Spirulina

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Spirulina is a blue-green algae containing complete, balanced protein and a wide range of valuable nutrients. Spirulina is approximately 70% easily digestible protein. It contains 18 out of 22 amino acids and all of the essential amino acids, making it a unique vegetarian source of complete protein. Better yet, Spirulina protein is 95% digestible compared to meat sources, which are often difficult for the body to break down. In fact, beef protein is estimated to be only 20% digestible. Spirulina is a wonderful way to consume high quality protein that's easy on the body. It contains enzymes, which naturally assist in the digestion process. Doctors and Scientists recommend we eat five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. In real life, it doesn??t always happen. That's why you need Spirulina. Spirulina supplies more concentrated vegetable nutrition than any other whole food.

Naturally Rich in Nutrients
The complete, whole-food nutrition found in this ancient food provides an endless list of health benefits. Spirulina is particularly high in beta-carotene, which is a powerful antioxidant that protects the body from free radical damage. It also converts into vitamin A in the body. Vitamin A is essential for healthy eyes, skin, teeth, nails, hair, bones and a strong immune system.

Spirulina is an excellent source of B vitamins, particularly vitamin B12, which is important for vegetarians. This nutritious food also contains vitamin E, a highly bioavailable source of iron, 14 naturally chelated minerals and numerous trace elements.

SuperFood for Dieters
In addition to being one of the most nutrient-rich foods on earth, Spirulina is low in fat, calories and cholesterol. Many people have found that when they eat Spirulina before a meal, it satisfies their appetite allowing them to reduce their overall food consumption. When the body receives proper nutrition, it is far less likely to have an overactive appetite, which can lead undernourished people to eat large amounts of food. Spirulina is a nutrient rich food that will satisfy the appetite with few calories. This SuperFood can be a valuable part of any healthy weight loss program.

Spirulina is also an excellent source of complex carbohydrates. It contains glycogen and rhamnose, which are easily absorbed by the body and converted into quick energy.

This low calorie, high protein, nutritious food provides the abundant energy we need to live each day to the fullest.

Indications for Using Spirulina
With the increase in popularity of 'green foods,' Spirulina has become increasingly in demand. It has been reputed to be useful in the treatment of:
Diabetes
Glaucoma
Liver pathologies
Cancer
Increasing neurotransmitter formation
Acting as an appetite suppressant
Supports healthy immune system
Supports normal cholesterol levels .
Boosts energy and cellular health


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Why spirulina is considered as super food?

Consisted of protein of which 4 times higher than protein in meat and 5 times in egg.
Consisted of 8 amino acids which can not be completely produced by our body.
Consisted of beta-carotene which is the source of Vitamin A that is 20-25 times more than in carrot.
Consisted of vitamin and mineral salt at appropriate quantity upon comparing with other food.
Consisted of vitamin B1 more than in vegetable, fruit and some animal for almost 100 times.
Consisted of vitamin B2 which is 5-20 times more than other foods.
Consisted of vitamin B12 that helps to enhance good memory, prevent serious anemia. Most peoples take vitamin B12 from animal livers but in spirulina consisted of vitamin B12 of which is 2.5 times more than in the animal livers. In addition to benefit to the brain, it is also excellent to the vegetarian as well.
Consisted of gamma-lynolenic acid(GLA) which is an important fatty acid to reduce chloresterol, prevent hypertension, cardiopathy and free from any toxic substaces.


Spirulina helps to nourish brain for good health

Amino acid which is the chemical organic daily desired by our body. Spirulina consisted with 8 essential amino acid that can not be produced by our body. Lacking of those acid shall cause the lacking of raw material to produce hormone to support the complete amino acid shall cause several disease. As spirulina consisted of complete amino acid, it can replenish the nervous system, protect the brain cell, improve the brain system.

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Benefits of the World's Healthiest Food.

The World's Healthiest Food
Rich in Beta Carotene and Phytonutrients

This tiny aquatic plant offers 60% all-vegetable protein, essential vitamins and phytonutrients such as the antioxidant beta carotene, the rare essential fatty acid GLA, sulfolipids, glycolipids and polysaccharides.

Its deep green color comes from its rainbow of natural pigments - chlorophyll (green), phycocyanin (blue) and carotenoids (orange) - that harvest the sun's energy. Easy-to-digest so nutrients are absorbed quickly.


The healthiest food is your best defense
The foods we eat are the first line of defense from the negative effects of lifestyle stress, pollution, radiation and toxic chemicals. Yet so many processed foods are nutritionally empty. They leave us vulnerable to poor health and low energy.

The good news is many essential nutrients recommended by experts to help protect our bodies are concentrated in Spirulina. It contains the most powerful combination of nutrients ever known in any grain, herb or food.

World's highest beta carotene food reduces long term health risks.
Spirulina beta carotene is ten times more concentrated than carrots. So even if you don't eat the recommended 4 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day (most people eat only 1-2, including french fries), get your natural beta carotene insurance from spirulina to help support your body's defenses.
60% easy-to-digest vegetable protein without the fat and cholesterol of meat.
People are eating less meat and dairy protein because they want to lower fat, cholesterol, and chemicals in their diet. Spirulina is the highest protein food with all the essential amino acids and has only a few calories to keep your waistline where you want it.
A rare essential fatty acid is a key to health.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in mother's milk helps develop healthy babies. Studies show nutritional deficiencies can block GLA production in your body, so a good dietary source of GLA can be important. Spirulina is the only other whole food with GLA.
Iron for women and children's health.
Iron is essential to build a strong system, yet is the most common mineral deficiency. Spirulina is rich in iron, magnesium and trace minerals, and is easier to absorb than iron supplements.
High in Vitamin B-12 and B Complex.
Spirulina is the highest source of B-12, essential for healthy nerves and tissue, especially for vegetarians.
Unusual phytonutrients for health and cleansing.
Scientists are discovering the benefits of polysaccharides, sulfolipids & glycolipids, and the rainbow of natural pigments that give spirulina a deep green color. Green (chlorophyll), blue (phycocyanin) and orange (carotenoids) colors collect the sun's energy and power growth. Chlorophyll is a natural cleanser and is often referred to as nature's green magic.
Use spirulina's longevity to benefit your health.
This superfood of the 1990s is not a synthetic laboratory brew. This immortal life form has been renewing itself for over 3.5 billion years. Through history, this remarkable aquatic plant has nourished people in Africa and America. Today, spirulina is consumed by health conscious people all over the world. If you are moving away from empty processed food and chemical vitamins to natural foods, start using spirulina, nature's longest living food.

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Protein & Amino Acids

As a protien supplement spirulina has a distinct advantage over other forms of supplement. Because of the important role proteins play in our overall health and well being, they are often referred to as the building blocks of life.

Proteins are complex molecules consisting of chains of amino acids and are best known for their role in the formation and repair of structures such as muscle and bone. However, proteins and their aminos? have numerous other vital functions, such as insulin management, immune system regeneration, mineral transport and anti-hypertensive properties.

Proteins are made up of 22 identified amino acids. Nine of these are essential yet the body cannot produce them, so they must be provided by the diet. Non-essential amino acids are needed also, but the body can produce these itself. . Essential amino acids, plus sufficient nitrogen in foods, are needed to synthesize the non-essential amino acids.

The quality of the protein depends on the amounts of amino acids contained in a protein. The more closely the protein matches the body?s requirements the higher the quality. Spirulina is known as a ?complete protein? due to the fact that it contains all the essential amino acids. This means we can get our necessary intake of protein without subjecting our digestive system to the hard work of processing animal products.

Digestable Protein Unlike other forms of protein, the protein in Spirulina is 85-95% digestible, one of the highest available. In fact, Spirulina is second only to a dried egg supplment with regards to usable protein, and higher than any of the common foods in the form in which they are usually purchased.
Being composed of soft mucopolysaccharides, Spirulina has no cellulose in its cell walls making it easy for the body to digest and assimilate.

Its amino acids are delivered to the body for almost instant absorption.

Protein digestibility is important for many people and especially important for people suffering from intestinal malabsorption or digestive disorders. Typically, many older people have difficulty digesting complex proteins and are on restricted diets. They find Spirulina?s protein an ideal way of ensuring they receive the nourishment needed. Spirulina is an effective supplment for sufferers of malnutrition diseases where the ability of intestinal absorption has been damaged. Given to malnourished children, it is more effective than milk powders because milk's lactic acid can be difficult to absorb.

On top of all this, Spirulina complements vegetable proteins found in beans and pulses and increases their amino acid quality.

 

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Spirulina is a single cell type of algae that thrives in warm alkaline fresh water. Spirulina is one of the most natural, clean foods that can be found in nature. It is the highest source of natural Beta-Carotene, Vitamin D and GLA (Gamma Linolenic Acid). Spirulina contains all nine essential Amino Acids. It is extremely high in natural protein, much higher than beef.

Spirulina is a food that has extremely long shelf life. It contains 26 times the calcium of milk and has a good supply of niacin and phosphorus. It is of great help to almost any kind of ailment known to mankind. It helps build the blood, gives energy, and strengthens cells and tissue. Spirulina helps balance blood sugar and satisfies hunger.

Spirulina balances RNA/DNA, it helps the brain function and gives better mental clarity. Energy is noticed in a few short days as well as a keen alertness. Spirulina is a complete protein, contains the complete Complex vitamins and the essential Trace Minerals and Fatty Acids.

Spirulina helps the body to detox in a natural way and eventually will rid the body of toxic poisons. It helps the body with mineral absorption and, helps reduce cholesterol.

The name Spirulina is derived from the word Helix, meaning a normal spiral of Electric Charge. This is interpreted to mean - to help correct the body polarity. This along with Bee Pollen make the greatest boon to the puzzle of why do some people seem to always be sick or shopping for a doctor to help them with their chronic fatigue, depression. anxiety, nervousness, sleeplessness, hypochondria and many other problems. They go from doctor to doctor when the answer could be that their POLARITY COULD BE SWITCHED, much like reversing the cables on you car battery.

Green algae extract can boost the body's immune response to flu vaccine, says a Canadian study. Researchers from Dalhousie University in Halifax, Nova Scotia, and Ocean Nutrition Canada found that taking a carbohydrate extract of green algae in pill form greatly boosted the immune response to the flu vaccine in people aged 50 to 55.

This is the first published human study to show how a derivative of food source algae improves the body's immune response to the influenza vaccine. The study appears in the current issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal.


BENEFITS OF SPIRULINA:


* Stimulates immune system to destroy invading disease organisms and carcinogens.

* Potentiates the immune system with its anti-tumor, anti-viral and interferon inducing effects.

* Helps to sanitize the bowel by detoxifying the colon and promoting the growth of friendly bacteria.

* Promotes tissue repair in wounds and burns and has anti-infectious properties.

* Decreases cholesterol levels and helps to lower the risk of cardiovascular disease.

* Works as an anti-inflammatory, helping to reduce the inflammation characteristic of arthritis.

* Provides superior nutritional support as one of nature's whole foods for anyone who is weakened by disease, alcohol or drug abuse.

* Helps to balance RNA/DNA (nucleic acids)

* Curbs the appetite and helps to stimulate the metabolism.

* Works like an antioxidant in detoxifying the body of pollutants.

Spirulina grows naturally in Lake Chad and Lake Nakuru in Africa and in Lake Texcoco in Mexico. Spirulina is not actually a marine algae.

Spirulina is carefully cultivated in special water-farms in subtropical regions. Spirulina is farmed in Hawaii, California, Thailand, Taiwan, India, China and elsewhere. The farms are situated in subtropical areas around latitude 20.

 

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How Spirulina, Our Immortal Ancestor,
Can Change Your Life Now!
Earth's first food produced oxygen so life could evolve

These tiny green spiral coils harvest the energy of the sun, growing a treasure of bioavailable nutrients. This first photosynthetic life form was designed by nature 3.6 billion years ago. Blue green algae produced the oxygen in our atmosphere allowing all higher life forms to evolve. It contains everything life needed to evolve into its rich diversity today.

This immortal life form has renewed itself for billions of years. In the past 20 years it has reintroduced itself to humanity. Spirulina contains billions of years of successful evolutionary wisdom coded in its DNA.


More nutrition per acre than any other food
It can be grown with brackish water and non-fertile land that cannot be used by other crops. It can produce 20 times more protein per acre than soybeans.

If we can use unusable resources to grow the most powerful food on Earth, we can help stop cutting the last of the primordial forests to grow food. By bringing spirulina into our personal lives, we become part of the solution to improve the health of our planet.

Why is spirulina the most researched algae? Does spirulina contain antioxidants? Phytonutrients? Probiotics? Nutraceuticals? Yes on all counts.

It contains compounds like phycocyanin, polysaccharides and sulfolipids that enhance the immune system. Spirulina contains the most remarkable concentration of functional nutrients ever known in any food, plant, grain or herb.

No other algae, blue-green or chlorella, has been the subject of such intense research over the past 30 years. Thousands of scientific studies. Why? Unlike other algae, we can economically cultivate spirulina all over the globe.


What new discoveries are being revealed?

Several years ago, the National Cancer Institute announced sulfolipids from blue-green algae like spirulina were remarkably active in test tube experiments against the AIDS virus.

In 1993-95, research showed natural polysaccharides in spirulina increased T-cell counts, strengthened the immune system and raised disease resistance in chickens, fish and mice. The animal feed industry is embracing spirulina as a new probiotic to replace overused antiobiotic drugs in animal feeds. In 1994, a Russian patent was awarded for spirulina as a medicine for reducing allergic reactions from radiation in the Children of Chernobyl.

The oldest organisms-the ones who gave us life-are back to revitalize us.
They are one of the many solutions we need for restoring our planet in the next 20 years

 

[gear101]

The healthiest food is your best defense
The foods we eat are the first line of defense from the negative effects of lifestyle stress, pollution, radiation and toxic chemicals. Yet so many processed foods are nutritionally empty. They leave us vulnerable to poor health and low energy.
The good news is many essential nutrients recommended by experts to help protect our bodies are concentrated in Spirulina. It contains the most powerful combination of nutrients ever known in any grain, herb or food.

World's highest beta carotene food reduces long term health risks.
Spirulina beta carotene is ten times more concentrated than carrots. So even if you don't eat the recommended 4 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day (most people eat only 1-2, including french fries), get your natural beta carotene insurance from spirulina to help support your body's defenses.
60% easy-to-digest vegetable protein without the fat and cholesterol of meat.
People are eating less meat and dairy protein because they want to lower fat, cholesterol, and chemicals in their diet. Spirulina is the highest protein food with all the essential amino acids and has only a few calories to keep your waistline where you want it.
A rare essential fatty acid is a key to health.
Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in mother's milk helps develop healthy babies. Studies show nutritional deficiencies can block GLA production in your body, so a good dietary source of GLA can be important. Spirulina is the only other whole food with GLA.
Iron for women and children's health.
Iron is essential to build a strong system, yet is the most common mineral deficiency. Spirulina is rich in iron, magnesium and trace minerals, and is easier to absorb than iron supplements.
High in Vitamin B-12 and B Complex.
Spirulina is the highest source of B-12, essential for healthy nerves and tissue, especially for vegetarians.
Unusual phytonutrients for health and cleansing.
Scientists are discovering the benefits of polysaccharides, sulfolipids & glycolipids, and the rainbow of natural pigments that give spirulina a deep green color. Green (chlorophyll), blue (phycocyanin) and orange (carotenoids) colors collect the sun's energy and power growth. Chlorophyll is a natural cleanser and is often referred to as nature's green magic.
Use spirulina's longevity to benefit your health.
This superfood of the 1990s is not a synthetic laboratory brew. This immortal life form has been renewing itself for over 3.5 billion years. Through history, this remarkable aquatic plant has nourished people in Africa and America. Today, spirulina is consumed by health conscious people all over the world. If you are moving away from empty processed food and chemical vitamins to natural foods, start using spirulina, nature's longest living food.

Ecologically grown at Earthrise Farms for 100% purity
At the world's largest spirulina farm, in the clean, remote sunny California desert, spirulina grows rapidly, producing 20 times more protein per acre than soybeans. Grown without pesticides or herbicides and dried in a few seconds preserving full nutritional value without stabilizers or chemical additives.



Pesticide free for your safety
People are becoming concerned about risks to themselves and their children from pesticides in fruits and vegetables. Tested by independent laboratories, Earthrise Farms Spirulina has no detectable pesticide residues. Good for the Earth and good for you.
Highest quality for your peace of mind
Every day Earthrise Farms scientists conduct dozens of rigorous quality control tests. Quality is confirmed by independent labs. Sold in 30 countries, and its high quality exceeds all international food standards.

Clean green energy is good for everyone
Spirulina is the most extensively researched food microalgae, well documented in numerous books, journal articles, and periodicals. Many people use Spirulina in their own self-care strategy for more energy, nutritional insurance, weight control and cleansing. Perfect in between or before meals for good nutrition without the heaviness of bulky food. Athletes discover more endurance and strength. Seniors find better nutrient absorption. Ideal and safe for children, pregnant and nursing mothers.

Easy to take anytime for more vitality
The experience of long time consumers and the scientific evidence suggest that 3 to 10 grams a day will provide significant health benefits. Daily use is most beneficial. Tablets are convenient anytime, between, before, or with meals. Many enjoy mixing Spirulina powder in a green fruit juice smoothie as an instant breakfast, or a vegetable juice smoothie in the afternoon.

Feel the power of Spirulina in your life
Feel good inside and look good outside. Add it to your daily diet to supplement the power of the good foods you eat. Lean on it when you can't eat, or don't eat, the foods you should. Do it soon and start feeling wonderful right away

 

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Introduction
We're undergoing a health revolution. As more people take responsibility for their own health, the demand for natural foods, herbal medicines and nutraceuticals is growing dramatically. One of these is a superfood called spirulina. Although this ancient algae has been eaten for centuries by traditional people, it was only rediscovered by scientists 30 years ago.

I'm here to introduce you to Robert Henrikson and his inspiring partnership with spirulina. About 20 years ago, Robert and a few other green people around the planet partnered with spirulina to bring it to the market as a world food. Robert has founded Earthrise Farms, the world's largest spirulina farm, and introduced this algae to millions of people in over 30 countries.

He has authored the book Earth Food Spirulina: How this remarkable blue-green algae can transform your life and our planet, translated so far into seven languages. Algae is introducing itself to us just in time. Our planet faces a health crisis - we call it an environmental crisis. At the same time, new bacteria, viruses and chemical pollution challenge our own health.

Robert says he has been eating spirulina as long as anyone has - for over 20 years. He will introduce you to the discoveries from the source of life - the amazing health benefits of spirulina - for people, animals and our planet.


First, Robert, tell us how and why you began your relationship with spirulina 22 years ago.

I was looking for something worthwhile to do, bigger than myself, something that could change the world. My close friend Larry Switzer introduced me to spirulina in 1976, and I've been excited ever since. By then, scientists knew it was a safe food, had been consumed for hundreds of years by traditional people, and showed promising nutritional and therapeutic benefits. It was even believed to be 20 times more productive as a protein source than any other food. Possible to grow a pure culture on a large scale in many places around the world. If this algae were consumed by millions of people, it would have great benefits especially for the world's children and our planet's future. One problem - 22 years ago, no one had actually done it.

Well, how and where did you actually start?

The perfect climate for growing spirulina was the hottest and sunniest place. So, we left the comforts of Berkeley for the remote California desert, south of Palm Springs. The locals laughed about these guys from Berkeley coming to the desert to grow algae. Our first ponds were wiped out by a flood that hadn't happened in a hundred years, so we built a second prototype farm. Four years later, Earthrise Farms was begun in 1981, the first US production farm.

Robert, just what is spirulina?

It's a microscopic algae in the shape of a perfect spiral coil. This first photosynthetic life form, our immortal ancestor, was designed by nature 3.5 billion years ago. Blue-green algae like spirulina produced the oxygen in our atmosphere allowing all higher life forms to evolve. It has renewed itself with billions of years of successful evolutionary wisdom coded in its DNA.

Why has spirulina been called a superfood?

Because it contains the most remarkable concentration of nutrients known in any food, plant, grain or herb. Its the highest protein food- over 60% all digestible vegetable protein. It has the highest concentration of beta carotene, vitamin B-12, iron and trace minerals and the rare essential fatty acid GLA. These make spirulina a great whole food alternative to isolated vitamin and minerals.

I've been reading about nutraceuticals and phytonutrients. What does spirulina contain?

Scientists are identifying whole foods and plants with special life enhancing compounds, called phytonutrients. They are the leading edge of the health revolution. Spirulina is loaded with unique phytonutrients like phycocyanin, polysaccharides and sulfolipids that enhance the immune system, possibly reducing risks of infection, cancer and auto immune disease. Rich in natural carotenoid antioxidants that promote cellular health and reduce the risk of cancer. It has cleansing chlorophyll which helps detoxify our bodies of ever present pollution.

And spirulina is a safe algae, right?

Spirulina is unique among blue-green algae because it has a long history of safe use. The Aztecs consumed spirulina in Mexico over five centuries ago. Indigenous people consume spirulina growing in African Lakes today. For the past 20 years, millions of people around the world have enjoyed it as a safe food supplement. In fact, the United Nations and the World Health Organization recommend spirulina as safe and nutritious for children.

That's great, but I've heard some wild blue green algae may be toxic.

Just like mushrooms and plants, some kinds of algae are toxic. Wild algae harvested from lakes may be contaminated by other toxic algae. Unlike algae growing wild in an uncontrolled environment, spirulina has a huge advantage. It can be safely cultivated in a pure culture. At Earthrise Farms, spirulina is scientifically cultivated using ecological farming methods.

How does Earthrise Farms cultivate, harvest and process spirulina?

Our ecological farming means no pesticides or herbicides are ever used. Spirulina grows in over 30 ponds, each larger than a football field. Long paddlewheels mix the pond water for optimum growth. We harvest every day during the growing season, April through November. Spirulina rich water is pumped to the sealed harvest building for a quick 15 minute journey through the stainless steel harvest and drying system. Dehydration takes only a few seconds, preserving heat sensitive pigments and phytonutrients with no preservatives, no additives and no irradiation.

How do you assure quality?

Spirulina powder is cold pressed directly into tablets and sealed into bottles at the special Earthrise Farms bottling plant. Each day farm scientists conduct over 40 quality control tests on each lot - from the ponds to the packaged product. In this way we can guarantee quality, purity and potency from the living ponds to the customer. This integrated system offers a new model for Earth-friendly food production.

Isn't spirulina one of the most productive foods in the world?

Spirulina offers more nutrition per acre than any other food. Growing at Earthrise Farms, spirulina delivers 20 times more protein per acre than soybeans, 200 times more than beef. By growing more spirulina, we can help stop cutting the last original forests to grow food. By bringing it into our personal lives, we become part of the solution to improve the health of our planet.

What do people say about spirulina's health benefits? You've probably heard thousand of testimonials over the years.

Yes, I have. For the past 20 years, people around the world have told me such amazing stories about their results from spirulina. They've experienced increased energy and alertness, reduced weight, enhanced cleansing and fasting, and increased resistance to disease. Spirulina is great for people of all ages, including children. Older people find it easy-to-digest. Athletes find it provides energy and endurance and speeds recovery. I've heard about so many remarkable recoveries from life-threatening illness.

A lot of people take herbs and botanicals. Does spirulina do the same things they do?

Herbs have specialized active ingredients that correct a health condition when we are out of balance or depleted. For example, echinacea and golden seal can help fight off colds or flu. Some herbs should only be taken for a limited time because of possible side effects. However, spirulina is a safe whole food, and can be enjoyed every day. It works in many ways to strengthen and balance our health, offering a rich nutrient profile to deeply nourish our bodies. It builds a strong foundation, so we are less vulnerable to invading bacteria and viruses. It's so potent, only a few grams a day are needed.

Does spirulina contain colloidal and ionic forms of minerals?

Essential minerals may be missing from conventional foods grown in depleted soils. But most isolated mineral supplements aren't well absorbed or utilized by our bodies. Spirulina grows at Earthrise Farms in water supplemented with trace minerals in ionic form. These are absorbed and chelated by spirulina. Calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, zinc, selenium and other trace minerals now in natural colloidal plant form are well utilized by our bodies. They nourish and power our critical enzyme systems.

How does spirulina balance and strengthen our immune system?

Scientific theory explains the prime directive of our body's metabolism is to support our immune system. When our immune system is stressed or suffering, it draws on our body's metabolic energy. People with immune system imbalance often feel chronic fatigue and low energy.

Both scientific research and the experience of thousands of people indicate spirulina is an immune regulating food. Small amounts can help balance and stabilize the immune system, freeing up more of our metabolic energy for vitality, healing and assimilation of nutrients. It enhances the body's cellular communication process and its ability to read and repair DNA, like a kind of cellular tune up. This is why people taking spirulina often report they have more energy.

Is there actual scientific evidence for all these claims?

Yes. An international detective hunt has been underway for over 20 years. Scientists around the world - in Japan, China, India, Europe, Russia and the USA - are discovering how and why spirulina is so effective for human and animal health. Hundreds of published scientific studies reveal how spirulina and its unique phytonutrients boost the immune system and improve health. No other algae has been the subject of such intense research.

You've said spirulina works in many ways to strengthen our health. Where do we begin?

Scientific discoveries show how spirulina benefits five of the most important health issues today: 1. Strengthening the immune system. 2. Supporting cardiovascular health and lowering cholesterol. 3. Improving gastrointestinal and digestive health. 4. Enhancing natural cleansing and detoxification. 5. Reducing cancer risks with better antioxidant protection.

How does spirulina strengthen the immune system?

Over the years I've heard from so many people that they have fewer colds and flu, or if they get a cold, they escape more chronic symptoms. They say wounds heal faster and they recover more quickly from illness. They have more energy. Spirulina is a powerful tonic for the immune system.

Published studies from all over the world feeding mice, hamsters, chickens, turkeys, cats, fish and even humans, confirm spirulina improves immune system function. Medical scientists discovered it not only stimulates the immune system, it actually enhances the body's ability to generate new blood cells. Important parts of the immune system, bone marrow stem cells, macrophages, T-cells and natural killer cells, spleen and thymus glands - all show enhanced activity. Scientists observe it causes macrophages to increase in number, become activated and more effective killing germs.

Because spirulina increases disease resistance in animals, even in very small doses, the animal feed industry is studying its use as an new probiotic to help replace overused antibiotic drugs in animal feeds. Scientists in Japan have published new studies showing a purified extract unique to spirulina inhibits replication of HIV-1, Herpes, Influenza, Mumps and Measles virus in-vitro yet is very safe for human cells.

The phytonutrients responsible for strengthening the immune system are beta carotene, phycocyanin and polysaccharides. Of course, scientists are confirming what people have been experiencing all along.

How does spirulina enhance cardiovascular health and help lower cholesterol?

Many people are taking dietary supplements to support a healthy heart and lower cholesterol. One of these people, my father, was prescribed drugs to lower his cholesterol ten years ago. Instead he began taking spirulina and niacin. Now he's a vibrant 82, and his cholesterol level is still safe and under control.

Scientists have been confirming this too. Animal nutrition studies in Mexico, Argentina, Japan and India found the same cholesterol lowering benefits and an improvement in heart artery function for lower blood pressure. Published scientific studies with men in Japan and India showed several grams of spirulina daily can lower cholesterol. These studies suggest spirulina will reduce serum LDL (Low Density Lipoproteins - the bad cholesterol) and raise HDL (High Density Lipoproteins - the good guys).

Human studies in Germany and India found a weight reduction effect along with cholesterol reduction. All these studies indicate spirulina is a useful supplement for cardiovascular health and for lowering cholesterol.

How does it improve gastrointestinal and digestive health?

When people take spirulina they often notice immediate change in regularity and elimination. Research confirms it does promote digestion and bowel function. It suppresses bad bacteria like e-coli and Candida yeast and stimulates beneficial flora like lactobacillus and bifidobacteria. Healthy flora is the foundation of good health and it increases absorption of nutrients from the foods we eat, and helps protect against infection.

In a village clinic in Togo, West Africa, we provided a tablespoon a day to undernourished children. Their mothers praised this 'green medicine' for bringing rapid recovery and weight gain. Other studies with malnourished children in Mexico, India, Romania, Rwanda and Zaire, have shown easily digested spirulina is beneficial when intestines no longer absorb food effectively.

It's a great food for malnourished people precisely because it helps rebuild healthy intestinal flora, which are essential for the utilization of more complex foods. Because in AIDS patients, nutrient malabsorption associated with opportunistic infections can initiate full blown AIDS, we've been donating spirulina to health clinics for HIV positive people.

How does spirulina enhance natural cleansing and detoxification?

When spirulina was first introduced 20 years ago, people quickly discovered it accelerated detoxification during fasting and cleansing. Later, in Japan, researchers found spirulina significantly reduced kidney toxicity caused by the heavy metal mercury and three pharmaceutical drugs. This suggested it's beneficial for humans suffering from heavy metal poisoning. Other researchers found rats consuming spirulina or chlorella algae eliminated 7 times the dangerous chemical dioxin compared to a control diet.

In 1994, a Russian Patent was awarded for spirulina as a medical food to reduce allergic reactions from radiation sickness. 270 Children of Chernobyl consuming 5 grams a day for 45 days (donated by Earthrise Farms), lowered radionucleides by 50%, and normalized allergic sensitivities.

Today we are subject to an onslaught of toxic chemicals in our air, water, food and drugs. Our bodies need to continually eliminate these accumulated toxins. Spirulina has a completely unique combination of phytonutrients - including chlorophyll, phycocyanin and polysaccharides, that can help cleanse our bodies.

How does spirulina increase antioxidant protection and reduce cancer risks?

Free radical molecules damage our body's cells. They are caused by pollution, poor diet, stress and injury. Antioxidant nutrients fight these dangerous oxidizing free radicals. They also stimulate our immune system to guard against cancer and other diseases and even slow the aging process. Major antioxidant vitamins are beta carotene (provitamin A) C, and E. Antioxidant minerals selenium, maganese, zinc, copper, iron and chromium form our bodies antioxidant enzymes. Spirulina contains all these nutrients, and exceptionally high levels of beta carotene and iron, and zinc in super spirulina.

Research shows spirulina helps protect Vitamin C from potency loss. In the past 20 years, many studies have shown natural beta carotene from fruits and vegetables reduces the risk of many cancers. Spirulina's beta carotene has been widely studied in India with thousands of people. Just one gram a day for a year given to 5000 pre school children, significantly reduced the incidence of eye disease. One gram a day caused total regression of mouth cancer lesions in 44% of male tobacco chewers.

This reinforced an earlier Harvard study that showed a spirulina extract used topically, reversed oral cancer tumors in hamsters. Chinese scientists found the unique polysaccharides also have antioxidant properties. No doubt, spirulina is one of the most powerful antioxidant whole foods.

These remarkable reports on spirulina's benefits come from all over the world. But does all spirulina have the same quality, purity and potency?

First, there's a wide range in quality, because it can come from many countries. Customers should check the label - does it say exactly where it's grown? Is the cultivation controlled for a pure culture? With the growing concern about contaminated algae harvested from lakes, the source is important. Many people now prefer certified organic foods, and the good news is Earthrise Farms grows certified organic spirulina. Second, there's a wide variety in potency. Maintaining the highest levels of the carotenoids, phycocyanin and polysaccharides is very important. Now Earthrise Farms has developed the next generation of super spirulina.

What' special about this next generation super spirulina?

At Earthrise Farms, the world's leading algae scientists have specially selected, grown, harvested and tested spirulina for the highest antioxidant complex and 30 times more zinc than regular spirulina. Just 3 grams provide 20% of the Daily Value of zinc, which works synergistically with beta carotene. Most diets lack sufficient zinc. Many people get just half the recommended daily allowance. We need zinc every day for our body's antioxidant enzyme and immune systems and our good health. Our lifestyle needs special support to overcome the negative effects of stress, pollution and toxic chemicals. The good news is these antioxidant nutrients are among our most powerful allies, and they are concentrated in high zinc super spirulina.

Well, you've presented a lot of scientific evidence for spirulina's health benefits. Can you summarize what all this means to us?

This scientific evidence is the just tip of a large body of international research. When I attended a world algae conference in South Africa in 1996, hundreds of scientific papers were presented. By far, the greatest number were presented on spirulina. Scientists will continue to uncover its health benefits because spirulina is a safe natural food with huge global potential. Of course, people who consume it already know how much better they feel, how much more energy they have, how much more resistant to disease and infection they are. Spirulina is a truly amazing therapeutic food. Knowing this, I urge every health conscious person to take a little spirulina every day.


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We're discussing the health discoveries of spirulina algae with Robert Henrikson, author of Earth Food Spirulina. Robert, I've collected some popular questions people have asked. They want to know how spirulina is different from other popular algae, how it's ecologically cultivated, and what are its environmental advantages and its potential as a global food and medicinal resource. But first, some often asked health questions.

How are phytonutrients important for health, and why are they called the next step beyond vitamins and minerals?

In the cover story "Better than Vitamins," Newsweek asserted: ³It is whole foods...that pack the disease preventing wallop. That's because they harbor a whole ratatouille of compounds that have never seen the inside of a vitamin bottle... The compounds are called phytochemicals... In the world where science merges with health, phytochemicals are the next big thing.² The new stars of the health revolution are probiotics, antioxidants, nutraceuticals and phytonutrients loaded with disease preventing nutrients.

Even the U.S. Congress joined the bandwagon. The 1994 Dietary Supplement Act states: "There is a link between the ingestion of certain nutrients or dietary supplements and the prevention of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and osteoporosis."

You've probably noticed the growing popularity of herbs and botanicals. People aren't looking for megadoses of poorly absorbed isolated vitamins and minerals. They want health from functional nutrients in foods and plants.

The scientific research with spirulina identifies some unusual health giving phytonutrients. What are they?

Spirulina's dark color comes from a rainbow of natural pigments. They harvest sunlight at different wavelengths and protect from too much sun. These pigments offer unusual health benefits and help synthesize many enzymes necessary for regulating body metabolism. They are chlorophyll (green), carotenoids (yellow and orange) and phycocyanin (blue), the dominant color.

Not all spirulina is grown, processed and packaged the same way. Levels of these sensitive pigments vary widely. Spirulina needs high levels of all three to provide optimum health benefits. At Earthrise Farms, all three are tested on every day's production to assure potency.

I know beta carotene is an anti-cancer antioxidant nutrient. Is natural different than synthetic beta carotene?

Spirulina is the richest beta carotene food, with a full spectrum of ten mixed carotenoids. About half are orange carotenes: alpha, beta and gamma and half are yellow xanthophylls. They work synergistically at different sites in our body to enhance antioxidant protection.

Twenty years of research proves eating beta carotene rich fruits and vegetables gives us real anti-cancer protection. Synthetic beta carotene has not always shown these benefits. Research in Israel showed natural beta carotene from algae was far more effective. Natural is better assimilated and contains the key 9-cis isomer, lacking in synthetic. As suspected, natural carotenoids in algae and vegetables have the most antioxidant and anti-cancer power.

I'm familiar with chlorophyll. Its in all green plants.

That's right. Spirulina has one of nature's highest levels - about 1%. Chlorophyll is known for cleansing and detoxifying. It's sometimes called 'green blood' because it looks like the blood hemoglobin molecule. Blood has iron at its core, giving it a red color, and chlorophyll has magnesium, making it green. Spirulina's beneficial effect on anemia could be due to this similarity combined with its high bioavailable iron.

I don't know much about phycocyanin. What is it?

This protein complex is about 14% of spirulina. Phycocyanin means 'algae-blue', and is found only in blue-green algae. It evolved a billion years before chlorophyll. It may be the precursor to chlorophyll and hemoglobin, because it has both magnesium and iron at its core. Phycocyanin may be the origin of life common to both plants and animals. Research shows it stimulates the immune system, builds both red and white blood cells and assists detoxification. Chinese scientists claim phycocyanin regulates production of white blood cells even when bone marrow cells are damaged by toxic chemicals or radiation.

I'd like to know more about the other phytonutrients. Why are polysaccharides often mentioned in research?

Spirulina contains about 20% carbohydrates and sugars, making up its soft cell walls. The primary forms are rhamnose and glycogen, two polysaccharides easily absorbed by the body. Spirulina offers quick energy, without taxing the pancreas or triggering hypoglycemia.

As early as 1979, the Russians were first to discover spirulina polysaccharides stimulated the immune system of rabbits. The rest of the world didn't hear about this until 1994! Meanwhile, scientists in China, Japan and the USA found spirulina and its polysaccharide extract supercharged the immune system against viruses and germs. It acts much like a broad spectrum vaccine against invading bacteria. Based on studies with hamsters and fish, rabbits and rats, chickens and cats, as little as 3 grams a day may be effective for humans.

How about sulfolipids and glycolipids?

The National Cancer Institute found sulfolipids in blue-green algae were 'remarkably active' against the AIDS virus in vitro. Spirulina contains 5-8% lipids, and 40% of these are glycolipids and sulfolipids. These compounds seem to prevent viruses from either attaching to or penetrating cells, preventing viral infection. Meanwhile, the virus can be eliminated by the body's defenses. Exciting new research in Japan and the USA has confirmed spirulina extracts in vitro can inhibit replication of the HIV virus.

What is so unique about spirulina as a source of GLA?

We need a dietary source of essential fatty acids. One is gamma-linolenic acid - a precursor to the body's prostaglandins - master hormones that control many functions. But poor diet, saturated fats and alcohol can cause GLA deficiency leading to conditions like heart disease and premenstrual stress. A food source of GLA is important, especially for women. Known GLA foods are mothers milk and oil extracts of evening primrose, black currant and borage seeds. Spirulina is a potent source, an astonishing 1% by weight! Eight spirulina tablets contain equivalent GLA to a capsule of primrose oil. I've heard from many women who have appreciated spirulina's benefits for PMS and for healthy, beautiful skin.

How digestible is spirulina?

It's 95% digestible. It existed a billion years before plants even evolved indigestible cellulose to protect their cells. Spirulina builds soft cell walls from a network of proteins, polysaccharides and enzymes. It just melts away inside your body. This is important for those who suffer from poor digestion or malabsorption, or for older people with restricted diets.

Enzymes are important. How can spirulina build our body's enzyme systems?

Enzymes in our bodies digest our food, cut, paste and repair our DNA and power our critical body systems. It's always good to enhance our diet with raw foods like fresh fruit, vegetables and juices, which are rich in natural living enzymes. Dehydrated superfoods like spirulina still have some natural enzymes present. More importantly, spirulina has building blocks such as minerals, phytonutrients, antioxidants and polysaccharides that trigger our bodies own enzyme systems to flourish and perform their many tasks.

I've heard about balancing body pH for good health. Can spirulina do this?

It grows in very alkaline waters above pH 8. It's considered an alkaline food, and will help your body toward more alkalinity. Its a great balancer for any diet filled with acidic foods like sugar, coffee, soda, alcohol or meat. A balanced system will strengthen your health and increase resistance to disease.

How much should people take and when should they take it?

Long time consumers and scientific evidence both suggest 2-5 grams a day bring significant health benefits. This is a teaspoon of powder or 6 to 20 tablets. Take it every day for best results. Because spirulina is a whole food, you can take it alone or with meals. Take convenient tablets anytime. Or, mix spirulina powder in a fruit juice smoothie as an instant breakfast, or in a vegetable juice smoothie in the afternoon.

Is spirulina recommended for pregnant mothers, infants and children?

Yes, its a perfect supplement. Iron deficiency anemia in mothers and children is the most prevalent nutritional disorder. Pregnant women can use spirulina's vegetable protein and bioavailable iron. In India and Vietnam, doctors prescribe spirulina for pregnant and nursing mothers and their infants. Parents are often surprised how much their children enjoy this green food. Kids like to suck on tablets and munch spirulina covered popcorn.

What are the benefits for an aging population?

Spirulina is an ideal anti-aging food: concentrated nutrient value, easily digested and loaded with antioxidants. Beta carotene is good for healthy eyes and vision. This all vegetable, low fat protein means we can lighten up on a meat centered diet that can aggravate arthritis and raise cholesterol. When we choose to eat less meat, vegetables like spirulina are good sources of more iron and essential minerals.

As people age, many who don't eat enough, have restricted diets or poor digestion may experience low energy from being undernourished. Spirulina builds healthy lactobacillus, aiding assimilation and elimination and relieving constipation. Older people really notice an energy boost. In Japan, 73% of those taking spirulina are over 50 years old!

What will spirulina do for athletes?

Athletes need extra nutrition. Spirulina is a high intensity superfood for a high intensity workout. Taken before jogging or competition, it delivers energy and improves stamina. Bikers, backpackers and mountain climbers will appreciate this lightweight survival food. For bodybuilders, it offers 60% protein and amino acids, low in fat. It's helpful for reducing caloric intake, essential for maintaining competitive weight.

World Class athletes use spirulina to improve performance. The Cuban Ministry of Sports gave it to their athletes to intensify training before the 1996 Olympic games. Cuban track stars have consumed it for many years. They say it helps create and mend muscle mass and helps iron retention. It improves endurance and wards off cramping for marathoners. When training increases appetite, spirulina curbs hunger.

When I was invited to the largest Chinese training center for 2000 athletes, I thought I was going to introduce them to spirulina. But, I soon found out it was their secret ingredient they'd been using for five years. The trainers said they prescribed it for athletes for all sports. It boosts the immune system and improves recovery, so their athletes can intensify training, for which they are famous. Where does their spirulina come from? I found out this Chinese training center has its own, private and exclusive spirulina farm.

Can a person lose weight taking spirulina?

It's not an appetite suppressant. It contains no drugs that trick the body. Yet, many people find taking a few tablets or a spirulina drink an hour before mealtime can help satisfy appetite, so they eat less. We know when we're going to be hungry, so just plan ahead. Because it's rich in iron, often deficient in women on low calorie diets, spirulina is ideal support for any diet. Best of all, it helps us to lighten up and make the switch from a bulky diet to lighter, more powerful foods.

How about fasting? Can a person live on spirulina alone?

I don't suggest living on one food, not even spirulina. I believe a biodiverse diet is best for good health. There are times when I take only spirulina with water or juice - when I fast 3 to 7 days once or twice a year. Fasting one day a week is common practice in traditional societies and religions. Going without food for three days or longer allows the body to cleanse and renew itself. In the late 1970s, one of the first discoveries was spirulina's value in fasting. This easy-to-digest food provides energy and stamina for work and play, while making cleansing much easier and more effective.

Is spirulina good for pets and other animals?

Yes. Walk into any pet store and you'll find it's a popular supplement for fish, birds and pets. In fact, much of the global spirulina production is consumed by aquaculture raised fish and prawns, tropical fish, ornamental birds, horses and even cats and dogs. In the 1970s, the first use was enhancing the beautiful colors in fancy koi carp. Then fish and prawn farmers discovered it increased growth rates, survival, color, and reduced medications. Today, spirulina is in most premium aquarium feeds.

Zoos feed their flamingos a spirulina diet, like the millions of pink flamingos living on it in East African lakes. Ornamental bird breeders use it to enhance color, health and fertility. Tiny amounts in diets of young turkeys and chickens builds disease resistance, reducing the need for antibiotics. In reptiles, it improves skin gloss and disease resistance. For thoroughbred racehorses, it improves speed and recovery.

If you give spirulina to your dog or cat, you'll notice healthier skin, lustrous coat and fresher breath. Older animals may regain their flexibility. It's not unusual for a pet owner to ask: "Is spirulina good for me, too?"

Well, the uses and benefits of spirulina seem much clearer now. Yet, there is public confusion about algae. What's the difference between spirulina, chlorella and wild blue green algae?

There are hundreds of kinds of microscopic algae. Chlorella is a green algae. Spirulina (scientifically known as Arthrospira platensis) is a blue-green algae. Both are known to be safe and nutritious whole foods, consumed by millions of people over the past 20 years. Their safety is backed by hundreds of scientific studies. Both are cultivated in pure cultures at specially designed algaefarms.

Many other kinds of algae grow wild and uncontrolled in lakes and waterways, such as the blue-green algae aphanizomenon and microcystis. They bloom on whatever nutrients or pollutants are available. Some algae, like microcystis, are toxic, just like some land plants and mushrooms. One problem harvesting wild algae like aphanizomenon, popularly called blue-green algae, is that it can be contaminated with toxic algae like microcystis.

It's important to realize the big advantage in growing a pure culture of safe spirulina in a controlled environment like Earthrise Farms. You can be assured it's pure and safe all the way from the living ponds to the consumer.

How can spirulina claim to be ecologically cultivated, certified pesticide free and certified organic?

Cultivation at Earthrise Farms is Earth-friendly: it does not cause pollution, soil erosion or water contamination. No preservatives, no stabilizers, no irradiation. People are concerned about pesticides in their fruits and vegetables. Spirulina is grown free of pesticides. Every lot is tested. Independent labs have not detected any of 66 environmental pesticide residues, so it is certified pesticide free. A state agency certified that Earthrise Farms meets guidelines set by the California Organic Foods Act of 1990. Grown in accordance with these guidelines, spirulina is certified organic.

In your book, Earth Food Spirulina, you say spirulina has resource advantages of land, water and energy? How does growing it save fertile land and soil?

Spirulina is more than 60% protein, yielding 20 times more protein per acre than soybeans and over 200 times more than beef. One kilo of corn protein causes 22 kilos of topsoil loss. One kilo of beef protein causes 145 kilos loss. Growing spirulina causes no soil erosion, and does not even need fertile land.

And what about spirulina cultivation's evergy efficiency?

At Earthrise Farms, water is recycled back to the ponds after harvesting. Growing ponds are sealed, so very little water seeps through the ground. The only significant water loss is through evaporation. Spirulina protein uses 25% the water as soy, 17% as corn and only 2% the water required for beef protein.

And energy efficiency?

Spirulina requires less energy input per kilo than soy, corn or beef, including solar and generated energy. Its energy efficiency is 5 times higher than soy, 2 times higher than corn, and over 100 times higher than beef.

How much carbon dioxide does spirulina consume, and how much oxygen does it produce?

Trees are the best land plants for absorbing atmospheric carbon dioxide. They fix from one to four tons of carbon per hectare per year. Spirulina is even more efficient. In the California desert, spirulina fixes 6.3 tons of carbon per hectare per year, and produces 16.8 tons of oxygen.

So these are the reasons why you believe algae is both good for you and good for our planet.

Spirulina can help restore our lives. It's the next best thing to eating sunlight! Eat algae and bring light into your own cells. Take a few tablets a day and embark on a new path. Eat less and get more from nutrient dense food. Consume less and live lighter on the Earth. Magnified by millions of people, life begins to change. This is a magnificent legacy for our next generations.

However, simply eating wild algae won't transform our planet. There are only a few lakes in the world where wild algae can be harvested safely for food. But cultivating algae will make a difference. Algae harvests sunlight, transforming light to living matter more efficiently. By growing algae, less of our planet's fertile surface is needed to convert sunlight into food. We can help stop cutting the last forests to grow food. By using spirulina for our personal health, we become part of the solution to improve our planetary health.

 

[gear101]

Tasty Green Recipes

Morning Smoothie
Blend 1 tablespoon spirulina in 2 cups of fruit juice (apple, orange, pineapple, peach or blend).

For thickness add fruit (banana, berries, apple, peach, orange, pear). For extra nuttiness add almonds or sunflower seed. For more flavors, add vanilla or lime to suit your taste.
Mix well in a blender. Makes 2 servings.

Veggie Cocktail
Blend 1 tablespoons spirulina in 2 cups of vegetable juice (carrot, tomato, celery or blend).

For thickness add vegetables. For extra nuttiness add almonds or sunflower seed. For flavors, add herbs and spices (parsley, dill weed, cayenne, horseradish) to suit your taste.
Mix well in a blender. Makes 2 servings.

 

[gear101]

don't know if this info was here or not.. but good stuff

 

[Mick-G]

Good read. I was using greens but switch to Spirulina. I put it in my am protein shakes. Not only is it a good phyto-nutrient, but is great for complexion.

 

[liftsiron]

Thanks looks like a very good source of nutrients.

 

[Thate]

where do you get yours from Gear101?

 

[gear101]

right from the farm

http://www.greensuperfood.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=SP454G&CartID=0

 

[gear101]

http://www.greensuperfood.com/Spirulina_Natural_s/1.htm

 

[Thate]

anybody ever use this stuff?

if so how was it?

 

[liftsiron]

I don't think you feel anything from it. It just supplies a lot of nutrients.

 

[clutchitalian]

interesting.......