12 Proven Health Benefits of Spirulina (#7 is Nothing Short of Outrageous!)

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2. Controls Blood Sugar

Numerous studies involving animals have shown that spirulina lowers blood sugar levels. In fact, some studies have shown that this alga is even more effective than some common diabetes drugs such as Metformin. One small study involving humans, published in the Journal of Medicinal Food, found that 25 subjects who had type 2 diabetes had significantly lower blood sugar levels after taking just 2 grams of spirulina over the 60-day study period. Of course, you should never consume any type of supplement, nor should you stop taking your medication, until you speak to your doctor first.

3. Improves Endurance and Strength

Has your fitness trainer mentioned spirulina to you? There is a good reason why. You might have also read that numerous athletes take spirulina to minimize damage caused by exercise-induced oxidative damage. Although produce such as berries and other vegetables can do this, spirulina is easy to add to your diet and works even better. One study, published in the Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise journal found that supplementation with spirulina not only caused a significant increase in performance but increased muscle strength. This study was small, involving only 9 athletically trained males who received 6 grams of spirulina each day or a placebo over a 4-week period, but there are also other studies that reached this same conclusion. If you want to go further and get improved muscle strength, this is the supplement for you.

4. Cancer Prevention

Numerous studies involving animals have shown that spirulina increases the body’s production of antibodies, including cells that improve the immune system, and infection-fighting proteins, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. More than 70 peer-reviewed studies have been published evaluating this algae’s effect on cancer cells. Rich in tetrapyrrholic compounds, spirulina is a potent antioxidant and anti-proliferative agent that can stop cancer cells from dividing and spreading. Studies found that when spirulina was tested on pancreatic cancer cells, spirulina decreased the proliferation of cells in tests done in vitro.

5. Very Effective Against Anemia

There are several different types of anemia, but the most common type is a reduction in the red blood cell count. Anemia gives people prolonged feelings of fatigue and weakness. One study, conducted by researchers at the University of California, found that taking spirulina supplements helped 40 senior citizens with a history of anemia. Results showed that spirulina increased the hemoglobin content of red blood cells. Spirulina also improved overall immune function.

6. Eliminates Candida

Candida is a normal fungus that lives in the body, but overuse of antibiotics or a compromised immune system allows candida to take hold and grow out of control in the mouth, digestive tract, nasal passages, and the vagina. When the flora of our bodies is out of balance, we are much more susceptible to disease and illness. Believe it or not, candidiasis is the leading cause of mycosis related death in America, and candida overgrowth is a huge marker for most autoimmune diseases. Spirulina is a very effective anti-microbial agent, inhibits the growth of candida and encourages the growth of the healthy bacteria in the body.

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