Superfood:
Algae C h l o r e l l a
48 June 2017
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ou’ll never believe that something green
and slimy is good for your health. (And
we’re not talking about green smoothies.)
Algae, yes algae, are
rich in health-boosting
nutrients, and may help
you achieve optimal
health. A blue-green variety
that lends a unique hue
to foods is spirulina. A
good source of plant-
based protein, spirulina
has powerful antioxidant
and anti-inflammatory
properties that can help
heal and protect against
inflammation and other
cell damage. A single
tablespoon of dried
spirulina powder contains
four grams of protein,
and it may help lower
bad cholesterol levels!
Spirunlina powder can be
added to smoothies or
blended into juices—it’ll
lend a beautiful blue or
green color. It can also be
taken as a tablet.

We’re not advocating for
you to scrape the gunk
off of your fish tank, or to
skim the top of a stagnant
pond to get your dose
of this superfood. Not all
algaes are created equal.

Edible algae is so full
of nutrients that it may
be considered one of the
most nutritious foods
known to man; beating
out eggs, another nutrition
powerhouse. Because
they’re lesser known
and conjure an “ick”
factor, they are relatively
overlooked. Touted benefits include
boosted energy levels,
weight loss, and it can
even naturally aid in
easing anxiety, fatigue,
stress and diabetes.

Algae can come in many
different edible forms.

The most common is
seaweed. Seaweed is
popular in Asian countries,
most notably wrapped
around our favorite sushi
rolls, and known as nori.

But these sea plants do
come in different varieties,
all with different benefits.

grains and legumes to
ease digestion. (Discard
the kelp after cooking.)
Powdered kelp can be
added to smoothies, or it
can be simply sprinkled
onto savory dishes for a
nice salty taste.

Kelp, a kind of seaweed,
is very unique among its
fellow algae. This marine
strain is full of iodine,
which is critical for thyroid
function. It also boasts
essential fatty acids, fiber,
potassium and sodium.

It may aid in cancer
prevention, and is also a
natural laxative. Sheets
of kelp can be added to
cooking rice or beans
to give tenderness and
flavor. It also helps soften
Chlorella has a dark-
green color and is full of
chlorophyll. Not just for
plants, chlorophyll may
help the body cleanse
and heal its organs. It’s
also a good source of beta
carotene, vitamins B-12, C
and E, zinc and selenium.

Similar to spirunlina,
chlorella can be added to
juices or smoothies, and
can also be found in tablet
form. No matter what type
of algae you choose, you
can’t go wrong with this
nutrient-rich food.

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