Spirulina Flashcards
(19 cards)
What type of organism is Spirulina?
A spiral-shaped, blue-green algae (technically a Cyanobacteria) that grows in fresh and salt water.
Why is Spirulina easy to digest?
It lacks cellulose cell walls.
What are the two key species of Spirulina?
Arthrospira platensis and Arthrospira maxima.
What are the energetic properties of Spirulina?
Supports Yin deficiency and excess heat.
What is the protein content of Spirulina?
60–70% highly bioavailable complete protein.
What important nutrients does Spirulina contain?
B1, B2, B3, A, K, beta-carotene, copper, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phycocyanin, chlorophyll.
Is Spirulina a reliable source of vitamin B12 for vegans?
No, it contains non-absorbable B12 analogues.
What detox benefit does Spirulina offer?
Binds heavy metals like cadmium, arsenic, lead, and mercury through ion-exchange.
What are the immune and anti-inflammatory effects of Spirulina?
Increases natural killer cell activity and has anti-viral properties.
Inhibits NF-κB pathway and phycocyanin in spirulina has COX-2 inhibiting effects.
What are the cardiovascular benefits of Spirulina?
Lowers blood pressure (via nitric oxide), improves cholesterol profile (↓ LDL/VLDL/triglycerides, ↑ HDL).
What is phycocyanin and why is it important in Spirulina?
A pigment-protein with anti-cancer properties. It has anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, immune boosting and anti- proliferation effects.
How much Spirulina is typically recommended per day?
1–8 grams (1 tablespoon ≈ 7 g).
What are potential side effects of Spirulina?
Bloating, flatulence, diarrhoea, oedema — mostly at higher doses.
What safety precaution should be taken with Spirulina?
Use only reputable, clean sources to avoid contamination (e.g., with Microcystis aeruginosa).
How does spirulina help exercise performance?
Increases endurance, whilst the high amino acid content supports muscle hypertrophy.
What are the anti-allergic effects of spirulina?
Particularly in relation to allergic rhinitis where the inhibition of histamine from mast cells has been observed.
How is spirulina anti- hypertensive?
Reduces elevated blood pressure from raised nitric oxide production (vasodilation), high antioxidant protection and lower inflammation.
How does spirulina positively affect blood lipids?
Lowers LDL and VLDL cholesterol and triglycerides, whilst increasing HDL.
What are the benefits and clinical applications of spirulina?
- Detoxification.
- Immune-enhancing.
- Anti-inflammatory.
- Anti-cancer.
- Exercise performance.
- Anti- allergic effects.
- Anti-hypertensive.
- Positive effect on blood lipids.
