Although most research has investigated spirulina’s effects on animals, studies in older adults have shown that it may improve inflammatory markers, anemia, and immune function ( 40 ).
Up to 8 grams of spirulina per day is safe
, and many people add it to their shakes or smoothies because it comes in powder form.
Who should not take spirulina?
While some studies suggest that spirulina does not affect blood clotting time, little is known about its effects on people who are already taking blood thinners ( 18 , 19 ). Thus, you should avoid spirulina if
you have a bleeding disorder or are on blood thinners
.
Is too much spirulina bad for you?
Although few adverse effects are associated with the use of spirulina, consuming spirulina may
cause headaches, allergic reactions, muscle pain, sweating
, and insomnia in some cases. People with allergies to seafood, seaweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid spirulina.
Can spirulina cause liver damage?
Spirulina has been implicated in isolated case reports in causing clinically apparent liver injury, but the role of spirulina as opposed to other herbal components or contaminants has not been shown. Liver injury due to spirulina must be
very rare
if it occurs at all.
What does spirulina do to the body?
Spirulina is rich in a range of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining a healthy immune system, like vitamins E, C, and B6. Research finds that spirulina also
boosts the production of white blood cells and antibodies
that fight viruses and bacteria in your body.
How often should you take spirulina?
A
standard daily dose of spirulina is 1–3 grams, but doses of up to 10 grams per day have been used effectively
. This tiny alga is packed with nutrients. A single tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina powder contains ( 2 ): Protein: 4 grams.
Is spirulina safe for kidneys?
If too much uric acid builds up in the body, gout or kidney stones can develop. If you are susceptible to gout attacks or kidney stones, then
spirulina may be harmful to you
. To avoid excessive uric acid, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center suggest limiting the intake of spirulina to 50 grams per day.
Can I take vitamin C with spirulina?
Tests revealed that when combined with vitamin C,
spirulina also prevented elevated levels of liver enzymes
, a signal of cell death. The levels of two liver damage enzymes, ALT and AST, were reduced in mice that had been given spirulina and vitamin C.
Which brand of spirulina is best?
| Rank PRODUCT NAME SCORE | 1 1 st Place Snap Spirulina + Chlorella By Snap 4.9 | 2 Best Value New Farmers Fresh Spirulina By New Farmers 4.9 | 3 Earthrise Spirulina By Earthrise Nutritional 4.9 | 4 Nutrex Pure Hawaiian Spirulina Powder By Nutrex Hawaii 4.7 |
|---|
Is spirulina safe for arthritis patients?
Spirulina is rich in all amino acids, including phenylalanine. If you have an autoimmune disease, such as multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, or lupus,
you should avoid spirulina
. Theoretically, it could stimulate your immune system and make your condition worse.
Is spirulina good for skin?
Spirulina may provide anti-aging and anti-inflammatory effects, thanks to the many antioxidants it contains. “Spirulina fights free radicals and, therefore,
can prevent skin damage
that can lead to wrinkles and signs of aging,” says Amy Shapiro, MS, RD, CDN, dietitian and founder of Real Nutrition.
Does spirulina thicken hair?
5. Promotes hair growth. According to Simpson, “With 70% protein, fatty acids and iron, spirulina offers a
synergy of nutrients needed to promote hair growth
.” And one of the best ways to reap the benefits of spirulina’s hair growth capabilities is by ingesting supplements formulated with the blue-green algae.
Does spirulina increase weight?
Taking spirulina may help boost a
person’s metabolism
. A higher metabolic rate may make a person feel as if they have more energy. It may also increase the number of calories they burn each day, which may aid weight loss.
Is one teaspoon of spirulina enough?
Spirulina is a nutritious supplement, but with a typical dose being 1-2 tsp it’s not going to meet all of your nutrition needs in one go. A teaspoon or two a day would help add
iron
to your diet if you follow a vegetarian or vegan diet and have an inadequate intake.
Does spirulina make you poop?
Because spirulina is rich in chlorophyll — duh, just look at it —
your poop will look like you have killed
and eaten the Jolly Green Giant.
What is the best way to take spirulina?
You can
stir a small spoonful of spirulina powder into a glass of water or juice and drink it straight
, or you can add some to a smoothie. Be warned: Just a small amount of deeply-pigmented spirulina will change the color of your drink into a deep blue-green, almost black.
