Feel Energetic During Ramadhan with Spirulina

Feel Energetic During Ramadhan with Spirulina

May 22, 2017

Introduction

Ramadhan is the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. It is the month during which Muslims observe fasting from morning twilight to the evening twilight. One good option for complete nutrient during the fasting month is organic spirulina.

Spirulina is a type of blue-green microalgae that has been consumed for centuries due to its high nutritional value and health benefits. It has become popularly known as superfood due to the great diversity and concentration of nutrient it contains. Spirulina is an excellent source of vitamins. It contains up to 70% protein and high amounts of beta carotene (which later be converted into vitamin A), B vitamins, iron, essential trace minerals and gamma-linolenic acid.1 Spirulina lacks of cellulose cell walls and therefore it can be easily digested.2

The B vitamins which are the thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), niacin (B3), pyridoxine (B6), folic acid (B9), cyanocobalamin (B12) and biotin (B7) can benefit people who are fasting. These B vitamins are important for carbohydrate, protein and fat metabolism. It is also packed with bio-available protein that can provide a quick energy boost. Like any other food high in protein, spirulina takes more energy to metabolize. It curbs hunger by supplying a steady level of energy to the body all day long which is beneficial to those who fasts during the month of Ramadhan.

Spirulina is adored by the vegetarians and vegans as it is one of the best plant sources of iron. Iron is primarily used for hemoglobin production to make red blood cells that carry oxygen in our cardiovascular system. Iron depletion in the body will cause oxygen to be circulated more slowly in the blood, and causing symptoms like tiredness, fatigue, headache and dizziness. Women, athletes and fasting people have greater iron needs and require them in their daily diet.

Spirulina contains its own antioxidants like beta-carotene, superoxide dismutase, selenium and vitamin E.1 Antioxidants help the body against free radicals formed due to stress, exposure to toxic chemicals, drugs and poor diets. Free radicals lead to degenerative disease like aging and related macular degeneration. Other than that, it has properties known to lower blood sugar level in diabetics and high in essential fatty acids that are effective in lowering cholesterol level. Spirulina is an ideal choice for daily nutritional intake, so add it into your daily routine and feel the energy it provides.

References
  1. Moorhead K, Capelli B & Cysewski GR. 2006. Spirulina: Nature’s Superfood. Hawaii: Cyanotech Corporation.
  2. Dillon JC, Phuc AP and Dubacq JP. 1995. Nutritional value of the alga Spirulina. World Review of Nutrition and Dietetics, 77: 32-46.
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