Your new year’s resolution is to improve your health. Where to start?
What if you could take a single nutritional supplement that can improve eyesight, liver function and your memory? There is such a product, with a funny name: spirulina.
It is a blue-green algae that is rich in protein and nutrients and has been used as a food source in Africa for centuries. Today, spirulina powders and capsules are popular for their rich antioxidant properties and other therapeutic benefits.
Spirulina and Eye Health
Spirulina is a rich source of zeaxanthin, a substance similar to carotenes, the compounds in carrots that improve eyesight. When taken in proper amounts, the spirulina may reduce risk of cataracts and other age-related eye problems. Studies have shown a connection between adequate zeaxanthin and a lower incidence of eye problems in older persons.
Spirulina and Liver Health
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease is on the rise. It is often a side effect of obesity and poor diet that occurs when too much fat in the liver combines with some forms of stress. What should you do? Lose weight and change your diet to decrease lipid levels. Additionally, spirulina may support a boost in fatty acid oxidation. In animal studies, spirulina significantly curbs non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
A Chinese study of mice showed that spirulina and vitamin C could reduce enzymes that damage the liver.
Spirulina and Brain Health
You may have heard of the “blood-brain barrier.” It is a separation of the brain and spinal cord from the other organs. This natural mechanism keeps infections from reaching your most vulnerable tissues. Your brain contains special cells, called microglia, that help defend your nervous system. It’s the job of these special cells to constantly search your central nervous system for plaque, damaged neurons and other harmful agents. When harmful agents are found, the special microglial cells spring into action. However, these microglia may cause inflammation and degenerative brain diseases. Spirulina may resist this inflammatory process.
Also, research at Buddhist Dalin Tzu-Chi General Hospital in Taiwan found that spirulina may fight memory loss.
And, the rich antioxidant properties and therapeutic benefits are not just for people. Preliminary research in Australia has shown that livestock feed that’s been enhanced with spirulina improves growth, fertility and the aesthetic and nutritional quality of farm animals…
Read More: globalhealingcenter.com
