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Spirulina (Arthrospira platensis) Health Benefits

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  • 1 year ago
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Numerous scientific studies have delved into the remarkable potential of Spirulina in fighting various diseases. Some of the most rigorous research, including randomized controlled trials and systematic reviews, indicates that this algae can do more than just alleviate symptoms—it may possess powerful properties that combat cancer, viruses, and allergies. It’s a promising natural remedy with a wide range of potential health benefits. (1) 

Today we look at the nutritional effect and touch on just a a few of the health benefits of consuming Spirulina.

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Nutritional Benefits of Spirulina

This amazing algae has long been a crucial part of human diets, serving as a valuable protein and vitamin source with no noteworthy side effects. In addition to its high protein content, which can reach up to 70%, it’s rich in essential vitamins, particularly B12 and provitamin A (β-carotenes), as well as important minerals, such as iron. It’s a natural nutritional powerhouse with much to offer.

Spirulina is often hailed as the “food of the future,” boasting exceptional components that fuel high energy levels. Among these components, some, like polysaccharides (Rhamnose and Glycogen) and essential fats (GLA), are readily absorbed by our cells, aiding in the release of energy.

Spirulina is composed of numerous antioxidants, including beta-carotene, phycocyanin, tocopherols, micronutrients, polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly gamma-linolenic acid, and phenolic compounds. The high nutritive values of spirulina were recognised by the Intergovernmental Institution for the use of Microalgae Spirulina Against Malnutrition in the 1970s, where they launched Spirulina to fight against starvation and malnutrition. ( 2)

Spirulina’s beneficial impact on healthy lactobacillus in the gut leads to the production of Vitamin B6, further supporting the release of energy, making it a potential superfood for vitality.

Spirulina For Iron

In a study, after eight weeks of Spirulina supplementation, the results showed a significant increase in serum iron levels compared to the placebo group. The Spirulina group also had significantly higher mean corpuscular volume, while the placebo group saw lower red blood cell count and hematocrit levels. These findings suggest that Spirulina supplementation could be valuable in managing anemia. (3)

Healing Effects Of Spirulina

Cholesterol
In one clinical study, 15 diabetic patients who took Spirulina experienced a notable drop in their LDL : HDL ratio. Another study discovered a significant decrease in blood cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL cholesterol, along with an increase in HDL cholesterol. This suggests that Spirulina could be a beneficial addition for managing cholesterol and promoting heart health.

Weight Loss
In a study involving 50 obese individuals with hypertension who were already undergoing antihypertensive treatment, half were given 2 grams of Spirulina daily for three months, while the other half received a placebo. The Spirulina group saw significant improvements in body mass, reducing from 92.96 kg to 88.97 kg, BMI dropping from 33.5 kg/m² to 31.7 kg/m², and a decrease in waist circumference. These findings highlight the potential of Spirulina in aiding weight management and improving health outcomes. (2) 

The advantages of incorporating Spirulina into your diet go beyond what we’ve mentioned earlier. This remarkable algae offers a wide array of benefits, including antiviral, anticancer, antioxidant, antidiabetic, anti-inflammatory, liver protection, heart protection, and immune system enhancement properties. It’s a true health all-rounder. (2) 

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Cabbage Health Benefits

Cabbage (Brassica oleracea) Health Benfits

2 days ago4Minutes1252Words8ViewsCabbage, a cruciferous vegetable, offers numerous gut health benefits, largely due to its rich nutritional profile. It provides dietary fiber, antioxidants, and important vitamins that contribute to maintaining a healthy digestive system. Here’s an overview of the key gut health benefits of cabbage, along with the role of glutamine: 1. Rich in Dietary Fiber Cabbage is an excellent source of both soluble and insoluble fiber. Fiber plays a crucial role in supporting gut health by: Promoting healthy digestion: Insoluble fiber helps bulk up stool and move it through the intestines, preventing constipation and ensuring regular bowel movements. Supporting beneficial gut bacteria: Soluble fiber is fermented by gut bacteria, which produces short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) like butyrate. These SCFAs fuel the cells of the colon, promoting a healthy gut lining and reducing inflammation. 2. Antioxidants and Anti-inflammatory Properties Cabbage contains antioxidants such as vitamin C, beta-carotene, and flavonoids, which help reduce oxidative stress in the gut. This is important because chronic inflammation in the gut can lead to digestive disorders like IBS (Irritable Bowel Syndrome), Crohn’s disease, and ulcerative colitis. Cabbage’s anti-inflammatory properties help soothe the gut lining and maintain a healthy gut environment. 3. Supports Gut Lining and Mucosal Health Cabbage, especially when consumed in its raw form, contains glutamine, an amino acid that has been shown to support gut health. Glutamine is essential for maintaining the integrity of the intestinal lining. It helps to: Repair the gut lining: Glutamine supports the epithelial cells of the intestines, aiding in their repair and regeneration. This is especially important for those with leaky gut syndrome or those suffering from inflammation-related digestive disorders. Enhance gut permeability: Glutamine aids in maintaining the balance of the gut’s permeability, ensuring that nutrients pass through properly while preventing harmful substances from entering the bloodstream. 4. Helps in Digestive Enzyme Production Cabbage contains a significant amount of vitamin U (also known as S-methylmethionine), which can help boost the production of digestive enzymes. These enzymes aid in breaking down food and absorbing nutrients, which is vital for optimal digestive health. 5. Supports Detoxification Cabbage, particularly the variety known as sauerkraut, supports detoxification through its high content of glucosinolate compounds. These compounds help activate detoxifying enzymes in the liver, which supports the overall health of the digestive system by helping the body eliminate waste more efficiently. Role of Glutamine in Gut Health from Cabbage: Cabbage as a Glutamine Source: While glutamine is found in various foods, including meat, fish, and dairy, cabbage is one of the plant-based sources that can contribute to its intake. Glutamine in cabbage supports gut cells and helps to maintain a healthy mucosal layer in the intestines. This, in turn, protects the gut from irritants and helps heal the gut lining after it has been damaged by inflammation or stress. Intestinal Health: Glutamine is the preferred fuel for intestinal cells (enterocytes), which helps maintain the integrity of the gut barrier. This function is critical for individuals suffering from gut disorders like IBS, Crohn’s disease, or ulcerative colitis, as glutamine helps reduce gut permeability and improve overall digestive function. Conclusion Including cabbage in your diet, whether raw, cooked, or fermented, offers numerous benefits for gut health. It provides dietary fiber, antioxidants, and glutamine, which help support healthy digestion, reduce inflammation, repair the gut lining, and maintain optimal gut barrier function. This makes cabbage a powerful ally for anyone looking to improve their digestive health naturally. Would you like more information on how to incorporate cabbage into your diet for gut health, or perhaps explore additional glutamine-rich foods? Try this Recipe:Mung Bean Coleslaw 10% Off BodiClenz – Ultimate Herbal DETOX Drink $152.10 – $259.00 View Info 10% Off Ultimate Herbal DETOX Body Cleanse Program $195.75 – $197.10 View Info Digezaid Digestive Support 120 Capsules $59.00 View Info 10% Off BodiTune Detox n Slim 500g or 1kg Pot $116.10 – $197.10 View Info No products found

Using Heat To Encourage Detoxification

Super Hot Winter Detox

The balance between our inner and outer environments play a major role when considering health from the holisitc standpoint, and can be why we become more susceptible to certain ailments at different times of year.
Let’s explore some of the key reasons to use heat as part of a mid-winter detox.