Superfood News: Algae
By Seth Braun
Filed Under Green Living |
Superfood
A superfood is anything that delivers the power of several foods in one package. They contain significantly higher levels of vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances than regular healthy food. Superfoods are much better at filling in the gaps in our diet than vitamin supplements. Whether it is for aiding detoxification, replenishing reserves, improving immune system, increasing sex drive, or generating energy, superfoods make up for the lack of quality, nutrients, and vitality in the commercial food supply.
Algae
Spirulina, chlorella, and blue green algae are three superfood freshwater algae often assumed to be the same thing, but they are actually quite different. Despite spurious claims to the contrary, these are nutrient dense foods that are worth considering in your nutrition practice. Algae contain an abundance of chlorophyll and minerals, they top the list for protein abundance per ounce and are an incredible source of easy-to-absorb vitamins. They also contain potent anti-viral, fungal and bacterial agents.Algae has been consumed by traditional cultures for thousands of years, which is always a good indicator of what to eat today.
Benefits
- Easy to Digest
While sea vegetables are house cleaners for the body, algae work to repair and rebuild. For those who are healing from chronic illness or deficiency, algae is a great tonic food.
- Longevity
Algae are effective for maintaining youthful, fluid qualities in the body.
- Liver Renewal
Paul Pitchford relates an incredible story of a professional musician who was diagnosed with liver failure and had no hope for survival. He followed a long term diet that included generous amounts of vegetable juices and spirulina as well as adjunct holistic treatments and recovered to great health
- Nutrient Dense
Spirulina is a great source of protein, caratenoids (mostly beta-carotene, which becomes Vitamin A in your body), chlorophyll, and GLA. Chlorella and wild blue green are the best overall sources of chlorophyll. Wild blue green algae is the mineral rich choice, as it grows in places such as the notorious Klamath Lake, which is fed by volcanic run off. Each is about 60% protein, with spirulina a bit higher and chlorella a bit lower.
- Detoxification
Wild blue green algae is particularly well regarded for supporting the body in removing toxins. - Blood Sugar Control
Predigested protein and carbohydrates in small amounts from algae assist in homeostasis by providing enduring energy production.
Be Aware
People who have a low percentage of body fat, experience hyperactive tendencies or sensitive to the cold should be careful taking algae and lean towards chlorella, as wild blue green and spirulina can aggravate these conditions . Any one who works hard, expends a lot of physical energy, eats rich foods and has a strong or robust constitution can benefit from all three algae. Be aware of overpriced products and always purchase from a highly respected source for purity.
How To Eat It
Algae is generally mixed in a liquid or taken as a capsule, not cooked. This is because heat breaks down the vitamins and proteins present in raw, pickled or dried algae.
Where to Get It
If traveling to Oregon to dredge up some of this green goodness is a bit of a stretch…you can buy spirulina and chlorella from Earthrise, and blue green algae from Sunfood Nutrition. Your local health food store may also carry all of these in capsule form.
Looking for more information?
- Go see Seth’s previous superfood post on seaweed (marine algae)
- Check out the University of Ireland’s seaweed site; it gives an overview on all forms of algae
Seth Braun is a board certified Health Counselor (AADP) and a graduate of the Institute For Integrative Nutrition in Manhattan. Braun is also an author, speaker, and certified 4 Gateways coach. He specializes in helping busy professionals nationwide in crafting health and nutrition routines that work. He currently lives in Boulder, Colorado.
Posted on August 7, 2008 |
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