We are used to hearing about how we should eat lots of green leafy vegetables, but not all nutritious green foods are leafy. In fact, a type of blue-green algae—Arthrospira platensis—also known as spirulina, is widely cultivated and used both as a food additive and a dietary supplement because of its outstanding health advantages.
Spirulina is an excellent food and supplement for men and women of all ages, but a few of the benefits hold some particular interest for men. Here are 5 reasons why men should use consider using spirulina.
-
Improves fatigue and boosts energy
Men who want to have more energy and perhaps even better exercise endurance may find some help with spirulina. That’s because use of spirulina has demonstrated an ability to resist both physical and mental fatigue
-
Helps prevent cancer
Numerous studies in test tubes and animals have indicated that spirulina has properties to increase the production of antibodies and other cells that boost immunity and help fight off cancer and other chronic diseases. For example, spirulina was able to significantly reduce the proliferation of human pancreatic cancer cell lines, according to a study published in the Annals of Hepatology.
-
Lowers blood pressure
A pigment in spirulina called phycocyanin has been found to help lower blood pressure. According to Japanese scientists, a rat model of metabolic syndrome showed that spirulina was useful in preventing endothelial dysfunction-associated diseases, such as hypertension and metabolic syndrome.
-
Reduces cholesterol levels
Spirulina can help with this challenge as well. In a recent study conducted in Poland, 2 grams of spirulina or a placebo were taken by 50 obese individuals for three months. At the end of the trial, those who took spirulina showed a significant decrease in bad cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein, LDL) as well as body mass and body mass index.
-
Accelerates weight loss
Men who need to lose some extra pounds could do well to consider spirulina to speed up weight loss. Consuming a spirulina supplement in the morning or at midday can help curb hunger.