" More … "

More than the greatest love the world has known,

This is the love I give to you alone,

More than the simple words I try to say,

I only live to love you more each day.

More than you'll ever know, 

Longer than always is a long long time, 

I know I've never lived before and my heart is very sure,

No one else could love you more ...

~ Frank Sinatra ~ More ~

***

It has been quite fun to introduce more foods in our diet, specifically super foods.  So what is a “superfood”?  It is a marketing term used to describe foods with great health benefits.  Interestingly, the term is not in common use by dietitians and nutritionist, as many dispute the claimed benefits by advocates.

… Spirulina is a simple, one-celled organism that got its name from the 

Latin word for 'helix' or 'spiral' because of its spring-like physical characteristic. Its scientific name is Arthrospira platensis, and it belongs to the cyanobacteria family … 

Nevertheless, we’ve been enjoying the benefits of goji berries, cacao & Spirulina.

Spirulina, technically is not a herb, as this cyan bacteria boasts is fair share of health promoting properties.  Incredibly high nutrients, Spirulina is a natural “algae” harvested from non-contaminated ponds and bodies of spring water.  Vegetarians looking for high natural iron content gravitate towards this food.  And like anything else, it comes with its controversy ... regarding its high B-12 content and if this particular form is a complete and absorbable form.

So how can pond scum be good for you?  It is hard to imagine a plant that can nourish your body by reinforcing your immune system with an abundance of good stuff ... 

• Spirulina is 65% protein and amino acids including the essential fatty acid gamma linolenic acid (GLA) which supports anti-inflammatory properties
• Spirulina contains Omega 3, 6 & 9s
• Spirulina is extremely high in Chlorophyll which helps remove toxins from the blood and boost the immune system
• Spirulina has a high concentration of bio-avail iron which helps with anemia 
• Spirulina is a great source of B-1(thiamine), B-2 (riboflavin), B-3(nicotinamide), B-6 (pyridoxine), B-9 (folic acid), vitamin C, vitamin D, vitamin A and vitamin E
• Spirulina has over 26 times the calcium in milk
• Spirulina is a great source of potassium, chromium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorous, selenium, sodium and zinc

When choosing a type of Spirulina, make sure to choose one that is organic, as others can have nitrate compounds as additives.  We simply add it, and the other super foods, to our veggie juices and smoothies every day.  The phosphorous makes for a nasty taste so it is great to disguise it within.  

Although there are no known side effects, our bodies react differently based on our current state of health.  Some of the most prominent reactions include slight fever due to elevation in metabolism and body temperature, dark green waste matter, rash and itchy skin due to temporary colon cleanse, and sleeplessness due to detoxification process and a sign to rest and heal.

Disclaimer: Spirulina is a powerhouse of essential vitamins and minerals ... and a potent detoxifier.  People with severe seafood or iodine allergies should be aware as well as those who are pregnant, nursing or have hyperthyroidism.  Always consult with your doctor regarding contradictions prior to taking Spirulina.