If you’ve been noticing a frenzy of indigo blue-hued lattes and sapphire-toned smoothie bowls taking over Instagram lately, you’re not alone. So, what exactly is the buzzy ingredient, and does it do more for our health than meets the eye? We’re unpacking all things spirulina and why you just may become a true blue fan.

What is spirulina?

Always on the lookout for hair-healthy superfoods, spirulina is one of the most potent nutrient-dense superfoods available. Spirulina is a dried algae powder that is incredibly high in protein, antioxidants, and essential amino acids and includes vitamins B1, 2, and 3, iron, magnesium, iron, and potassium.

There are many different types of algae, with spirulina and chlorella being the most well-known and popular supplements.

Benefits of spirulina

Helps flush typical toxins from the body

The wellness and beauty community is often touting a new way to cleanse, and we’ve tried everything from drinking activated charcoal to lemony cayenne concoctions for our health. However, consider spirulina if you're looking to swap a prolonged cleanse for something more manageable. 

Spirulina functions as a magnet for everyday toxins in the body and is incredible at flushing them out. It's such a powerful detoxifier that it's sometimes used as a naturally occurring water filter. 

It works so well because it contains proteins and peptides that are particularly good at binding to the common toxins. That way they are flushed out of your system.

One simple way to take advantage of the benefits of spirulina is to incorporate a small amount into your daily health regimen. We especially love Hair La Vie’s Foundation Collagen Elixir, especially if you're on the go. The quick boost of balancing ingredients like spirulina, ginger, and prebiotics support hair and skin health, and it’s super easy to just throw in a bottle with some water and go. 

Supports the immune system

If you feel like your immune system needs a little bit of help, try mixing some spirulina into a warm beverage instead of taking vitamin C, a go-to for immunity. Spirulina contains a potent and powerful antioxidant called phycocyanin, which can help fight off everyday oxidative damage, giving your immune system some needed support. Phycocyanin is also what gives spirulina its naturally vibrant color.

May support weight management

Hangry is no joke, especially when you consider how spiked blood sugar plummeting leads to mood changes. If you’re in the know, then you’re likely looking for naturally derived ingredients that can stabilize blood sugar. Look no further than your blue buddy, spirulina.

Secondly, while spirulina is full of nutrients, it only has 20 calories per tablespoon. It also contains an amino acid that has been linked to curbing sugar cravings.

Helps with endurance

Are you a gym junkie? Toss spirulina into your hydration and protein drink routine.

One aspect and benefit of spirulina is its ability to lower body inflammation associated with exercise, which can affect blood flow and circulation. This can increase endurance for athletes and aid with muscle recovery and everyday fatigue. One of the other reasons is the high amount of protein in spirulina helps with working out and athleticism.

That antioxidant effect works in favor of blood pressure, too, by helping increase blood flow by increasing the production of nitric oxide, which helps widen blood vessels. This allows blood to flow easier, and the heart doesn't have to work as hard.

How to pick a safe spirulina

As with anything, there is a spectrum of quality with spirulina. Pay close attention to the source of your purveyor or brand. You want to make sure the product is harvested from pure water to avoid potential toxicity and adverse health effects.

You'll want to make sure to stick with clean, non-GMO, and gluten-free companies, which will limit cross-contamination a lot. This is such a trendy product that you want to research before buying and make sure the company's testing standards are transparent and up to par. 

Conclusion

Who said healthy had to be dull? If the deep cobalt, vivid teal, and surreal cerulean tones of this magical superfood weren’t enough to entice, then we hope the knowledge of spirulina’s long list of health benefits will. Try one of our favorite dreamy Foundation Collagen Elixir smoothies first thing in the morning. Whether you are sipping an elixir on the go, or even baking into muffins, don’t sleep on this health trend and include this incredible azure algae in your daily routine.