7 Benefits of Spirulina: The Blue-Green Algae Superfood Supplement 

Here's what you need to know about spirulina, its benefits, and how to use it.

Spirulina was originally classified as a plant but has since been reclassified1 as bacteria. There are a number of spirulina species, but three are the most studied1 as nutritional supplements and possible therapeutic remedies: Spirulina platensis (Arthrospira platensis), Spirulina maxima (Arthrospira maxima), and Spirulina fusiformis (Arthrospira fusiformis).

So what makes spirulina so great from a nutrition standpoint? Well, first of all, it contains high levels of many nutrients, including calcium, potassium, B vitamins, and iron. Here’s the nutritional breakdown for a single tablespoon of spirulina2:

Spirulina is full of nutrients that are essential to keeping our bodies functioning the way they're supposed to.* You can get all of these nutrients from other sources, of course, but spirulina, as a one-stop shop for so many of them at once, is the kind of substance the word "superfood" is meant to describe.

Spirulina has also been touted as an incredible source of plant-based protein—it's between 55 and 70% protein. Spirulina can be a great addition to a vegan diet considering its iron and B12 content, which may naturally be low in these diets as well.

Oxidative stress (also known as oxidative damage) can wreak havoc on fatty structures in the body. Because spirulina is such a powerful antioxidant, it can help to prevent LDL (low-density lipoprotein—the "bad" cholesterol) from becoming oxidized9.*  

Researchers believe these benefits are thanks to spirulina's positive impact on the body's production of nitric oxide, which helps blood vessels relax and dilate, thereby allowing blood to flow more quickly and easily.*

Spirulina might also help promote blood sugar balance.* Animal studies have shown a beneficial effect12 of spirulina on blood sugar balance.* And one small human study of 25 patients with type 2 diabetes found that 2 grams of spirulina daily positively affected blood sugar levels13.* More research is needed to confirm these results, but the science is promising.

Spirulina's benefits can also extend to seasonal allergy sufferers.* Studies have shown that spirulina supplementation can slow the production of cytokines14, which play a role in the immune response and inflammatory process.* In a study of 127 people suffering from allergic rhinitis, supplementing with 2 grams of spirulina a day helped reduce common rhinitis symptoms15, like nasal congestion and sneezing.*

Spirulina has also been studied16 in elderly patients17 for its ability to enhance endurance18 and muscle strength.* This benefit is also possible among younger people and athletes, although more research is needed for a conclusive answer.

Like any "super" thing, spirulina is incredibly strong and resilient; it can grow in extreme conditions that are inhospitable to many other water-dwelling organisms. Generally, however, it's grown in man-made or natural lakes. Once it's collected, it's freeze- or sun-dried.

Overall, spirulina definitely earns its reputation as a superfood, and any way you decide to take it has the potential to help support your health across the board.