Among superfoods, one is constantly described as a nutritional powerhouse. Spirulina, for that matter, is indeed a treasure trove of nutrients. Often praised by athletes as an exceptional source of protein, it is also known for its antioxidant properties. But can it be effective against cellulite? Let’s take a closer look at this blue-green microalgae.
What is spirulina?
Spirulina (its scientific name being Arthrospira platensis) is a cyanobacterium – sometimes called blue algae. Before becoming the “superfood” we know today, it was the traditional food of the Kanembou people, who harvested it from the shores of Lake Chad. Indeed, spirulina develops in warm, brackish, and shallow waters. It also has a long history in the food industry: first used as a dietary supplement for livestock, it was later used as a food colorant, being rich in phycocyanin (the blue pigment that gives it its color). In the 2000s it began to gain popularity: it became an alternative to malnutrition in disadvantaged countries, due to its high content of proteins, vitamins, and micronutrients. This good reputation earned it the favor of laboratories and food professionals. Spirulina was gradually introduced as a dietary supplement to consumers and achieved great success.
What are the benefits of spirulina?
To determine the virtues of this miracle food, we must examine its composition.
Spirulina is first and foremost 60% protein, more than any other food, and contains 8 amino acids (some of which are essential, meaning the body cannot produce them). It is therefore an excellent food for maintaining muscle mass. It is particularly favored by athletes, as well as vegetarians and vegans.
But spirulina also contains vitamins:
- vitamin A, which contributes to skin health, vision, and immune system;
- B vitamins, beneficial to the nervous system, immunity, and physiological functions;
- vitamin E, antioxidant;
- vitamin K, which promotes blood clotting.
Finally, the algae contains minerals essential to health, such as iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, selenium, copper, zinc, chromium, and potassium. Thus spirulina is beneficial to skin and hair, skin, and nails, the neuromuscular system, energy metabolism, and blood pressure.
How can spirulina help with cellulite?
But how can spirulina consumption impact the factors that make up cellulite?
Through its slimming action: it is hypoglycemic, as it captures some of the sugars from your diet and prevents fat storage. This phenomenon is partly due to its chromium content, known for its appetite-suppressing effect. This same chromium also helps lower bad cholesterol in favor of good cholesterol. Spirulina is therefore an excellent food for preventing fat storage.
Through its detox action: spirulina is a bio-accumulator, which means it can capture toxins and heavy metals. Regular consumption could therefore have a detoxifying effect on the body. Moreover, rich in magnesium and potassium, it is draining and diuretic, and prevents water retention by restoring the body’s fluid balance. Interesting in case of aqueous cellulite!
Through its skin action: spirulina greatly contributes to improving skin quality, both through its antioxidant content and vitamins A and E. It neutralizes free radicals responsible for skin aging, while boosting collagen production. It is therefore a very good anti-aging agent, but can also prove effective against fibrous cellulite.
Through its vascular action: spirulina is beneficial to vein and lymph health. Rich in vitamin K, it contributes to blood clotting stability, for more fluid blood circulation.
Through its action on muscle mass: packed with proteins that are particularly well-assimilated by the body, spirulina not only has an appetite-suppressing effect, which encourages eating less and maintaining longer satiety, but also allows muscles to develop. And dense muscle mass means faster metabolism and less fat storage.
How to consume spirulina?
First, you need to consider the quality of the product, as you can find anything on the internet. It’s better to choose a quality product, preferably organic and urea-free and grown in France.
Next, the question of form arises. You can find spirulina in powder or flake form, to add to your meals. But for those who don’t like its flavor (an algae taste), it can be taken as a dietary supplement, in capsules or tablets.
As for the amount, it is recommended not to exceed 3 g per day. Moreover, gradual intake is preferred: start with 1 g per day the first week, then increase gradually. Finally, spirulina consumption is best considered as a 3-week to one-month course.
Finally, there are some contraindications. People taking anticoagulant medication, those with a heart condition, suffering from hemochromatosis, gout, or algae allergies and children should not consume it.