Blue Spirulina

You may have seen vibrant blue smoothie bowls and mermaid lattes on your instagram feed, but what is the magical ingredient that makes all these posts come to life? The answer is Blue Spirulina.

What is Blue Spirulina?

It all starts with Green Spirulina (Spirulina platensis). Green Spirulina is a blue-green algae that contains a blue pigment that comes from a phytochemical called phycocyanin. Blue Spirulina is actually the phycocyanin that is extracted from Green Spirulina.

What are the benefits?

Phycocyanin is a powerful antioxidant that is unique to spirulina. Its bright blue colour indicates high antioxidant levels, which is one of the reasons why Blue Spirulina is so good for you. Antioxidants fight against free radicals to reduce oxidative stress in the body, protecting our cells. Phycocyanin may also help to boost the immune system by supporting the body to make ‘T’ cells. These cells seek out and destroy infected cells, plus they activate other immune cells and regulate the immune response.

Blue Spirulina is also rich in protein (which is good news for vegans), minerals, and carotenoids. Plus it contains many vitamins, including the B-group vitamins which are great stress busters and good for boosting energy levels.

And, because Blue Spirulina contains chlorophyll, it may also help to feed the healthy bacteria in your gut, and support the detoxification systems in the body.

How is it different to Green Spirulina?

The biggest difference between Green and Blue Spirulina is the taste. Green Spirulina is a whole cell algae, so it does taste like the sea. Blue Spirulina has a much more neutral taste as it is an extract of Green Spirulina.

How do I use it?

You can use Blue Spirulina powder to add a vibrant, healthy addition to smoothies, bliss balls or sweet treats such as mermaid cheesecake. Or, if you don’t want to spend time in the kitchen, try the convenient option of Pro-life’s Spirulina Blue tablets.