Is Spirulina Gluten-Free?
Spirulina is Gluten Free.
Gluten comes from Wheat, Barley, and Rye. Spirulina is algae from the sea and is in no way related to the Gluten Grains.
About Spirulina
Spirulina is an Alga that is full of protein, vitamins, and minerals. It is considered a superfood because it has a well-rounded. It contains all the essential fatty acids we need.
There are 4 grams of protein for each tablespoon of spirulina. A serving size is typically about one tablespoon.
Spirulina also has plenty of iron, calcium, potassium, magnesium, chromium, phosphorous, and more. It is also full of Vitamin A, K, and many of the B vitamins as well. In addition, it is full of antioxidants.
Spirulina is a popular addition to smoothies and shakes. Some people drink it plain stirred into water.
It is also used as an addition to Salad dressings and sauces. People enjoy it mixed into yogurt or soups. Some people even mix it into things they are baking like muffins or cookies.
Health Benefits
Spirulina is a relatively new food to be added to the markets. It has been around for thousands of years but for most of that time it was not considered a food for people. Recent research has looked at the health benefits of Spirulina.
The research looks beyond all the vitamins, minerals, proteins, and fatty acids. Studies have shown a correlation between eating Spirulina as a supplement and pain relief and inflammatory responses.
Some studies have found that the protein in Spirulina may actually reduce the body’s cholesterol absorption, thereby lowering cholesterol levels in participants.
Spirulina consumption can also lower Blood Pressure. Phycocyanin is a pigment from Spirulina that has been found to have antihypertensive effects on people.
The antioxidants found in Spirulina protect against oxidative damage to our bodies. Phycocyanin is only one of the antioxidants found in Spirulina.
Current research is being done to determine the anti-cancer properties of Spirulina. Some studies have determined that Spirulina may slow or stop the growth of tumors. The science is still very new but early studies show promise.
Ingredients
Spirulina is an alga it has no additional ingredients.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrition | Per Serving (10 g) |
| Calories | 30- 35 |
| Protein | 6 g |
| Fat | 0.2 g |
| —- Saturated Fat | 0.3 g |
| Salt | 20 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 1 g |
| —- Sugars | 0 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
The following table is an example of what might be found in Spirulina. Different brands may have slightly different numbers.
| Vitamins & Minerals | Amounts per Serving (10 g) | |
| Potassium | 125 mg | 2% |
| Iron | 4 mg | 20% |
| Vitamin A | 20,500 mcg | 2278% |
| Vitamin K | 97.5 mcg | 80% |
| Thiamin | 0.3 mg | 25% |
| Riboflavin (B2) | 0.5 mg | 40% |
| Niacin (B3) | 1.4 mg | 8% |
| Vitamin B6 | 0.1 mg | 6% |
| Folate | 13 mcg | 4% |
| Vitamin B12 | 35 mcg | 1460% |
| Magnesium | 20.5 mg | 4% |
| Zinc | 1.7 mg | 15% |
| Selenium | 0.7 mcg | 2% |
| Chromium | 20 mcg | 60% |
| Manganese | 0.2 mg | 8% |
Sources:
Nutriseed – https://www.nutriseed.co.uk/products/spirulina-powder
Superfood World – https://www.superfood-world.com/blogs/news/spirulina-for-celiacs
WebMD – https://www.webmd.com/diet/spirulina-health-benefits#1-2
Healthline – https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-spirulina#TOC_TITLE_HDR_5