The Tiny Food That Makes You Feel Super
You’re conquering the world, but it’s really hard to feel super if you don’t have enough protein and iron in your diet. You might feel tired and worn down. We know of something for your inner super hero! Spirulina- it’s an easy way to get more protein and iron into your diet. Spirulina sounds like a magical potion from a far-away galaxy and its emerald green color makes it look even more magical. Don’t worry it’s not magic- it’s just a really cool, micro-algae that’s packed with iron, protein and a whole bunch of nutrients. Sounds like a pretty neat little seaweed, doesn’t it?
Spirulina and Iron
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies worldwide and almost 10% of American women are iron deficient. Even with all the iron fortified cereals, constant reminders to get our iron and access to lots of leafy green vegetables, many of us are iron deficient.
Iron does lots of work in the body including its role as a component of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin brings oxygen to every organ in your body. It’s pretty important.
What can iron deficiency lead to?
- Fatigue
- Low energy
- Anemia
- Brain fog
- Paleness
- Dizziness
- Leg cramps
- Restless leg syndrome
- Lowered immunity
Did you know that a tablespoon of spirulina has more iron than a steak? Not a bad punch of iron for a tiny seaweed! A tablespoon of spirulina has 11% of the recommended daily average of iron. Unlike other plant sources, the iron found in spirulina is highly bio-available allowing for easy digestion and absorption. This makes it a lot easier for vegans, vegetarians and other who don’t eat a lot of meat!
Spirulina and Protein
Protein is a building block of our food system. It’s been a piece of the food triangle and is now a good portion of the food plate, so everyone knows its important to include in your diet. It can be hard to get in your diet if you are trying to incorporate more plant-based meals or looking to reduce fat-laden meats.
What can protein deficiency lead to?
- Muscle loss or difficulty building muscle
- Brain fog
- Anxiety
- Bone weakness
- Overeating and difficulty being full
Ounce for ounce, spirulina packs quite a punch against meat products for protein content. The tiny seaweed is 60-70% protein. It’s one of the best plant sources for protein and is great for those avoiding animal based proteins. Spirulina contains all the 9 essential amino acids which are needed for whole protein. One tablespoon of spirulina has 6 grams of protein in it.
More Spirulina Facts
Ways to include spirulina superfood in your diet:
Spirulina is a pretty cool emerald green food, but it does taste like pond water, so you have to be creative when incorporating it in your diet. Luckily that tablespoon goes a long way!
- Add to your favorite smoothie like the Shamrock Smoothie or the Happy Hormone Chunky Monkey Smoothie
- Mix in with your guacamole or other savory dips
- Add it to this salad dressing
- Or Just toss on top of your salad- like this Roasted Broccoli Salad Recipe
- Use in a pesto
- Add to energy bites
- Mix with lemonade
Spirulina Super Seaweed
This food that can make you feel super can be found right here on earth. You don’t need to go to Krypton. You do want to make sure you are getting it from a good source. So, do your research or check out our favorite brand.
Not only is spirulina full of protein and iron it is loaded with protein, potassium, calcium, magnesium, niacin, and B vitamins. Spirulina is full of antioxidants and builds your immune system. It’s known for detoxifying metals and radiation, helps in preventing cancer, lowers blood pressure, and some say it’s very energizing. With all these benefits- you can see why we love spirulina. It makes us feel super and can make you feel super too. It’s so powerful we would get it a cape, if it weren’t so tiny.