spirulina Archives - Amazing Health Advances

Spirulina Offers 6 Positive Health Effects (Researchers Feature an Amazing Blood Pressure Result)

The AHA! Team — Wed, 28 May 2025 05:32:23 +0000

Sara Middleton via NaturalHealth365 – Spirulina is often referred to as a “superfood” – a popular buzzword in the natural health and wellness world. But you might be wondering: of all the food items out there being touted as a superfood, which ones are actually legitimate? Turns out spirulina – a type of blue-green algae that grows in both salt and fresh water – is one of them. A study published in the peer-reviewed journal Hypertension revealed how spirulina offers a specific natural benefit to people living with hypertension. Additionally, a comprehensive review published in Cell and Molecular Biology highlights spirulina’s impressive nutritional profile and therapeutic potential. This blue-green algae is a rich source of complete proteins, essential fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds such as carotenoids, chlorophyll, and xanthophylls. Due to these attributes, spirulina has shown promise in treating various ailments, including diabetes, cancer, cardiovascular disorders, and neuroinflammatory conditions. Researchers discover what spirulina can do to high blood pressure readings Sadly, an enormous amount of people live with high blood pressure (a reading of more than 140/90 mmHg). This condition is a main risk factor for two of the leading causes of death (heart disease and stroke) – so, understandably, a lot of research has been done to find the best ways to control it. Recently, a team of researchers published their study’s results, which investigated spirulina’s impact on high blood pressure. A blue-green algae, spirulina is considered a cyanobacteria; it contains nutraceutical and bioactive compounds that have been an important part of alternative and holistic medicine for centuries, dating to as early as ancient Africa and the Aztecs (clearly, our ancestors were on to something). In this study, the researchers used peptides to create a spirulina in its digested form (a simulation of what naturally happens in the human body once the substance is ingested). Then, they tested this digested supplement on arteries. Can you guess what happened to the arteries? The spirulina was able to relax the arterial walls by stimulating a process mediated by nitric oxide. The medical community already knows that nitric oxide plays an important role in managing blood pressure. The more easily blood vessel walls can relax, the less likely blood pressure is to spike. Importantly, people with high blood pressure often have a disruption in the metabolic processes mediated by nitric oxide, which normally helps relax arterial walls. The researchers even extracted and identified the specific bioactive compound of spirulina that contributed to this arterial relaxation: a peptide called SP6. As the authors put it: “SP6 interacts with an important signaling pathway known as PI3K/AKT. This interaction leads to the release of [nitric oxide] and, consequently, a drop in blood pressure.” Their findings support previous research, including a 2007 study published in the journal Lipids in Health and Disease. But wait, there’s more: Here are 5 other amazing benefits of spirulina Whether you do or don’t have high blood pressure, adding spirulina to your diet can boost your health in a wide number of ways. Lowers LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Reduces high blood sugar. Has a powerful antioxidant effect to fight damaging free radicals and protect against diseases. Has a powerful anti-inflammatory effect. Offers a concentrated dose of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients, including amino acids, vitamin B, copper, iron, and omega-3. Gram for gram, it’s one of the most nutrient-dense foods in the world. Spirulina is usually taken in pill or powdered form. For a typical amount, aim for 1 to 3 grams daily, and you’ll be amazed at what this little superfood can do for your health. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov MedicalNewsToday.com Healthline.com AHAjournals.org NIH.gov To read the original article click here.

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Spirulina Protects Against Chronic Conditions, Scientists Reveal

The AHA! Team — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 05:30:10 +0000

Lori Alton via NaturalHealth365 – According to a new review published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements, spirulina can alleviate risk factors for heart disease. Let’s take a closer look at the outsized benefits of this tiny microbe. Retirement is supposed to be a time of relaxation and reward, in which people finally have the leisure and the means to pursue their favorite activities. But for many, the luster of these “golden years” is dimmed by poor health. The sad fact is that two out of every three Americans over the age of 60 are affected by chronic conditions such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and cancer. It turns out that spirulina, a single-celled blue-green algae, may potentially help protect against these conditions. Holistic doctors and researchers increasingly report that wise lifestyle choices (such as getting proper nutrition, appropriate supplementation, sufficient exercise, and restful sleep) can play a major role in preventing these potentially life-threatening ailments. And ongoing research continues to confirm this. According to a new review published in the Journal of Dietary Supplements, spirulina can alleviate risk factors for heart disease. Let’s take a closer look at the outsized benefits of this tiny microbe. Spirulina supplementation can help prevent cardiometabolic diseases The review focused on spirulina’s effects on risk factors for cardiometabolic diseases – a group of conditions that encompasses heart failure, heart attacks, strokes, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Since obesity, inflammation, abnormal cholesterol profiles, and imbalanced blood sugar can all “set the stage” for cardiometabolic diseases, researchers were eager to see if spirulina supplementation could ease these risk factors. The short answer to this question is an emphatic “yes.” Extensive studies cited in the review revealed that spirulina supplementation reduced body weight and waist circumference while lowering levels of inflammatory markers, triglycerides, and harmful LDL cholesterol. In addition, spirulina caused a beneficial increase in insulin sensitivity, leading to lower levels of both fasting and after-meal blood sugar. Impressed researchers declared the supplement “effective in reducing multiple risk factors for heart disease” and praised it as a “promising dietary intervention” with “consistent” benefits. Additional research supports spirulina’s anti-obesity effects In a 2017 double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial published in BMC Complementary and Alternative Medicine, obese participants who were given a gram of spirulina a day for twelve weeks significantly reduced their body mass and weight. In a separate study, two grams of spirulina powder a day for 12 weeks also reduced appetite, weight, and waist circumference. Multiple studies have also shown that spirulina suppresses pro-inflammatory cytokines and boosts important antioxidants such as glutathione and superoxide dismutase, helping ease oxidative stress and inflammation. Incidentally, spirulina can help prevent fat deposits in the liver, making it a valuable addition to your toolbox of natural nutrients to use against nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. This nutritious algae is packed with antioxidants, essential minerals, vitamins, and high-quality protein Spirulina’s “secret weapon” in supporting health appears to be a natural plant pigment known as phycocyanin. This compound – responsible for the algae’s eye-catching blue-green color – suppresses oxidative stress in fat cells, discouraging inflammation and enhancing the body’s sensitivity to insulin. Phycocyanin also increases cholesterol excretion – and gets a “helping hand” in this task from spirulina’s high levels of gamma-linolenic acid (GLA). This essential fatty acid has also been shown to regulate cholesterol levels. However, phycocyanin shouldn’t get all the credit for this algae’s health benefits. Spirulina contains many heart-protective polyphenols – such as resveratrol and quercetin – also found in apples, grapes, and onions. Finally, spirulina has an outstanding nutritional pedigree. In addition to being low in fat and calories (and comprised of 70 percent high-quality protein), spirulina contributes healthy amounts of zinc – necessary for proper immune function – along with magnesium and potassium, both needed to regulate heartbeat and blood pressure. While spirulina has played an important role in human diets worldwide since antiquity, its reputation as a “superfood” received a 20th-century boost when it was recommended by NASA as a food for astronauts on prolonged space voyages. By the way, spirulina is also believed to modulate the immune system and boost athletic performance and stamina. Aficionados claim that yet another of its “superpowers” is the ability to reduce the sneezing, itching, and congestion of hay fever (allergic rhinitis). Sprinkle on the spirulina powder and optimize your health Spirulina is available as a supplement in liquid extracts, powders, capsules, and tablets. Holistic healthcare providers typically recommend amounts from one to eight grams daily, but consult your holistic physician before adding spirulina to your health routine. Always use a high-quality product from a reputable vendor to avoid contamination with heavy metals and pollutants. Spirulina powder can be sprinkled over salads, added to soups, dips, baked goods, or mixed into your favorite smoothie or protein shake. As the new review suggests, spirulina seems custom-designed to support health and well-being. While the idea of consuming powdered algae may seem initially unappealing, learning about the potential health benefits may help change your reaction from an automatic “Yuck!” to an enthusiastic “Yay!” Sources for this article include: Tandfonline.com NIH.gov Springer.com Lifenotlabs.com Tandfonline.com To read the original article click here.

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How to Boost Your Immune System and Fight Cancer With Spirulina

AHA Publisher — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 08:00:52 +0000

Dena Schmidt via NaturalHealth365 – Spirulina is in a class all its own when it comes to superfoods. Spirulina is a blue-green alga that contains a potent mix of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, essential amino acids, and concentrated protein. It helps support immune function, helps prevent cancer and cellular damage, and offers a myriad of other benefits. In fact, it is so good for you, a human being could consume just spirulina (along with clean water) and not just survive, but thrive. Here’s a Great Way to Boost Immune Function and Ward Off Infections Spirulina is loaded with antioxidants that reduce free radical damage. Less free radical damage means a decreased risk of heart disease, Alzheimer’s, diabetes, and cancer. Don’t forget: Free radical damage is one of the biggest precursors to cancer – so eating spirulina regularly can help prevent many cancer types. Its antimicrobial properties also help ward off a range of viruses and harmful bacteria, from influenza A, measles, and mumps to herpes and HIV-1. Reduce Your Risk of Radiation Toxicity Did you know that spirulina was awarded a patent in Russia in 1994 as a medical food to reduce allergic reactions from radiation sickness? It literally expels radiation from the body while preventing radiation side effects, adding to its ability to help prevent cancer. Some of the other key features and health benefits of spirulina include: Vitamins and minerals. Spirulina is loaded with calcium, magnesium, and phosphorous. It’s also rich in vitamin K, iodine, selenium, potassium, manganese, and zinc. Spirulina is also well known for its phytopigments content, including chlorophyll, phycocyanin, and carotenoids (a vitamin A precursor). It’s also rich in vitamin E and a number of B vitamins (B1, B2, and B6), which can help offset the effects of stress. Other key nutrients include iron, chromium, and copper. Provides potent, easily digestible protein. The protein content of spirulina is a whopping 60 percent – a full 33 percent more protein than most meats. It is also easier to digest due to the absence of cellulose walls. Healthy fatty acids. It’s an excellent source of the fatty acid GLA (gamma-linolenic acid, crucial for heart health) as well as one of the highest concentrations of omega-6 fatty acid. It also contains sulfolipids, which support T-cell (immune system) health. Better brain chemistry. An abundance of essential amino acids helps spirulina optimize neurotransmitter functioning and balance brain chemistry. Improved digestion. Spirulina is an alkalizing food containing around 2,000 enzymes that aid in digestion. As a result, it has a suppressant effect on harmful bacteria like E. coli and candida while stimulating beneficial gut flora. Additional health benefits of spirulina include: Liver function support Cardiovascular health Better tooth and gum health Regulates blood sugar Controls cravings and appetite The health benefits of spirulina are varied and abundant, with its ability to boost immune system function and prevent cancer among the most impressive. As for consumption, organic spirulina is best since some brands can contain additives and heavy metals. One to two tablespoons per day is ideal, but higher amounts can be consumed if fighting an illness. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov NIH.gov WellnessMama.com OpenEdition.org To read the original article click here.

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Blue-Green Spirulina Algae May Prevent Serious Covid-19

AHA Publisher — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 08:00:35 +0000

Abigail Klein Leichman via Israel21c – An extract of Spirulina blue-green algae may help Covid-19 patients avoid getting seriously ill, according to a study by Israeli and Icelandic scientists published in the journal Marine Biotechnology. “The potential health benefits of Spirulina are well documented,” the authors noted. “This blue-green algae contains C-phycocyanin (C-PC), a pigment-binding protein, which enhances antioxidation, anti-inflammation, and anti-tumor activities.” The scientists found that an extract of photosynthetically enhanced Spirulina reduces by 70 percent the release of an immune-system protein that can cause a cytokine storm in the lungs leading to acute respiratory distress and organ damage. It is believed that cytokine storms are responsible for critical cases of Covid-19. The research was conducted at MIGAL Galilee Research Institute in northern Israel using algae grown at a lab in Iceland by Israeli company Vaxa, which received European Union funding to explore natural treatments for Covid-19. “This indicates that the algae extract may be used to prevent cytokine storms if given to patients soon after diagnosis,” said co-lead author Asaf Tzachor, a biotechnology researcher at IDC Herzliya who is currently leading the Food Security and Global Catastrophic Risks Project at the Centre for the Study of Existential Risk at Cambridge University. The other co-lead author is Or Rozen from MIGAL. Contributing authors include Soliman Khatib and Dorit Avi from MIGAL and Sophie Jensen from MATIS – Food and Biotech Research and Development, Reykjavík. Clinical trials are planned next, with the goal of formulating oral spirulina drops. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Israel21c click here.

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Boost Energy Levels by Eating These 5 Superfoods

AHA Publisher — Wed, 23 Dec 2020 08:00:42 +0000

Michelle Marks via NaturalHealth365 – Feeling tired and mentally drained seems to be the “new normal” in our fast-paced lifestyle. But, if you are drinking energy drinks loaded with artificial sweeteners and caffeine – your condition will only get worse, leaving you exhausted after a brief few hours of hyper-energy. And, let’s not forget the side effects of headaches, nausea and the jitters. So, when it comes to naturally boosting your energy levels, many people would be surprised to learn that certain superfoods provide a healthy alternative. The additional benefit is that it’s so easy to incorporate into a daily routine. Are you ready to take a closer look? How Do Goji Berries Boost Energy Levels? A 2008 randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind study assessed the effect of 14 days of supplementation with goji juice among participants. The study, published in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine, showed that when subjects consumed 120 ml (about half a cup) of goji juice – per day – they felt a significant raise in energy levels, mental acuity, focus and feelings of happiness and health. The study also showed that there was a significant decrease in symptoms of fatigue and stress. Goji berries are versatile and can be incorporated into any dish with little to no preparations. They are easy to enjoy in salads, breakfast porridge, and even tea preparations. Of course, always look for organic goji berries for superior taste and nutritional value. Ginseng Helps to Restore Physical and Mental Energy Ginseng is a powerful fatigue fighter and also an adaptogen that enhances immune function. A Mayo Clinic study showed that American ginseng could address the symptoms of fatigue among cancer patients as well as improve their quality of life. Evidence shows that ginseng helps to fight long term fatigue issues due to its ability to support endocrine function. It is available in the form of dried or fresh roots, capsules and teas. The common recommendation by most herbalists is to consume it every day for 2- 3 weeks and then stop for the next two weeks. The Magical Mushroom Endorsed by Western Medicine Cordyceps, also called a “magic mushroom,” is known for its ability to instantly provide energy and prevent fatigue. Researchers are still not clear how this mushroom enhances energy levels. But, some scientists attribute this ability to the presence of polysaccharides (natural sugars) and antioxidants – which eliminate the threat of free radicals on the body. According to the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center, cordyceps can be used for a wide range of conditions, such as fatigue, sexual dysfunction, immune enhancement and off-setting the negative effects of conventional cancer treatments. A 2010 pilot study that appears in the Journal of Alternative and Complementary Medicine showed that cordyceps supplementation, on a daily basis, improved exercise performance in 20 healthy adults aged 50 – 75. Spirulina Improves Blood Circulation in Sluggish People This blue-green algae is 60 – 70% protein, a good source of vitamin B12, mixed carotenoids and other antioxidants. Spirulina is considered the most efficient and effective dietary supplement that money can buy. According to researchers, spirulina enhances energy levels because of its vitamin B12 and rhamnose. Rhamnose, is a type of biologically active sugar which hastens the transport of nutrients across the blood-brain barrier and to the cell. This property is crucial to alleviate symptoms of fatigue and improve the blood circulation to all parts of the body. A 2010 study, published in the journal of Medicine and Science in Sports and Exercise, showed that spirulina supplementation was able to significantly improve exercise performance by decreasing fatigue related symptoms. Hemp Seeds Give You Energy, Protein and Healthy Omega-3 Fatty Acids Hemp seeds have become popular due to its fantastic macronutrient profile. It is because of the same reason it is mostly used in breakfast smoothies, in the form of protein powder, seeds or oil. Gram for gram hemp seeds pack more protein and comes loaded with the beneficial omega-3 fats. In addition, hemp seeds contain the perfect ratio of omega 3, 6 and 9 – ideal for the body and is also a complete protein. An ounce of hemp seed gives about 160 calories, 10 grams of protein, 15% of the daily value for iron, 45% for magnesium and 21% of zinc’s daily value. The omega-3 fatty acids help to improve focus and alleviate symptoms of depression. Researchers believe that the presence of the minerals, in hemp seeds, boost energy and supply an ample amount of healthy fats for brain and cardiovascular health. There is one thing to keep in mind. If you have any chronic health condition like diabetes, autoimmune disease or take heart medication – herbs, such as ginseng, may increase the risk of bleeding. Obviously, for best results, it would be great to work with an experienced herbalist and integrative healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your diet. Sources for this article include: NIH.gov, NIH.gov, NIH.gov To read the original articles click here. For more articles from NaturalHealth365 click here.

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Top 10 Everyday High-Antioxidant Foods

AHA Publisher — Fri, 01 Nov 2019 07:00:13 +0000

Dr. Don Colbert – Free radicals bombard your body, from your head to your toes every day. But, there’s good news: You can eat high-antioxidant foods to increase your blood levels of antioxidants, and support your body’s production of glutathione to fight back. Every day, your body is bombarded. Whether you like it or not, engage in exercise or are sedentary, stay indoors or head out, free radicals are at work in your body. Against your body. We all encounter oxidative damage from free radicals on the cellular level. It damages cells, oxidizes cholesterol so that it forms plaques, and encourages disease. Luckily, our bodies have a way to deal with it. When you consume high-antioxidant foods and those that support your body’s own antioxidant synthesis, your body can fight back. It’s incredibly important that you do it. But what foods should you consume? High-antioxidants foods mostly come from plants. Here are 10 of the best. And best of all, they are readily available, and most of them are relatively inexpensive. Top 10 Everyday High-Antioxidant Foods 1. Coffee You can start your day off with a cup full of antioxidants. How? Just start with coffee. According to the FRAP assay (which is a well-accepted measurement of antioxidant content), coffee contains 2.7 mmol/per 100 grams (or just 3.5 ounces of liquid coffee) (1). If you drink a more regular 10-12 ounces, you’re getting whopping 8.1 mmol of antioxidants. The main healthful component of coffee is a polyphenol chemical called Chlorogenic Acid (CGA). Chlorogenic acid is highly antioxidant and anti-inflammatory. Experts believe that CGA may be beneficial as an anti-diabetic, anti-carcinogenic, anti-inflammatory and anti-obesity agent (2). Not a bad way to start the day, and doesn’t break the bank (especially when made at home). 2. Berries This one likely comes as no surprise: Berries are very high in antioxidants. In fact, their vibrant colors are dead-giveaway of their antioxidant concentrations. Different berries have different levels of antioxidants, but all are great for it. Levels include (3): Blueberries have up to 9.2 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces Strawberries have 2.1mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces Raspberries have 4 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces Cranberries are also very high in antioxidants, and a very inexpensive source if you buy during the Holidays and freeze for use during the year Many studies also back up the health benefits of berries. For example, both lab and animal studies suggest that blueberries’ antioxidants may delay the decline in brain function that tends to happen with age (4). Blueberries have also been shown to reduce blood pressure in human studies (5). Raspberries are specifically known to lower risks of cancer and heart disease. In fact, a lab study showed that antioxidants and other components in raspberries killed 90% of the stomach, colon, and breast cancer cells in the sample (6). And, a study review concluded that the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of black raspberries may slow down and suppress the effects of a variety of cancers (7). It’s for this reason that blueberries are used as ingredients in the Keto Zone Shakes! This allows Keto Zone eaters to consume berries and enjoy their health benefits. In addition, Divine Health Red Supremefood contains high-antioxidant berries. Not only are they delicious, they truly benefit health and fight disease. 3. Avocados Okay, these aren’t exactly inexpensive. However, avocados do double duty when it comes to antioxidants. First, they contain a spectacular array of carotenoids including: • beta-carotene • alpha-carotene • lutein • neochrome • neoxanthin • chrysanthemaxanthin • beta-cryptoxanthin • zeaxanthin What’s more, the fats in avocado actually increase the carotenoid absorption from other vegetables, by as much as 15 times (8)! Carotenoids directly support eye health and brain health (9). And, they are highly anti-inflammatory. Next, avocados are the best fruit source of vitamin E, an essential vitamin that protects against many diseases and helps maintains overall health. Specifically, vitamin E is an antioxidant that supports brain, cardiovascular, and respiratory health. Lastly, avocados are a good source of glutathione. This super-antioxidant is produced by our own cells and sometimes found in foods. It promotes cellular health, anti-aging, and overall good metabolism and cellular cleansing. 4. Green Tea Green tea is known for its health benefits. It contains 1.5 mmol antioxidants per 100 gm (per 3.5 ounces prepared). Green tea’s antioxidants and other healthful components have been shown to impact the body by: 1. Reducing cholesterol plaques, free LDL cholesterol, and high blood pressure. 2. Inhibiting the growth of cancer cells in lab studies. High consumption of the drink has been associated with a 90% reduced risk of breast cancer in women. 3. Repairing and protecting cells, especially in the brain. In fact, in mice induced with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s Disease, it helped to protect brain cells from dying, as well as ‘rescuing’ already damaged neurons in the brain, a phenomenon called neurorescue or neurorestoration. 4. Providing antibacterial properties that promote oral health. 5. Exhibiting protective effects on eye cels for up to 20 hours after consumption. This has led many experts to believe it may have a role in reducing diseases of the eye and glaucoma. 6. Helping our bodies oxidize and burn fat. Multiple studies have shown an increase in metabolic rates, weight loss, decreased waistline and fat loss with consistent green tea ingestion. 5. Beets and Red Cabbage Beets are chock-full of antioxidants. They contain phytochemical antioxidants called betanins. Betanins are the primary nutrient responsible for that beautiful red hue. Betanins contribute to three main disease-fighting actions (10, 11). Betanins: • Fight free radicals and oxidative • Reduce Inflammation • Support the detoxification of the cells • Like red cabbage and other superfoods, beets also support the production and work of glutathione, a powerful antioxidant our cells make to fight damaging substances. 6. Spices: Cinnamon, Ginger, Cloves, Turmeric, Chili, Garlic Most spices are highly antioxidant. In fact, in a review of FRAP scores of spices and herbs, 27 single products were in the range 100 to 465 mmol/100 grams (1)! This means that ounce to ounce, they are some of the concentrated sources of antioxidants available. But of course, you don’t likely eat the same volume of cinnamon as you do fruits, vegetables and drinks. But even so, a small amount of spice goes a long way towards fighting free radicals and oxidative stress. To add more antioxidants from spices, try adding ginger, cloves, turmeric, garlic, and cinnamon to your diet. And this time of year, add our delicious pumpkin spice mix! A little spice goes a long way, and pound for pound, deliver a lot for their cost. 7. Orange Foods: Butternut Squash, Carrots and Sweet Potatoes With most orange vegetables, it’s all about the carotenoid. Butternut squash, carrots, and sweet potatoes provide carotene antioxidants including alpha-carotene, beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, lutein, and zeaxanthin. These antioxidants will work together to fight free radicals, reduce the risk of cancer, promote heart health and reduce plaque formations, and preserve eye health (12). You’ll seldom find a cheaper high-antioxidant food than a carrot. 8. Pecans Although pecans are expensive, they are a great splurge especially for Autumn recipes and the upcoming Holidays. Pecans are a nutritious nut, high in antioxidants. In fact, they contain 10.6 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces (100 grams) (1), which is higher than Kale (whoa) and most other nuts. They have been shown to effectively raise blood antioxidant levels (13). And best of all, these antioxidants work to provide tangible health benefits. They reduced oxidized blood LDL, which reduces artery plaques (14). Looking for ways to add pecans to your diet? Try these Keto Zone Pecan Tartlets. 9. Spirulina We need antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods since our bodies are constantly bombarded with free radicals, oxidative damage, and inflammation each day. Luckily, spirulina fits the bill. Spirulina contains an active component called phycocyanin, which is an antioxidant that fights free radicals and decreases inflammatory signaling molecules in the body (15). Spirulina is convincingly great for you. The hardest part is taking it in a form that’s easy and tastes good. Try Divine Health’s Fermented Green Supremefood. 10. Cacao and Dark Chocolate If you like adding raw cacao to recipes or eating high-cacao dark chocolate, you’re consuming high-antioxidant foods disguised as dessert already. Believe it or not, cacao has more than 300 different antioxidant chemical compounds and more than 20 times the antioxidant power of blueberries. And while other foods’ antioxidants diminish with time, cacao has demonstrated stability in samples over 75 years old (16)! What’s more, based on the FRAP analysis, dark chocolate (high-cacao such as 70%+) has up to 15 mmol of antioxidants per 3.5 ounces (100 grams). Again, this is more blueberries and raspberries. Cacao provides many other health benefits as well, including stress reduction, reduced blood pressure, brain health, and more. If you want to learn about cacao’s effect on the body, check out these top 10 benefits. Bottom Line Free radicals bombard your body, from your head to your toes every day. But, there’s good news: You can eat high-antioxidant foods to increase your blood levels of antioxidants, and support your body’s production of glutathione to fight back. When you eat brightly colored plants, spices, and beverages such as coffee and tea, you consume antioxidants. These antioxidants will work in your body to fight oxidative stress, reduced oxidized cholesterol, and improve overall health. To read the original article click here. For more articles from Dr. Colbert click here.

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