Spirulina
Spirulina is a single cell, fresh and saltwater blue-green alga widely considered a "superfood" because of its excellent nutritional content and health benefits.
It is exceptionally nutrient-dense - naturally high in protein while containing a large variety of vitamins and minerals.
Spirulina has been consumed for hundreds of years, dating back to the 16th century where it was documented that native African tribes would consume sun-dried Spirulina. Before that, the Aztecs used it as an endurance booster and to treat various diseases.
Great variety of Essential Amino Acids (EAAs)
Spirulina is a source of complete protein, which is unique for protein from a plant source. It contains all essential amino acids, with 18 amino acids in total (out of a possible 22). It also has a relatively high biological value (BV) of 75%, ranking it better than soy protein.
Naturally high in beta carotene
Spirulina is naturally very high in beta carotene, which the body can convert to vitamin A. Vitamin A is vital for the health of skin, eyes and teeth, hair and bones while also assisting immune health. However, too much vitamin A can be toxic. The advantage of supplementing with beta carotene is that the body will only convert as much as it needs and discard the excess.
Jam-packed full of antioxidants
Research suggests that Spirulina has antioxidant and inflammation-fighting properties. The main active antioxidant in Spirulina is phycocyanin, which can fight free radicals and inhibit the production of inflammatory signalling molecules, providing impressive antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
It helps the body with energy production
Spirulina is very high in B1, B2, and B3 vitamins. All three of these vitamins play an essential role in energy production, namely breaking down carbohydrates, sugars, and fats and turning the food energy into an energy source the body can use.
A 2014 study also pointed to improving muscular strength and endurance and reducing fatigue markers from supplementing with Spirulina, which may be the reason why the ancient Aztecs gave it to marathon runners to help keep their energy levels high.
A truly impressive nutritional profile
Gram for gram spirulina may be the most nutrient-dense food on earth. In a single 5g serve, Spirulina has:
19 calories
Protein: 3.1g
Fats: 0.3g
Carbohydrates: 0.8g
Vitamin B1 (thiamine): Helps convert nutrients into energy - 13% of the RDA
Vitamin B2 (riboflavin): Necessary for energy production, cell function and fat metabolism - 18% of the RDA
Vitamin B3 (niacin): Necessary for fatty acid synthesis - 4% of the RDA
Iron: Helps provide oxygen to muscles - 11% of the RDA
It also contains magnesium, potassium and manganese.
How to get the most out of Spirulina
Spirulina is a complete protein source; however, it is relatively low in the amino acid cysteine. For this reason, Spirulina combines well with whey protein to better round out the amino acid profile because whey is naturally high in cysteine. In addition, Spirulina's natural nutritional density far outweighs that of whey protein, making it an excellent combo.
Best way to use Spirulina
Spirulina has a bitter taste, so people often mix it with yogurts, juices, and smoothies to improve its flavour.
Directions & Ingredients
Dosage
Consume 5g of Spirulina one to two times a day. Many users have larger doses
A flat teaspoon equals 3g of Spirulina.
Spirulina Directions
Combine powder with liquid and consume immediately.
For weight loss purposes many people find taking Spirulina before meals beneficial.
Due to Spirulina's very strong taste, many people find blending with juice more pleasant than water.
Ingredients
Spirulina.
Storage
Keep well sealed, protect from moisture, light and heat.
Further Reading on Spirulina
Frequently asked questions about Spirulina
How does Spirulina taste?
Bulk Nutrients' Spirulina is unflavoured and is generally considered to be bitter
What is Spirulina made from?
Spirulina is a natural extract
Are samples available of Spirulina?
Sorry we do not provide samples of Spirulina
How is Bulk Nutrients' Spirulina packaged?
Spirulina is packaged in resealable 250g pouches
Is the packaging for Spirulina recyclable?
Yes! The bag can be recycled by placing it in the REDcycle drop off point bins.
If you'd like more information, check this article which breaks down how Bulk's various products' packaging can be recycled.
Spirulina Nutrition Panels
| Spirulina Nutrition Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Servings per 250g package: 50 Servings size: 5g | ||
| Average Quantity Per Serving | Average Quantity Per 100g | |
| Energy (kj) | 78.5 | 1570 |
| Protein (g) | 3.1 | 62 |
| Fats (g) | 0.3 | 6.6 |
| (saturated) (g) | 0.1 | 2.4 |
| Carbohydrates (g) | 0.8 | 16 |
| (sugars) (g) | 0.2 | 3 |
| Sodium (mg) | 0 | 0.9 |
| Spirulina (g) | 5 | 100 |
| Spirulina Vitamin Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Average Quantity Per Serve 5g | Average Quantity Per 100g | |
| Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) (mg) | 0.15 | 3.0 |
| Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin) (mg) | 0.23 | 4.5 |
| Vitamin B3 (Niacin) (mg) | 0.70 | 14.0 |
| Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic Acid) (mcg) | 0.05 | 1.0 |
| Vitamin B12 (Cobalamin) (mcg) | 17.5 | 350 |
| Vitamin K1 (mcg) | 48.8 | 975 |
| Folate (mcg) | 6.25 | 125 |
| Inositol (mg) | 3.50 | 70 |
| Spirulina Mineral Information | ||
|---|---|---|
| Average Quantity Per Serve 5g | Average Quantity Per 100g | |
| Calcium (mg) | 5.0 | 100.0 |
| Copper (mg) | 0.0 | 0.3 |
| Iron (mg) | 2.0 | 40.0 |
| Magnesium (mg) | 10.3 | 205.0 |
| Manganese (mg) | 0.1 | 2.0 |
| Phosphorous (mg) | 52.5 | 1050 |
| Potassium (mg) | 67.5 | 1350 |
| Selenium (mcg) | 0.3 | 6.5 |
| Zinc (mg) | 0.8 | 17 |
| Chromium (mcg) | 10.0 | 200 |
Formulated Supplementary Sports Food. Not suitable for children under 15 years of age or pregnant women. Should only be used under medical or dietetic supervision. This product is not a sole source of nutrition and should be consumed in conjunction with a nutritious diet and appropriate physical training or exercise program.
Bulk Nutrients is proudly Australian owned and operated with all products developed, blended and packed locally in our facility in Grove, Tasmania, Australia. Find out more!
Spirulina Reviews
