Fresh Spirulina - A Solution for Anemia
In recent years, growing clinical evidence illustrates the link between the consumption of fresh spirulina and improvements in anemia indicators among various populations, particularly vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly.
Spirulina – a blue-green microalga – has long been known as a rich source of protein, but it is also a quality source of vitamins and minerals, particularly iron and antioxidants necessary for the body. The health benefits of fresh spirulina have been proven in many studies across various health conditions, including anemia.
Fresh spirulina contains large amounts of bioavailable iron, which has been shown to be easily absorbed in the digestive tract: a single dose of 20 grams of fresh, wet spirulina contains an amount of iron equivalent to 100 grams of dill or four times the iron found in 100 grams of beans, providing about one-fifth of the daily recommended iron intake (according to the DRI for an adult).
Fresh Spirulina for Treating Anemia in Pregnant Women
Scientific literature indicates that these promising results and potential in the therapeutic field of such a widespread public health issue as anemia have been observed not only among children but also among adults, particularly women.
Women of childbearing age who are not pregnant are at increased risk of developing iron deficiency and anemia due to various causes.
Combating iron deficiency anemia in pregnant women is a top health priority due to its association with adverse outcomes, including maternal mortality, low birth weight, and preterm birth. According to a 2003 review, due to its unique characteristics regarding iron metabolism, fresh spirulina can be used as an excellent treatment for iron deficiency in the diet of pregnant women as a preventive measure. It is already widely used among pregnant women in Japan, India, and Singapore.
Fresh Spirulina for Treating Anemia in Adults
Anemia is also common among older adults and is associated with increased hospitalization and disability, a higher risk of falls and muscle strength impairment, and a higher risk of mortality. In 2011, forty volunteers of both genders (aged 50) participated in a clinical study and were treated with 3 grams of fresh spirulina daily for 12 weeks. After the treatment, increases in hemoglobin and ferritin levels were observed, with older women likely benefiting more quickly from the fresh spirulina supplements.
Researchers concluded that fresh spirulina could alleviate anemia in older adults and is beneficial in treating iron deficiency.
In conclusion, the accumulated scientific evidence over the years shows a significant and strong link between the high iron content in fresh spirulina, combined with its high bioavailability, and the fight against one of the most challenging public health problems. It can easily be inferred that regular consumption of fresh spirulina serves as an excellent option for treating iron deficiency and preventing chronic blood disorder – anemia – in the general population and particularly in vulnerable groups such as children, women, and the elderly.
