This very trendy alga is found at most health food stores, usually in powder or tablet form. Spirulina, the dry biomass of a member of the cyanobacteria family, is known by the scientific name of arthrospira platensis. It lives in fresh water at sub-tropical latitudes and is characterized by its remarkable spiral shape.
Its 60% protein and high fibre content are the reason why it is recommended for individuals on vegan or vegetarian diets, as well as those looking to curb their appetite (due to the presence of phenylalanine) while energizing and strengthening their body at the same time.
Spirulina is rich in vitamin A, calcium, magnesium, iron, and omega-6 acids.
How to intake it? Take it as a supplement, and also add it to your food in powdered form. Spirulina has a mild flavour, and its green, chlorophyll-derived colour of this blue-green alga will give your dishes a new twist. It can even be added to bread, pasta, or sweet doughs.
Spirulina and lemon juice combinations
Make a tasty spirulina and lemon juice dressing for salads, vegetables, grilled meats and fish by emulsifying 6 tablespoons of lemon juice with 1 tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil and 1 tablespoon of spirulina powder.
Whenever you make spinach soup – or any other soup – enhance it by adding a teaspoon of spirulina just before serving it. You can dissolve the spirulina in a bit of water before-hand or mix it directly into the soup.
If your nails break easily, try the following spirulina and lemon-based remedy. In a bowl, combine 1 tablespoon of spirulina powder with 3 tablespoons of water and 1 tablespoon of lemon juice. Mix thoroughly and then soak your nails in it for 15 minutes.
Among the fastest and most efficient ways to use a lemon/spirulina combo is to dissolve the alga in beverages.
Start with:
- 1 tablespoon spirulina powder (around 3 grams)
- 6 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 glass of water
Mix all the ingredients and drink it chilled to replenish your mineral salt levels, especially after a workout session.
If you enjoy cocktails (have you discovered our amazing selection yet?), add ¼ tsp of powdered spirulina to your margarita mix.
If you prefer herbal infusions, add a teaspoon of spirulina to a cup of lemon tea , or to your morning water and lemon juice-based detox solution.
You can also add spirulina to this wholesome isotonic drink to shorten recovery times after jogging, bicycling, or training at the gym.
Note: French researchers found that spirulina grown in less than optimal conditions might absorb toxic substances such as cyanotoxins, bacteria, and heavy metals, which may trigger allergic reactions. Therefore, buy only organic spirulina, consume it wisely, and stick to the recommended dosage. Spirulina is best avoided during pregnancy.
