hawaiian spirulina
Hawaiian Spirulina is an ingredient in our Hawaiian Superfood blend, below you will find fascinating information and key benefits about this ingredient.
Hawaiian spirulina is said to be the most naturally complete nutrient in the world. Its most active compound phycocyanin is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory with anti-cancer powers. It also promotes good cholesterol, healthy blood pressure, lower blood sugar and haemoglobin production. Spirulina is also an excellent natural stamina booster.
Found in the cool blue waters of Hawaii, spirulina is a blue green alga that is very easily digestible. It is packed full of vitamins, minerals and protein and is considered to be the most naturally complete nutrient. The Hawaiian variety of spirulina has almost double the levels of nutrients that other types have, due to the perfect growing conditions that Hawaii enjoys all year round.
The main active antioxidant in spirulina is phycocyanin, which also happens to be an anti-inflammatory too. This powerful plant pigment has also shown to be able to block tumour growth and kill cancer cells.
Spirulina can also lower bad cholesterol and simultaneously increase good cholesterol, making it important for good heart health. It can also reduce blood pressure and increase nitric oxide in the body, which allows your blood vessels to relax, allowing for healthier blood flow.
There is evidence that spirulina can increase the haemoglobin content in red blood cells and therefore is effective for treating conditions like anaemia. It’s rich in Vitamins C, E and B6 which are linked to a strong immune system. It can also lower blood sugar levels and has even outperformed various diabetes drugs in doing so.
Spirulina was used by the Aztecs as an endurance booster due to its high protein content. It is also linked to muscle strength, so it’s a popular natural enhancement for athletic performance.
Spirulina is considered safe for most people to use but it can interact with medications for diabetes, immunosuppressants and blood thinners.
Key benefits of hawaiian spirulina include:
- Blood Sugar Control: Hawaiian spirulina can have positive effects on blood sugar control. It can help improve insulin sensitivity, lower fasting blood sugar levels, and reduce post-meal blood sugar spikes.
- Brain Health: Hawaiian Spirulina has been shown to increase mental alertness, improve cognition and decrease mental fatigue. It can also have powerful neuroprotective properties.
- Cardiovascular Health: Hawaiian spirulina can have positive effects on cardiovascular health. It can help reduce blood pressure, improve lipid profile by lowering triglycerides and LDL cholesterol, and increase HDL cholesterol levels.
- Detoxification Support: Hawaiian spirulina has detoxifying properties, it can help bind to heavy metals in the body, aiding their removal and reducing their potential negative effects.
- Exercise Performance and Recovery: Hawaiian spirulina has benefits in exercise performance and recovery. It can help increase endurance and reduce muscle fatigue by enhancing energy production and reducing oxidative stress. Hawaiian Spirulina can also help with chronic fatigue.
- Immune System Support: Hawaiian spirulina has immune-boosting properties. It can enhance the production of antibodies and increase the activity of natural killer cells, which are important components of the immune system.
Avoid combining Hawaiian spirulina with the following medications:
- Immunosuppressants: Hawaiian spirulina may stimulate the immune system, which could potentially counteract the effects of immunosuppressant medications used to prevent organ rejection in transplant recipients or to treat autoimmune diseases. Concurrent use of Hawaiian spirulina with immunosuppressants could reduce the effectiveness of these medications. Consult with a healthcare provider before combining Hawaiian spirulina with immunosuppressants.
- Blood Thinners (Anticoagulants): Hawaiian spirulina contains vitamin K, which plays a role in blood clotting. Anticoagulant medications, such as warfarin (Coumadin), work by thinning the blood to prevent blood clots. Consuming large amounts of vitamin K-rich foods, including Hawaiian spirulina, can potentially interfere with the effectiveness of anticoagulants. While moderation in dietary vitamin K intake is generally recommended, it's essential to maintain consistent vitamin K levels and consult with a healthcare provider to ensure proper medication management.
- Immunostimulants: Hawaiian spirulina may possess immunostimulating properties, potentially enhancing the immune response. Concurrent use of Hawaiian spirulina with other immunostimulant medications or supplements could potentially lead to excessive immune stimulation or overactivity. Use caution and consult with a healthcare provider before combining Hawaiian spirulina with other immunostimulants.
- Thyroid Medications: Hawaiian spirulina contains iodine, which could potentially interfere with the effectiveness of thyroid medications, especially in individuals with thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism. Concurrent use of Hawaiian spirulina with thyroid medications may require monitoring of thyroid function and medication adjustments under the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Diabetic medication: Use caution with Hawaiian spirulina if taking antidiabetic drugs. Its effects on blood sugar levels may interact with medication, potentially causing hypoglycemia. Consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice and monitor blood sugar closely. Communicate openly about all supplements for safe and effective diabetes management.
Individuals with the following allergens or medical conditions should use caution or avoid Hawaiian spirulina:
- Iodine Sensitivity or Allergy: Hawaiian spirulina contains iodine, which could trigger allergic reactions or exacerbate symptoms in individuals with iodine sensitivity or allergies. Symptoms may include skin rash, itching, swelling, or respiratory issues such as difficulty breathing. Use Hawaiian spirulina cautiously if you have known iodine sensitivity or allergies.
- Autoimmune Disorders: Spirulina supplements, including Hawaiian spirulina, may stimulate the immune system, potentially exacerbating symptoms or flares in individuals with autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus. Immune stimulation could lead to increased inflammation or autoimmune activity. Consult with a healthcare provider before using Hawaiian spirulina if you have an autoimmune disorder.
- Phenylketonuria (PKU): Some Hawaiian spirulina products may contain added ingredients or sweeteners, such as aspartame, which contains phenylalanine. Individuals with phenylketonuria (PKU), a rare genetic disorder that affects the body's ability to metabolize phenylalanine, should avoid consuming Hawaiian spirulina products containing aspartame or other sources of phenylalanine.
- Thyroid Disorders: Hawaiian spirulina contains iodine, which plays a crucial role in thyroid function. Individuals with thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism should use Hawaiian spirulina cautiously, as excessive iodine intake could potentially worsen thyroid function or interfere with thyroid medications. Consult with a healthcare provider before using Hawaiian spirulina if you have a thyroid disorder.
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1 cup of dried spirulina
Vitamins present |
Value |
Minerals present |
Value |
---|---|---|---|
Vitamin B1/Thiamine |
2.7mg - 178% |
Copper |
6.8mg - 342% |
Vitamin B2/Riboflavin |
4.1mg - 242% |
Iron |
31.9mg - 177% |
Vitamin B3/Niacin |
14.4mg - 72% |
Magnesium |
218mg - 55% |
Vitamin C |
5.6mg - 28% |
Manganese |
2.1mg - 106% |
Vitamin B9/Folate/Folic acid |
105mg - 26% |
Potassium |
1527mg - 44% |
Vitamin K |
27.6mg - 36% |
Sodium |
1174mg - 49% |