SPIRULINA SIDE EFFECTS

The benefits of spirulina, a superfood that grows naturally in waters, have convinced naturopaths for many centuries and are still an integral part of the diet in many regions.

As with all medicines and food supplements, however, it also makes sense to take a look at the possible side effects of spirulina.

In general, spirulina (a member of the cyanobacteria genus) is considered safe and almost free of side effects. The FDA (American Food and Drug Administration) has also classified the microalgae as "generally safe".

Spirulina side effects are rare and occur mostly at the beginning of use. But even in long-term use (over six months), the dietary supplement is considered safe and beneficial to health, but only if the respective product is of high quality and the recommended spirulina dosage is adhered to.

It is important to note that spirulina can interact with other medicines. People with certain pre-existing conditions should also avoid it. More about this later.

Possible Spirulina side effects:

> flatulence (especially at the beginning of Spirulina use)

> gastrointestinal problems and indigestion

> mild nausea

> headache

> tiredness

> diarrhoea

These Spirulina side effects usually occur at the beginning of use, as well as with an overdose of Spirulina products. However, these symptoms should disappear after a few days if the dose is reduced or use is discontinued.

Possible Spirulina intolerances:

> allergic reactions

> diseases caused by impurities in the product

Allergic reactions (in this case to algae or marine animals) must always be ruled out before using spirulina. In addition, the microalgae grow naturally in freshwater or saltwater lakes. If these are contaminated, toxins, heavy metals or similar could be deposited in the algae.

To prevent this, high-quality Spirulina food supplements are obtained from aquacultures. The biomass produced in this way under supervision is dried and comes onto the market as spirulina powder or spirulina capsules. High-quality production, purity and processing are therefore essential to avoid Spirulina tablet side effects.

Possible Spirulina interactions and contraindications:

> thyroid disorders

> metabolic disorders (e.g., phenylketonuria)

> certain medications (e.g., blood thinners)

The health benefits of spirulina are based in particular on the high levels of nutrients, minerals and vitamins. However, this can be counterproductive for some diseases.

For example, since the microalgae have quite a high iodine content, people with thyroid disorders should definitely consult a doctor to avoid Spirulina side effects for the thyroid gland.

In some cases, taking it may even be recommended. But this is very individual and always depends on the type of thyroid problem (e.g., hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism). The same applies when taking blood-thinning medication, as the microalgae contains vitamin K, among other things.

Spirulina is, in any case, not suitable for people suffering from the metabolic disease phenylketonuria. The algae preparations contain the amino acid phenylalanine, which can negatively influence the disease.

To be on the safe side and to avoid spirulina interactions, people taking medication and suffering from pre-existing conditions should always consult with the medical professionals treating them.

The following applies to pregnancy and style time: as there are too few scientific studies and data on possible Spirulina side effects during pregnancy, and contamination of the microalgae cannot always be ruled out, it is not recommended to take Spirulina during this time to be on the safe side.

Losing weight with spirulina and detoxing - is that possible?

The microalgae are an important source of energy and are still traditionally part of the diet in some countries. As a food supplement, its high nutritional value and the many minerals and vitamins are particularly appreciated. But losing weight with spirulina means above all: losing weight healthily and in the long term. In addition to the diet, however, the lifestyle and general eating habits must also change. Spirulina can help to lose weight healthily and permanently, as the carbohydrates and proteins it contains induce a strong feeling of satiety. The aim is to avoid snacks and snacks in between meals by taking Spirulina capsules or powder and still take in valuable vitamins. A balanced and above all healthy diet and exercise are a must with or without spirulina for weight loss.

Besides spirulina for weight loss, many use spirulina for detoxification. It can help the body to cleanse itself of harmful substances and toxins, which is an important basis for losing weight with spirulina anyway.

Detoxing with spirulina has so far mainly been used in naturopathy. In addition to protein, the microalgae also contain a lot of calcium and B12, which is supposed to detoxify the body naturally. A side effect of spirulina is also (especially at the beginning of the therapy) an accelerated passage in the gastrointestinal tract as well as diarrhoea.

Due to the excretion of these toxins, possible spirulina side effects are fatigue, flatulence, diarrhoea and general malaise - typical symptoms of detoxification, which should however subside after a few days.

Spirulina side effects experiences - what users say

Spirulina for detoxification is particularly popular. According to feedback from users, the positive effects of a Spirulina Detox cure are very reliable. It should be taken for at least four weeks, but usually for six. This cycle can be repeated 3 to 4 times a year - Detox with Spirulina: for more vitality and general well-being.

An application for Spirulina detoxification is also said to be the perfect basis for weight loss. Spirulina can support a diet sensibly, as the microalgae contain many vitamins and minerals. In addition, the proteins provide a long-lasting feeling of satiety, according to most experiences with spirulina. Cravings are significantly reduced as a result, according to users.

Users state that spirulina is best used with or directly after meals for this purpose.

This is also supported by the Spirulina side effects experiences on intake: Since Spirulina capsules taken sober can often lead to gastrointestinal problems, it is better to take them with or after meals.

Regarding possible Spirulina side effects for the thyroid gland, Spirulina experiences vary. The food supplement contains a relatively high amount of iodine, which the human body needs and can also utilise well. However, the necessary iodine intake for thyroid diseases depends on the specific type (e.g. hyperthyroidism or hypothyroidism). The extent to which spirulina can be helpful or harmful must always be decided by the specialist treating the patient.

Overall, it can be said that the reports on Spirulina capsules side effects are very rarely negative, at least when used correctly, with the correct Spirulina dosage and high-quality, pure and tested products. The health-promoting effects of spirulina outweigh the side effects. Convince yourself!

Sources:

https://www.gesundheit.de/ernaehrung/leicht-abnehmen/spirulina 

https://www.phytodoc.de/heilpflanzen/spirulina/Nebenwirkungen

https://www.gesundfit.de/artikel/spirulina-2702/ 

https://www.spirulina.info/nebenwirkungen.html

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