What happens if you take too much spirulina? Even if you overdose on this superfood, it is unlikely to cause any harm. Worst possible consequences could be bloating, diarrhoea, nausea and cramps.
Who should not take spirulina?
Spirulina is generally safe to use but may cause allergy, headaches, insomnia, muscle pain, and sweating in some. Because of its possible effect on the immune system, spirulina should be avoided in people with autoimmune diseases or on immunosuppressive therapies. Pregnant and nursing people or those with phenylketonuria should also avoid ...
What are the dangers of spirulina?
When consumed in excess, these compounds can present health concerns:
- High intake of protein, chlorophyll and iron may cause gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, nausea or cramps.
- Excess phosphorus can adversely affect the kidneys.
- In high concentrations, manganese may contribute to neurotoxicity.
Is spirulina good or bad?
While spirulina is safe, it’s important to be aware of potential dangers and to get it from a trusted and proven source. Many commercially-available brands of spirulina have low levels of heavy metals that do not fall within an unsafe range, according to a study published in the Saudi Journal of Biological Sciences in 2013.
Does spirulina have any side effects?
Spirulina is a pure nutritional supplement and taking only 50 grams of Spirulina should not lead to any side effects, due to the simple fact it has about 70% of essential protein. However some cases of adverse effects have been reported from its use, such as users experiencing exacerbating skin breakouts, nausea, insomnia or fever.
Is there an overdose of spirulina?
Can I take too much spirulina? Many sources say you can't overdose on spirulina as it's a natural food source, but when taken in excess (as with any foodstuff), it could cause problems. In this case, it could lead to a vitamin A overdose.
How much is too much spirulina?
Tip. A February 2016 study in the Journal of Nutrition Research recommends consuming about 4 grams of spirulina per day. However, it's possible to safely consume about 7 grams per day, and you shouldn't regularly consume more than 15 grams per day.
What happens when you take spirulina everyday?
For example, it can lower total cholesterol, “bad” LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, while raising “good” HDL cholesterol. In a study in 25 people with type 2 diabetes, 2 grams of spirulina per day significantly improved these markers ( 9 ).
How much spirulina should I take daily?
How much Spirulina should you take, and when? As a dietary supplement, the recommended minimum amount is three grams daily – one teaspoon of powder or six 500 mg tablets. Since it is a pure and natural food, you may safely take more, to suit your personal health program.
Does spirulina make you gain weight?
Spirulina Calories and Nutrition It takes an extra 3,500 calories over and above your daily needs to gain a pound. A tablespoon of dried spirulina, which is how you're most likely to find it sold, contains only 20 calories, so it would take quite a bit of spirulina to cause weight gain.
Is spirulina hard on the kidneys?
These researchers, however, go on to suggest that it is not prudent to eat more than 50 g of spirulina daily. The reason they give is that the plant contains a high concentration of nucleic acids, substances related to DNA. When these are metabolized, they create uric acid, which could cause gout or kidney stones.
Who should not take spirulina?
You should avoid spirulina if you take blood thinners or have an autoimmune condition, bleeding disorder, allergies, or PKU. If you're unsure whether this supplement is right for you, consult your doctor.
Can spirulina cause liver damage?
Spirulina has been implicated in isolated case reports in causing clinically apparent liver injury, but the role of spirulina as opposed to other herbal components or contaminants has not been shown. Liver injury due to spirulina must be very rare if it occurs at all.
How long does it take for spirulina to work?
It takes about 1-3 weeks for you to notice a change in energy levels. The results differ from person to person and obviously depend on your condition. Tip; drink plenty of water every day. Most people around normally ask, where can spirulina be found?
Should I take spirulina on an empty stomach?
Should spirulina be taken on an empty stomach? No, you don't necessarily need to take spirulina on an empty stomach. However, if you decide to do so, you can take the supplement in the morning and wait 15-20 minutes before taking any solid food so that your body can absorb the nutrients.
Can spirulina make you sick?
Spirulina is generally considered safe; side effects are usually mild and include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal discomfort, headache, dizziness, and fatigue. However, there are potentially serious risks with using spirulina, including (MedlinePlus, 2019):
Does spirulina help in weight loss?
Is spirulina good for losing weight? Yes, spirulina has been proven to help with weight loss if you also eat healthy and exercise. Spirulina improves metabolism and suppresses appetite.
Why is spirulina dangerous?
). For those taking blood thinners or who have bleeding disorders, spirulina may be dangerous because it could lessen your blood’s ability to clot, causing more bruising and bleeding ( 2 ).
What is spirulina algae?
Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows in both fresh- and saltwater. It’s also commercially produced for use in food and supplements ( 1. Trusted Source. , 2 ). Because it packs 60% protein by weight, as well as various vitamins and minerals, it’s widely used as a food source in certain parts of Mexico and Africa ( 1. Trusted Source.
Can you buy spirulina from a trusted brand?
To avoid spirulina that has been contaminated with microcystins or toxins, only purchase products from trusted brands that have been tested by third-party organizations, such as U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab, or NSF International.
Does spirulina cause autoimmune disease?
Because spirulina boosts your immune system, it may worsen certain autoimmune diseases — such as lupus, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis — in which your immune system attacks your body ( 2 ).
Is spirulina contaminated?
May be contaminated with toxins. Spirulina harvested in the wild poses a significant risk of contamination. The algae may harbor toxins if it grows in a body of water that’s polluted with heavy metals, bacteria, or harmful particles called microcystins ( 2 ).
Is spirulina safe for allergies?
Trusted Source. ). Spirulina and other algae also contain phenylalanine, a compound that people with phenylketonuria (PKU) — a rare inherited condition — should strictly avoid ( 2 ).
Is spirulina bad for you?
Still, this supplement is widely considered safe, and most people experience no side effects ( 2 ). Spirulina may be contaminated with harmful compounds, thin your blood, and worsen autoimmune conditions.
What are the benefits of spirulina?
Thanks to spirulina's nutrients and antioxidants, it can help to: 1 Combat malnutrition, even in people with chronic illness. 2 Combat viral and bacterial effects. 3 Combat heavy metal toxicity. 4 Improve cholesterol levels. 5 Improve blood lipid levels. 6 Reduce inflammation and modulate the immune system. 7 Prevent skeletal muscle damage. 8 Protect the liver.
How many calories are in a tablespoon of spirulina?
According to the USDA, a tablespoon (7 grams) of dried spirulina has 20 calories, 0.5 grams of fat, 1.7 grams of carbohydrates and 4 grams of protein. A tablespoon of spirulina also contains: Advertisement. 11 percent of the DV for iron. 47 percent of the DV for copper.
How much protein is in spirulina?
Spirulina consumption is typically encouraged given how nutrient-rich it is. The Journal of Nutrition Research study reported that protein is one of the primary beneficial nutrients in spirulina. While your average piece of chicken is about 24 percent protein and your average fish is about 22 percent protein, spirulina powder is 65 to 70 percent protein.
What is spirulina extract?
View Work. Spirulina is a type of algae extract that is rich in a variety of essential nutrients and antioxidants. Image Credit: Magone/iStock/GettyImages. Spirulina is a type of algae extract that is rich in a variety of essential nutrients and antioxidants.
Is spirulina a vegetarian food?
This nutrient is typically found in animal-based products like eggs, dairy, shellfish and meat. Spirulina is one of the few vegan and vegetarian-friendly sources of this essential nutrient. Thanks to spirulina's nutrients and antioxidants, it can help to:
Is spirulina a plant based protein?
This means that spirulina can be a valuable protein source for people who consume plant-based diets. On a similar note, spirulina is also rich in vitamin B12.
Is spirulina bad for you?
The benefits and dangers of spirulina products both primarily come from their specific nutritional makeup. Given how nutrient-rich spirulina is, it's possible to get unhealthy amounts of certain vitamins and minerals if you consume excessive amounts of spirulina plant products.
1. Possible contamination with toxins
Spirulina harvested in the wild poses a significant risk of contamination. This blue-green alga may harbour toxins if it happens to grow in water bodies that are heavily contaminated with toxins such as harmful bacteria, heavy metals and microcystin particles.
2. Increase the time of blood clotting
Spirulina has an anticoagulant effect, that means it will thin your blood, and it takes a longer time for your blood to clot.
3. Not suitable for autoimmune disorders
For a person suffering from autoimmune disease, the immune system mistakes any part of the body as a foreign invader and releases proteins called antibodies that attack the healthy cells.
Who should not take spirulina?
If you are suffering from any autoimmune condition, thyroid disorder, kidney stones, gout, phenylketonuria (PKU) spirulina won't be a healthy choice for you.
What happens if you take too much spirulina?
Even if you overdose on this superfood, it is unlikely to cause any harm. Worst possible consequences could be bloating, diarrhoea, nausea and cramps.
Does spirulina interact with any medications?
Until now, there is no scientific evidence to support any possible interaction of spirulina with standard drugs.
Final Words
It is suggested to source your spirulina from a reputed brand in order to ensure that the product conforms to the highest safety and quality standards.
What is chlorella and spirulina?
In the quest for supplements to boost your health, you may encounter chlorella and spirulina, two types of blue-green algae. You may also encounter a number of claims about these supplements' health benefits, from spirulina for heavy metal detox to chlorella for chronic conditions like hypertension. Video of the Day.
What are the health effects of phosphorus?
When consumed in excess, these compounds can present health concerns: High intake of protein, chlorophyll and iron may cause gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhea, nausea or cramps. Excess phosphorus can adversely affect the kidneys. In high concentrations, manganese may contribute to neurotoxicity.
Is chlorella harmful to skin?
Regardless of whether chlorella or spirulina benefits skin, improves chronic conditions or aids overall health, it's important to understand the possible risks. Certain forms of blue-green algae may be contaminated with microcystins and anatoxins, both highly toxic substances, says Winchester Hospital.
Can spirulina affect blood thinners?
URMC notes that spirulina may impact the effectiveness of blood thinners.
Is chlorella a good supplement?
At best, chlorella and spirulina may offer certain health benefits, though those benefits are generally not scientifically proven, according to Harvard Health Publishing. Advertisement. At worst, there can be adverse results of taking chlorella and spirulina. Side effects may be more pronounced if these supplements are taken in excess, ...
Does spirulina help with hair?
Study participants largely reported that spirulina benefits skin and that chlorella and spirulina intake had improved their hair and skin quality. Although these benefits are not directly evidenced, say the authors, the claim is nonetheless plausible, given the nutritional content of these supplements.
Does spirulina help the immune system?
The same is true of claims that spirulina can boost the immune system and improve kidney and liver function. When taken at the recommended dosage, spirulina side effects are few, says Harvard Health Publishing.
What is spirulina good for?
Spirulina is rich in a range of vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining a healthy immune system , like vitamins E, C, and B6. Research finds that spirulina also boosts the production of white blood cells and antibodies that fight viruses and bacteria in your body.
What is the taste of spirulina?
Spirulina has a bitter taste, so people often mix it with yogurts, juices, and smoothies to improve its flavor. Spirulina is commonly available as a supplement at health food stores.
Does spirulina help with triglycerides?
These are fats in your blood that can contribute to the hardening of arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and pancreatitis . Spirulina increases nitric oxide production in your body as well, which helps your blood vessels relax.
Does spirulina cause cancer?
Chronic inflammation contributes to cancer and other diseases. Phycocyanin — the a plant pigment that gives spirulina its blue-green color — has been found to not only reduce inflammation in the body, but also block tumor growth and kill cancer cells.
Is spirulina a plant based protein?
Spirulina is a potent source of nutrients. It contains a powerful plant-based protein called phycocyanin. Research shows this may have antioxidant, pain-relief, anti-inflammatory, and brain-protective properties. This antioxidant and other nutrients in spirulina are linked with several health benefits:
Does spirulina help with cholesterol?
Heart Health. Research has found that the protein in spirulina can reduce the body’s absorption of cholesterol, lowering cholesterol levels. This helps keep your arteries clear, reducing strain on your heart that can lead to heart disease and stroke -causing blo od clots . Its protein also reduces triglyceride levels.
Can you take spirulina with diabetes?
Medication Interactions. Spirulina’s health benefits may interact with or counter certain medications' effects, including those used to treat diabetes, immunosuppressants, and blood thinners. B12 deficiency.
Why is spirulina not a match for spirulina?
That’s because it can stimulate the production of antibodies and cytokines that can combat even the most virulent of infections.
Does spirulina help with pancreatic cancer?
Taking the spotlight is spirulina, which has been deemed effective in preventing the proliferation and growth of pancreatic cancer cells. Because of its cancer-fighting abilities, more and more studies are being held to determine its effectiveness against other forms of malignancies. 9.
Does spirulina lower fasting sugar?
According to research, spirulina can immediately lower fasting and post-eating sugar levels following regular intake. Most importantly, spirulina has also been known to normalize one’s HbA1c level, which is the marker for long-term sugar regulation in the body. 8. Spirulina Can Help Fight Cancer.
Does spirulina help with cholesterol?
With a balanced level of good and bad cholesterols, you can count on your heart to work tirelessly for the years to come! 4. Spirulina Strengthens Your Liver. Spirulina can protect many vital organs, and the liver is one of them.
Does spirulina help with memory loss?
Research shows that spirulina can prevent memory loss by protecting the brain from the damages done by free radicals. Take spirulina everyday and be able to boost your memory to that of your teenage years! 2. Spirulina Protects Your Brain. Spirulina is a well-known anti-oxidant known to do wonders for the brain.
Is spirulina a good blood pressure medication?
While there are many anti-hypertensive medications that can help normalize your blood pressure levels, there’s a healthier, natural treatment that you can try out: spirulina. Not only is it a cheaper choice, it doesn’t come with nasty side effects a swell.
Does spirulina lower blood pressure?
Spirulina Can Lower your Blood Pressure. Hypertension is a very common sickness which affects 33.5% of adults aged 20 and above. Unfortunately, as much as 30,000 of these individuals will eventually succumb to the complications of the disease.
Is spirulina a silver bullet?
Don’t get us wrong, spirulina is not a silver bullet to solve all your health problems, but it might be helpful to you for many conditions * (but please carefully note, not with the few exceptions we have highlighted) that are described on this site.
Does spirulina make you sick?
Of course, it will make you sick if it has toxins using water drawn from a river or water supply with a factory or industry discharging water into that same river or water supply. Spirulina acts like a sponge and soaks up everything in its environment as it grows.
Is spiculina the same as sponge?
Spirulina Is Like A Sponge. Think how a sponge soaks up car shampoo in a bucket of water and car shampoo. Spirulina is the same, it sucks up anything in its environment. So, please make sure the supplier you purchase from, has strict production standards or you will not see the benefits. The reverse may happen.
Can you take spirulina if you have a underlying health condition?
Remember It Helps To Detox You. You know you do not have any underlying health conditions and/or you have checked with your Doctor or Health professional that you can take spirulina. You have now obtained a safe supply of spirulina from a reliable provider.
