Spirulina: ancient and modern superfood

This extraordinary cyanobacterium is prized for its unique nutritional content.Spirulina is a complete protein source, containing all essential amino acids, as well as B vitamins, iron, calcium, magnesium, and essential fatty acids. Among its numerous benefits, spirulina stands out for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, thanks to phycocyanin, a pigment that combats oxidative stress and reduces inflammation. It strengthens the immune system through its vitamins and minerals, helps improve cholesterol levels by reducing "bad" LDL cholesterol and increasing "good" HDL cholesterol, and aids in stabilizing blood sugar levels, making it beneficial for those with type 2 diabetes. Preliminary studies also suggest potential anti-cancer effects and the ability to remove heavy metals from the body, opening exciting possibilities for medical research.

Beyond its health benefits, spirulina is a sustainable choice for the environment. Its cultivation requires limited resources in terms of water and land compared to traditional crops and does not produce significant greenhouse gas emissions. These factors make it ideal not only for combating malnutrition in developing countries but also for projects related to space exploration, where it has already been tested as a food source by NASA. Spirulina is available in various forms, including powder, tablets, capsules, and flakes, which can be easily integrated into daily diets. It can be found in herbal stores, pharmacies, specialized supermarkets, and online, but it is important to choose high-quality, certified products free from additives.

In the kitchen, spirulina lends itself to multiple uses. It can be mixed into smoothies, yogurt, or soups or used as a topping for salads and cold dishes. A simple and tasty recipe could be an energizing smoothie with almond milk, banana, and a teaspoon of spirulina, or a quinoa salad with avocado and nuts sprinkled with spirulina flakes. Thanks to its versatility and numerous benefits, spirulina has become a reference point for those seeking to improve their health and contribute to a more sustainable future.