It’s All About the Algae!
By Betsy Bartlett, nutraMetrix Research Assistant
We all know fruits and vegetables — especially those beautiful green leafy vegetables — are good for us, but there are some greens that reign supreme. Fortunately, many of our all-time favorites are packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and some even have protein. Not to mention, greens are very versatile and easy to incorporate into meals, snacks, and smoothies.
So, what are the best options? Are mustard greens, spinach, collard greens, Swiss chard, or dandelion greens the most beneficial, convenient, healthy, and delicious options? Sometimes the biggest bang for your buck comes from algae, yes Algae!
Spirulina
Surprise! This nutritious algae isn’t just for pretty, turquoise smoothies (while those are a good way to eat it). Spirulina is, in fact, one of the most impressive greens you can add to your diet. Studies show that spirulina can help support regular immune functions.
Including spirulina in your diet can help support healthy cholesterol levels. Spirulina can also support the activation of antioxidant enzymes and the breakdown of important lipids. It can also increase the activity of cells that protect against oxidative damage. Now that you believe in the power of algae, let us move on to spirulina’s freshwater friend.
Chlorella
This freshwater algae is packed with incredible amounts of nutrients including protein, vitamins, minerals, and a large number of antioxidant polysaccharides. These are known to support many internal processes including the immune system and inflammation modulation.
With these benefits, it’s no surprise that chlorella can help promote detoxification in the body. Studies even show that a daily dose of chlorella can help maintain a healthy blood pressure and serum cholesterol levels to enhance immune functions.
A single ounce of chlorella contains:
Protein—16g
Vitamin A—287% RDA
Vitamin B2—71% RDA
Vitamin B3—33% RDA
Iron—202% RDA
Magnesium—22% >RDA
Zinc—133% RDA
And there is one more algae that deserves a shout out, this one is not green, but does stand out in the crowd for it’s amazing antioxidant potential.
Astaxanthin
There is a huge amount of interest in a little superhero known as Astaxanthin. Astaxanthin is not just known as the “king of carotenoids” or a powerful antioxidant, but when derived from algae it is also considered enviro-friendly because its sourcing supports a healthy and sustainable ecosystem.
Astaxanthin is known to be a powerful antioxidant with an affinity for tissues that have heightened metabolic demand such as cardiac muscle, capillary beds within organs and skeletal muscles requiring sufficient oxygen and energy for their proper performance.
Astaxanthin’s reputation as a powerful antioxidant is due to its unique structure that includes long chains which allows it to stabilize the cell membrane and provide antioxidant protection in all layers, whereas other antioxidants are more limited.
Maybe it’s time to get some algae in your diet!
* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.