Actif USA

In many cultures around the globe, green superfoods are widely consumed, enjoyed as a spread over tortillas or dried and served with grains and vegetables. Yet with their somewhat elaborate, scientific-sounding names and vibrant green coloring, these superfoods can be alienating and confusing to American consumers. With so many products available on the market today, which do you choose? Let’s take a look at two of the most heavily researched products on the market today – chlorella and spirulina.

1. Spirulina

Spirulina is an organism (algae) that grows in both fresh and salt water.

Just like plants, they can produce energy out of sunlight, via the process called photosynthesis.

Spirulina was consumed by the Aztecs back in the day, but became popular again when NASA proposed that it could be grown in space and used by astronauts.

A standard daily dose of spirulina is 1-3 grams, but doses of up to 10 grams per day have been used effectively.

This is what spirulina looks like, in both tablet and powder form:

It is actually quite amazing how nutritious it is:.

• Rich in Complete Protein and B12– Spirulina is 70% full protein by biomass. Often used as a supplement for those who consume poor quality or limited amounts of meat in their diet, Spirulina is also one of the few plant sources of essential vitamin B12. Because of it’s highly digestible composition, the hardy protein found in this algae is high in net protein utilization and efficiency ratio, allowing all of the amino acids to be readily utilized without cooking.

• High in Fatty Gamma Linolenic Acid (GLA)- Few foods contain this substance, an omega-6 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in brain function, reproductive health, growth and development, skin and hair growth, bone health, and metabolism regulation. Spirulina contains the full form of this fatty acid allowing for efficient absorption and potent effect.

• Unique Phytochemical Phycocyanin- This outstanding phytochemical is the pigment which gives spirulina it’s blue hue. It is unique to spirulina and studies have found it to be useful to brain function, heart health, immune system strengthening, and in supporting bone marrow function for building blood cells. In mammals phycocyanin is converted into phycocyanorubin, an antioxidant that is helpful in protecting the tissues from free radicals.

2. Chlorella

 

Which One Wins?

As you can see, the above superfoods share many similar characteristics, while also bolstering a distinctive set of precious health benefits. The truth is that spirulina and chlorella have altogether different nutrient profiles and many practitioners recommend that they be taken in tandem to achieve an ultimate supportive balance. It is also important to verify that products are harvested from a pure source, and not mass-produced in contaminated waters. By taking the initiative to incorporate such beautifully simple, pure and robust foods into our diets, we also take the responsibility for health into our own hands, unlocking our potential for long term wellness and happiness.