Today, the world is returning to green and natural. Not only are we doing this to preserve the environment, but also to preserve our health. We have even turned to substances like spirulina and chlorella, algae commonly known to us as pond scum but now being processed and rendered into superfoods.

Spirulina

This alga has been around for thousands of years and is blue-green. The color reflects the amount of chlorophyll present, which is important as a health supplement. It has no hard cell wall and has a spiral shape under a microscope. The lack of cell wall is good for us and our digestive systems.

Chlorella

This alga is green and while not as old as spirulina but it has many powerful benefits. It grows by photosynthesis just like spirulina, but has a hard cell wall which could technically classify it as a plant instead of simply algae.

Both substances are being purified to be used as superfoods. Superfoods are those foods we encounter that can provide all the nutritional needs of the body. These algae contain massive amounts of protein, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fatty acids. Antioxidants in particular have been touted recently as an excellent way to ward off certain types of cancer.

As a dietary supplement you can purchase algae in pill or powder form. A growing body of evidence shows that taking these supplements may help detoxify your body, fight cancer, help with weight loss, improve memory and immunity, and help build bone.

When choosing which algae to use, find a reputable source for your supplements. Not everyone uses a rigorous purification process. If you are not sure what to choose, ask for help at you local health food store. You can also read reviews online and pick the supplement that is right for you, at the right price.

Algae is a low calorie superfood. Try it in your diet to see if it can give your health a boost too.