Spirulina

Current uses

Spirulina

Certainly a better name than blue-green algae by which it is known in Australia where it clogs up our waterways. Maybe we should farm it. Anyway it is an amazing food, sometimes referred to as a "superfood" because of all the goodies it contains. (refer also to statements below)

quoting from the spirulina site....

"The World's Healthiest Food Rich in Beta Carotene and Phytonutrients

"This tiny aquatic plant offers 60% all-vegetable protein, essential vitamins and phytonutrients such as the antioxidant beta carotene, the rare essential fatty acid GLA, sulfolipids, glycolipids and polysaccharides.

• World's highest beta carotene food reduces long term health risks.
  Spirulina beta carotene is ten times more concentrated than carrots. So even if you don't eat the recommended 4 to 9 servings of fruits and vegetables every day (most people eat only 1-2, including french fries), get your natural beta carotene insurance from spirulina to help support your body's defenses.
• 60% easy-to-digest vegetable protein without the fat and cholesterol of meat.
  People are eating less meat and dairy protein because they want to lower fat, cholesterol, and chemicals in their diet. Spirulina is the highest protein food with all the essential amino acids and has only a few calories to keep your waistline where you want it.
• A rare essential fatty acid is a key to health.
  Gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) in mother's milk helps develop healthy babies. Studies show nutritional deficiencies can block GLA production in your body, so a good dietary source of GLA can be important. Spirulina is the only other whole food with GLA.
• Iron for women and children's health.
  Iron is essential to build a strong system, yet is the most common mineral deficiency. Spirulina is rich in iron, magnesium and trace minerals, and is easier to absorb than iron supplements.
• High in Vitamin B-12 and B Complex.
  Spirulina is the highest source of B-12, essential for healthy nerves and tissue, especially for vegetarians.
• Unusual phytonutrients for health and cleansing.
  Scientists are discovering the benefits of polysaccharides, sulfolipids & glycolipids, and the rainbow of natural pigments that give spirulina a deep green color. Green (chlorophyll), blue (phycocyanin) and orange (carotenoids) colors collect the sun's energy and power growth. Chlorophyll is a natural cleanser and is often referred to as nature's green magic.