A great source for the elusive B12 (though mineral rich earth is still the best source for B12, though next to impossible to find, making Spirulina the best source due to availability), good source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, C, D, E, K, folic acid, pantothenic acid, biotin, inositol, calcium, magnesium, potassium, phosphorus (is in every cell throughout the body and works with calcium to maintain bone density – especially important for Celiacs who suffer from dental health and osteoporosis), chromium, selenium, and great source for iron (10x higher than normal foods). The phycocyanin in it (blue pigment) combines with iron and other minerals making them more bioavailable (2x more than meats and vegetables).
10g of spirulina provides 23,000 I.U. of beta carotene which the body converts to Vitamin A (also a particularly important vitamin for Celiacs because it helps heal the intestinal tract) and unlike taking Vitamin A supplements (fat soluble, too much can be toxic), when it is your body doing the converting, it automatically stops at the right amount – such a miraculous thing the body is, in its natural form. Beta carotene is a powerful antioxidant that fights free radicals and also reduces the body’s risks to several types of cancer including colon and gastrointestinal tract (which Celiacs are prone to).
A complete protein that delivers all essential amino acids in a highly absorbable form, as well as zeaxanthin/lutein which are important for vision – blindness is actually becoming a bigger and bigger issue.
Low in sodium making this superfood appropriate for salt-restricted diets (90mg per 10g) and it contains no bad cholesterol.
It strengthens the immune system while simultaneously helping the body detoxify.
As a dietician, it’s my #1 helper; as a Celiac, I am in love with the stuff!
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A little side note, if the taste is something that keeps you from drinking it, try this: blender, ice, raw cacao, raw honey (which adds 2000 enzymes to the mix) and you barely taste the green and get even more nutrients than the spirulina alone
About Jaqui Karr
[...] A Superfood for Everyone, Miracle Food for CeliacsHive Health Media (blog)A great source for the elusive B12 (though mineral rich earth is still the best source for B12, though next to impossible to find, making Spirulina the best source due to availability), good source of vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, C, D, E, K, folic acid, … [...]