Algae is all the rage within superfoods. Everyone knows by now the nutrient-rich spirulina powder. The detoxifying chlorella is also gaining more and more fans. Besides these two well-known blue-green algae, the algae family has other healthy members. Seaweed, for example, which is officially a macro-algae. In Asian countries such as Korea and Japan, they have been eating it for centuries; there they gobble up dozens of pounds of this stuff every year. Not entirely coincidentally, these are also super healthy peoples… Should you also be on algae for your health? Read all about how healthy algae and seaweed are and how to get more of them through your food.
The best-known algae species
Tens of thousands of species of brown, green and red algae are found all over the world. Each type of algae has slightly different health benefits and nutrients. In general, you can say most species are very healthy for you. Chlorella and spirulina are the best-known algae that people consume as a food source and supplement. Spirulina is best known as a type of algae that is packed with protein and micronutrients. Chlorella is unique thanks to its detoxifying properties. The compound β-1,3-glucan contained in chlorella is good for your immune system and it clears out harmful free radicals.
Why algae are so healthy
There are an immense number of reasons why algae has been called superfood and even the food of the future. Here are the main arguments why microalgae and seaweed are so healthy.
Algae as a plant source of healthy omega 3
Fish is the main source of omega 3 fatty acids for many people. These are polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are known to protect you from cardiovascular disease. But did you know that fish do not produce omega 3 themselves? In fact, they ingest this through … algae! For vegans, this is great news. After all, to get enough omega 3, you don’t have to eat fish; you can stick to algae.
Protein-rich
Algae contain all the essential amino acids. Amino acids are the building blocks from which our bodies make proteins. Essential amino acids can only be obtained from food because our bodies cannot produce them. Few foods have this property. Only the amino acids tryptophan and leucine are relatively less abundant in algae. Algae and seaweed are amazingly high in protein at all . Some species contain as much protein as meat and dairy. Chlorella, for example, consists of about 50-60% protein. Spirulina even exceeds that.
Also, this protein source is better for the environment than other animal and vegetable protein sources. Thus, it takes much less area to grow it. It can literally be planted in existing water features, taking up no extra space.
Vitamin and mineral bombs
Chlorella and spirulina, the best-known types of green algae, are full of vitamins and minerals such as magnesium, iron, B vitamins and calcium. Spirulina contains as much as 50 times more iron than spinach!
Protect against viruses, inflammation and bacteria
Algae have all kinds of positive healthy properties. Partly because they contain lectins, they are a helper in protecting your body from outside attacks. Think viruses, bacteria and inflammation. In addition, algae are rich in peptides: compounds that, among other things, help keep your blood pressure, cholesterol and even appetite in check.
Eating more algae: our tips
Convinced of the benefits of eating these healthy algae? Try to get them mostly through your food. At least as long as you like the taste.
Nori: healthy dried red seaweed
You know Nori from the delicious sushi rolls. Leaves of this healthy red seaweed can just be gotten at any supermarket. Google a tasty recipe and make your own healthy sushi rolls at home.
Wakame: blissful, sweet and salty seaweed
Wakame is a delicious addition to Asian cold dishes, such as sushi bowls and noodle salads. This is a healthy type of brown seaweed that most supermarkets do have on their shelves.
Seaweed burger: a protein-rich taste experience
Seaweed is delicious to eat fresh and dried. This can be as pure products, but also in processed ones. You probably know the Dutch Weed Burger. These plant-based burgers are made from seaweed that is also grown locally. Not only healthy, but also good for your karma!
Supplements with healthy algae
You regularly see spirulina on the menu in trendy joints, where they incorporate the powder into shakes and smoothie bowls. The taste is quite intense, so feel free to choose the easy supplement form to get around this possible drawback. Go for our Chlorella– and Spirulina tablets in a jar of as many as 240 or go for the Daily Zen gummies. This supplement contains not only spirulina algae but also the mega healthy turmeric.