Spirulina 30 capsules YAMAMOTO

Spirulina algae is considered a true "superfood," rich in highly bioavailable nutrients. It is even administered to astronauts during their missions, as well as being commonly used by athletes and vegans.

Spirulina (Arthrospira), contrary to popular belief, is not an algae but a cyanobacterium, a prokaryotic, photoautotrophic organism, blue-green in color, spiral-shaped, that lives in freshwater but is found in very few areas of the world, such as the lakes of the Mexican plateau where there is a high concentration of mineral salts: sodium bicarbonate, potassium salts, magnesium and selenium. Its use, however, has roots and origins in ancient times and populations; in fact, in Mexico, in the 16th century, the Aztecs collected it from Lake Texcoco, and in Chad it has been consumed since the 9th century. In recent years, spirulina has gained much fame, also thanks to the nominations it received from the UN (1974) and the WHO, which, respectively, called it "Food of the Future" and "Best Food of the 21st Century". More recently, NASA has turned the spotlight on this micro-algae, including it in the astronauts' diet. Thanks to its characteristics and properties, spirulina cultivation has been included in numerous global projects aimed at combating malnutrition in developing countries. A 2016 study published in Maternal and Pediatric Nutrition involving 87 malnourished and anemic children in Gaza demonstrated that spirulina supplementation for three months improved several growth factors, such as weight and height, and increased iron, ferritin, and hemoglobin levels. Also in 2016, the government of the Indian state of Karnataka, in collaboration with JSW Energy, established a program to provide spirulina to malnourished children. The program's impact can be seen on the JSW website, which reported a 46% reduction in malnutrition among children, pregnant women, and breastfeeding mothers.

Its nutritional properties are truly astonishing. Spirulina is considered a "complete" food, with unique nutritional characteristics, containing a very high concentration of highly bioavailable amino acids, minerals (especially iron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, and selenium), vitamins (B complex, folic acid, vitamins A, C, and E), and essential fatty acids. This concentration of elements makes it exceptionally nutritious and restorative, and our bodies can absorb it quickly and easily.

Its very high protein content (65-70 grams per 100 grams of food, compared to 20-25 grams for a lean cut of meat) makes it a primary source of proteins known as "biliproteins," or vegetable proteins that have been pre-digested by the plant itself and which, thanks to this, allow for better assimilation, making it particularly suitable for those following a vegetarian or vegan diet.

Thanks to its excellent vitamin content and precious antioxidant properties, spirulina-based supplements are also very popular among athletes (especially endurance athletes) and among those who want to achieve their ideal weight.
Athletes can benefit from the high biotin and ferridoxin content, which inhibits the formation of lactic acid during particularly intense physical effort, while the richness of amino acids it contains will support muscle mass.

Those following diets for weight control and loss can benefit from its properties, as phenylalanine (3%) acts on the appetite center, reducing hunger pangs and promoting a feeling of satiety. Furthermore, its use during controlled low-calorie diets helps maintain a certain nutritional balance, without causing weakness.

Its widespread use also includes children, convalescents, and those suffering from eating disorders (bulimia, anorexia). Spirulina helps compensate for typical nutritional depletion of varying degrees, as it fills any vitamin or mineral deficiencies and may even help alleviate the onset of bulimic attacks. Its unique cell wall, free of cellulose, makes it highly digestible.

Supplementation is particularly important for pregnant and breastfeeding women, due to the presence of high quantities of calcium, iron and folic acid in a highly bioavailable form.

Because of all these beneficial properties, spirulina continues to be widely used not only by athletes or convalescents, or in vegan and vegetarian diets. Regular consumption improves fat oxidation and the concentration of glutathione (GSH), a powerful antioxidant essential for maintaining immune and muscular health and reducing the risk of injury. Studies have confirmed its hypotensive effect, which appears to be caused by increased expression of nitric oxide synthase at the endothelial level, which dilates blood vessels and protects against cardiovascular risk. Spirulina intake by people with hypertension should be carefully evaluated by a doctor, due to its high sodium content. It has a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, helping reduce bad cholesterol (LDL) and triglycerides, while promoting an increase in good cholesterol (HDL). Some studies have demonstrated spirulina's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity in vivo. In particular, spirulina supplementation works by reducing the concentration of IL-6, the protein that signals cellular inflammation. Its antioxidant properties have also recently emerged in the beauty field. Indeed, spirulina is an ally in the health of skin, hair, and nails, and is also finding application in anti-aging, anti-acne, anti-dandruff, and regenerative treatments. Furthermore, spirulina can be considered a true nourishment for dull and lifeless skin, providing hydration and helping the skin regain its normal hydrolipidic balance.