If you’re a KOR Shot customer, thinking of becoming one, or just happened to land on this article, there’s a good chance you care about your health. You’re most likely very conscious of the things you put into your body, and we applaud you for it!
We handpick each of the ingredients in our custom juice shots for smart consumers like you. From antioxidant-rich superfruits to stress-relieving mushrooms, we’ve thought of all the components that make a juice shot as potent and powerful as possible.
That said, we’re super transparent about our ingredients. We want you to know everything about them, and we want to deliver that information from a trusted source. That’s why we interviewed Health Coach Dr. Diane Neman (follow her at @dr.dianeneman) about the incredible benefits of spirulina – one of the core ingredients in our Green Up.
Check out her answers to our toughest questions about this highly beneficial blue green algae:
First things first, tell us a little about you and all the amazing things you do!
Amazing? I’m flattered!
I’m a certified Holistic Nutritionist and Health Coach, as well as an American Board Certified Dentist. Yes, that’s a lot of things.
I’ve always been super passionate about good health practices, which is why I decided to go after an accreditation from the Institute of Integrative Health & Nutrition and Precision Nutrition.
I currently run a private health coaching business, where I specialize in weight loss and helping my clients reach their health goals through a sustainable lifestyle. Currently, I’m working towards a Masters Degree in Applied Nutrition at Northeastern University.
Now that we know about you, what’s the baseline info we need about spirulina as a supplement?
Spirulina dietary supplements are the dried form of a blue-green algae that’s so rich in nutrients, it’s known as a “superfood.” Some experts call spirulina the most nutritious food on the planet!
In just one tablespoon of spirulina, there are 4 whopping grams of protein, which is (surprisingly enough) far more protein than you can get from the equivalent amount of steak! On top of that, the same tablespoon contains an astonishing number of vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients, including:
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Vitamin B1, B2, and B3
- Iron
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Manganese
- Calcium
- Phosphorus
- Beta Carotene
- Chlorophyll
- Phycocyanobilin
-
And more!
As you can see, spirulina combines many necessary nutrients in one power-packed, single-celled algae.
What are the primary benefits of spirulina?
Because the nutrients and antioxidants in spirulina are associated with a long list of potential benefits, I’ve broken them all down here:
1. Lowers Cholesterol
Studies have shown that one to two grams of spirulina per day can lower your triglycerides and “bad” LDL (low-density lipoproteins). At the same time, spirulina may raise “good” HDL cholesterol. Not only that, but spirulina can keep the “bad” LDL from oxidizing.
2. Protects against cancer
Take it from a dentist – that’s an amazing result!
3. Helps with high blood pressure
A study conducted in 2016 found that taking spirulina daily helped reduce the blood pressure of the study’s participants. Since high blood pressure is linked to many serious health conditions, this could be a major benefit.
4. Fights allergy symptoms
Allergy-sufferers, rejoice! Allergens like pollen and animal hair can make daily life into one long sneeze-fest, especially during spring. But a daily spirulina supplement might just eliminate the need for all of those Kleenex. That’s right, spirulina is a popular alternative therapy for the watery eyes, sneezing, and runny nose caused by allergic rhinitis.
5. Assists with blood sugar problems
Recent studies suggest that spirulina can help diabetics regulate blood sugars, by reducing blood sugar overall, raising insulin levels, and improving liver function. More studies are needed, but the current data is very promising.
6. Helps with weight loss
Because spirulina contains a lot of nutrition in a low-calorie dosage, taking it is a great way to boost nutrition while reducing overall caloric load. And a recent study showed that people taking spirulina daily for twelve weeks reported improved BMI after the treatment period. Additionally, spirulina has been shown to boost metabolism and improve overall gut health.
7. Detoxes heavy metals and other toxins
Improves mental health
People with certain types of depression and anxiety may have lower serotonin levels, and because spirulina is thought to have tryptophan (an amino acid that lifts serotonin levels), it is believed that spirulina may have a positive effect on mental health.
8. Counteracts anemia and muscle fatigue
Results from current studies seem to indicate that taking a daily spirulina supplement may improve hemoglobin levels in patients suffering from anemia. It may also reduce oxidative stress on muscles after exercising, helping to combat muscle fatigue and promote physical activity.
What should someone new to spirulina know before supplementing with it?
Like all dietary supplements, spirulina may not be right for everyone. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Spirulina may have a blood-thinning effect and should be avoided by people taking blood thinners.
- Theoretically, spirulina could contain phenylalanine, so patients with PKU should avoid taking it.
- People with autoimmune conditions, thyroid conditions, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, or who are pregnant/may become pregnant, should consult with a healthcare provider before taking.
- Spirulina may interact with certain medications, so ask your doctor before you begin taking it.
Take it from a health coach – spirulina’s benefits are numerous and well-researched. To harness the power of this super algae, look no further than our very own Green Up. This delightful cold pressed juice shot combines ultra-nutritious spirulina and wheatgrass with yummy pineapple juice for a refreshing dose of greens. Get your greens going with KOR!