Suitable for all ages, spirulina contains a wide range of nutrients and vitamins to boost and protect your health. YAM CHER SENG writes.

MUSLIMS fast during the month of Ramadan, abstaining from food and drinks before the break of dawn till sunset. However, a restricted intake of food and water during fasting may lead to poor concentration and malnutrition.

According to Dr Christopher Hill, the editor of the book The Secrets of Spirulina, organic spirulina is a good supplement for those who are fasting or dieting as it is an extremely digestible, high-energy, low-calorie, low-fat natural food containing a wide range of important nutrients.

Many complaints such as weight gain, lethargy, high cholesterol and blood pressure after a long balik kampung holiday are probably due to overindulgence in foods high in saturated fats, sugar and unhealthy lifestyles. To address these problems, people may tend to cut back on foods or going on crash diets, thus further compromising on their nutritional status.

Organic spirulina is the richest source of natural antioxidants of any whole-food source. Most notably, it is 65 to 71 per cent complete protein, with all essential amino acids in perfect balance. It contains nutrients such as zinc, manganese, selenium, copper, vitamin E, B vitamins, beta-carotene and gamma linolenic acids (GLA). It is also rich in chlorophyll, much richer than wheat grass and alfalfa.
Oral intake of 4.5g/day of spirulina has the ability to reduce blood pressure and exerts hypocholesterolemic effects as demonstrated in a study involving 36 volunteers for a period of six weeks.

It also contains bio-chelated (easily used by the body) organic iron. Spirulina is also recommended for strict vegetarians who are often found to be suffering from low iron and vitamin B12 in the body. In India, pregnant and nursing mothers with anaemia, an iron deficiency disorder, are also encouraged to consume spirulina. This is supported by studies showing that intake of spirulina improved haemoglobin formation, serum and tissue iron levels of anaemic subjects.

The B vitamins are known as ‘energy vitamins’ because they are vital for the efficient metabolism of carbohydrates, protein and fats, which the body burns to produce energy. Therefore, spirulina which contains B vitamins may be beneficial to those suffering from low energy levels. Athletes take organic spirulina because it provides lasting high energy which improves stamina and increases endurance. Spirulina can also be taken by those who do not have the time to eat regularly and feel tired all the time.

As organic spirulina is easily digested, it is an ideal food supplement for elderly people who are unable to absorb, assimilate and utilise nutrients efficiently. It also reduces recovery time for those recovering from surgery and illness.

There are many ways you and your family can enjoy eating spirulina without the need to swallow the capsules. Organic spirulina can be sprinkled onto your drinks, sandwiches, porridge, salads or pasta, making it suitable for children and picky eaters.



* The writer is a pharmacist who is actively involved in the dissemination of information on natural healthcare and holistic therapies. For more information, she can be contacted at csyam@streamyx.com