Spirulina refers to a supplement of dried cyanobacteria (Arthrospira sp.) that is available commercially in both tablet and powder forms. Spirulina is an emerging multi-nutrient food that has been shown in nutritional studies to possess a number of health benefits. Spirulina is grown in large tanks with controlled conditions and this allows the nutrient content to be controlled to some degree. Spirulina is a rich source of protein, and also contains a large concentration of carotenoids including beta carotene. The carotenoid content of spirulina makes it an effective source of antioxidants. Spirulina is also generally rich in minerals and certain vitamins and this may also go some way to explaining the health benefits of its food form. Studies suggest that some of the health benefits of spirulina may derive from the beneficial glycaemic effect that occur through regular consumption. Over the course of a number of months this may result in spirulina being particularly beneficial to those with type 2 diabetes.
For example, in one study1, researchers gave 2 grams per day of spirulina to subjects with type 2 diabetes. Another group of subjects with type 2 diabetes did not receive spirulina and acted as a control group. Following the end of the 2 month period the group consuming had a significant reduction in the concentration of fasting blood glucose in the plasma compared to the control group. This reduction in fasting blood glucose was reflected by a reduction in the concentration of glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) in the plasma of the spirulina group, compared to the controls. The spirulina group also experienced a significant fall in the fasting triglyceride levels, low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and total cholesterol levels. There was also a slight increases in high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and therefore the LDL to HDL cholesterol ratio improved in the subjects consuming spirulina. Spirulina may therefore have particular benefits to those with poor blood sugar control, and those at risk of diabetes.
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