skin elasticity.
Having problems with your hair, skin or nails? Spirulina is concentrated in nutrients that may help. It contains B vitamins, in particular biotin and riboflavin, as well as provitamin A, zinc, antioxidants and plant protein.
Riboflavin (vitamin B2), for example, is involved in the synthesis of keratin, the main component of hair and nails. The gamma-linolenic acid found in Arthrospira platensis also contributes to skin elasticity. This makes the microalga the perfect ally for beautiful hair, lovely skin and healthy nails. Our Spirulina Zinc gives you everything you need to improve the health and beauty of your hair, nails and skin.
Here are a number of scientific studies to help you better understand how spirulina acts on hair, skin and nails:
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Spirulina+and+hair
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/?term=Spirulina+and+skin+
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Spirulina against tiredness: what do scientific studies reveal?
Who hasn’t been through a spell of feeling truly run-down? Overwork, burnout, stress, a poor diet or infections can all drain us of our energy. The worst thing would be to let this state take hold, because chronic fatigue can open the door to depression or make you more vulnerable to illness.
To combat tiredness, blue-green algae, an excellent source of readily absorbed iron, are a natural solution that is ideal for everyone. You can boost your energy levels with our Energy Pack, which helps you get back on top form and stay there for the long term. Spirulina’s macronutrients, working in synergy with a complex of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, help you naturally revitalise your energy.
Discover a number of scientific studies here to find out more about spirulina and its action against tiredness:
Spirulina and muscle development: what does science show?
Protein is the basic building block of our body, and of muscle tissue in particular. It is essential to eat enough protein to maintain your muscles and keep your body well toned.
Protein requirements are particularly high for athletes, because these macronutrients strengthen the muscles and help them recover after exertion (training and competition). Taken as a food supplement, spirulina helps to build muscle mass. The explanation is simple: according to numerous studies, this super alga contains up to 70% readily absorbed protein, excellent for muscle development.
Likewise, supplementing with blue algae gives vegetarians and vegans access to protein that is bioavailable. To find out more about the effects of spirulina on muscle mass, here are some research findings on the subject:
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How can you enjoy the benefits of spirulina?
In short, spirulina is clearly a superfood, as it is rich in high-quality nutrients and trace elements. Various in vivo and in vitro studies show that Arthrospira platensis is a treasure trove for revitalising the body.
The best way to enjoy the benefits of spirulina is to take regular courses. Ask your GP for a blood test to identify your actual nutritional needs. Then choose the organic spirulina food supplement that is right for you.
To support you in your everyday quest for well-being, Algorigin offers, among other things:
- Spirulina tablets;
- Spirulina granules;
- Spirulina Elixir;
- Spirulina Iron;
- ...
To stay in shape all year round, choose our food supplements. They are natural products made from organic spirulina harvested in clean environments.
