Blue-green Algae: Health Benefits, Uses and Product Picks

So you’ve been told to  “eat your greens,” right?  But what about your algae?

Yes, it may seem a strange thought, the consumption of prokaryotic microorganisms,  but blue-green algae, in organic form, is a wonderful nutrient-rich food.  When we talk about blue-green algae, we are referring to a large and diverse group of simple, plant-like organisms found in tropical or subtropical waters that have a high-salt content and some large fresh water lakes.   The natural color of these algae can give bodies of water a dark-green appearance and the the altitude, temperature, and sun exposure dramatically influence the types and variety growing in the water.

So why do we eat it?  Well, the indigenous people of Japan and China have eaten it for thousands of years for its nutritional properties.  Blue-green algae is a great source of plant-based dietary protein (one particular type, Spirulina is made up of 60% protein!), plenty of B-vitamins, essential fatty acids, and iron.  It is also a powerhouse supplier of chlorophyll, a natural phytochemical that gives plants its green pigment, and  has demonstrated the ability to reduce the damage from carcinogenic substances, and to have antioxidant effect in the body.

Some say consuming these sea weeds can aid in weight loss, and treat  everything from attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), to diabetes, stress and anxiety, to PMS.  It’s also suggested that these algae can help boost immune function, improve memory, and assist in proper digestive health and detoxification.

So what are you waiting for?  Start popping these green power pills, or nab some powder and start sprinkling it on your food or stir it into any beverage to pack a powerful (nutrition) punch!

1. Source Naturals Blue-Green Algae

The algae in these tablets is wildcrafted and harvested in the prime upper regions of Upper Klamath Lake, Oregon.