The heart is responsible for providing the body with oxygen and nutrients it needs and is arguably the most important organ in the body. Failing to keep your heart healthy can lead to serious and life-threatening conditions such as heart disease, heart failure and heart attack. A few ways the heart can be kept in the best shape possible is to give up smoking, regularly exercising, eating more fibre, fruit and vegetables, and cutting down on salt and saturated fat. Some experts also recommend a certain supplement which can be added to shakes and smoothies.
Spirulina is packed with antioxidants, which can help prevent out cells from damage caused by free radicals
Spirulina is packed with antioxidants, which can help prevent out cells from damage caused by free radicals.
Free radicals are unstable atoms which can damage cells.
The damage can cause long-term inflammation which can lead to conditions such as heart disease and high blood pressure.
Spirulina has also been shown to help lower ‘bad’ cholesterol’ in the body.
High cholesterol is a significant risk factor for heart disease.
A 2018 meta-analysis of research suggested spirulina supplements had a “favourable effect” on improving ‘bad’ cholesterol.
Holland & Barrett explains what spirulina is: “Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae that grows in freshwater ponds and lakes.
“It became popular after it was discovered that NASA gave it to astronauts on space missions as a food supplement.
“You can take spirulina in tablets, capsules or as a powder that can be added to shakes and smoothies for a nutritional boost. It’s also increasingly popular as an ingredient in snack, or energy, balls.”
When it comes to dosage, the high street health store says there’s no official daily dosage.
But studies have found a dosage between 1-8g a day could be effective.
It further advises: “Make sure you follow any instructions or recommendations on the product label before taking.
“Talk to your GP or a trained dietician or nutritionist if you’re concerned.
“You should not take spirulina if you are pregnant – there’s not enough evidence to prove it is safe – have an auto-immune disease – it may cause the condition to flare up – or are taking blood-thinning medication – it may slow blood clotting.
“If you are on any medication, check with your doctor that it is safe to take spirulina at the same time.”
Another supplement which could be beneficial to the heart is calcium.
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