The Nearly Perfect Whole Food With Protein and Healthy Phytonutrients
One of spirulina’s special traits is its protein content. It’s one of the highest, most digestible sources of “complete” protein. When compared to red meat, the protein content of which is about 27% of its total weight, spirulina’s is 50 to 70%, containing all essential amino acids. It’s also a source of carbohydrates, which make up 15 to 20% of the alga’s weight.
In addition, within spirulina’s deep, dark color lies an impressive array of phytonutrients:
- 18 different amino acids, including all essential ones
- Vitamins A, B and K
- Minerals, including calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, potassium and zinc
- Sulfolipids and antioxidant enzyme Superoxide dismutase (SOD)
- Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA), an important fatty acid
- Metallothionein compounds, metal-binding proteins
- Antioxidant chlorophyll and carotenoids
- Phycocyanin, a pigment protein complex from the phycobiliprotein family
- Spirulina is one of the highest sources for phytopigments, such as phycocyanin and beta-carotene. Of all the phytopigments found in spirulina, there’s one in particular generating much interest among scientists…
Deep Within Raw Spirulina’s Rich Blue-Green Color Lies Potent Health-Supporting Nutrients
Spirulina is especially recognized among scientists for its notable phycocyanin content, the vibrant phytopigment that gives raw spirulina its natural bluish tint.
Studies show that phycocyanin may have multiple health benefits, such as support for brain and heart health, protection against oxidative stress and promotion of a healthy immune system.
Phycocyanin is found exclusively in spirulina – and it's plentiful, making up about 16% of the plant’s total weight.
Plus, phycocyanin supports stem cell regeneration, especially in bone marrow, the spongy tissue inside some of your bones, and blood cells. It supports the creation of the red blood cells that oxygenate your body and the white blood cells that make up your cellular immune system.