Spirulina is a blue-green algae that has been touted for its numerous health benefits. In recent years, there has been a growing interest in two types of Spirulina: green Spirulina and blue Spirulina. While both types share some similarities, they also have distinct differences that set them apart. In this blog, we'll explore the differences between green Spirulina and blue Spirulina and their potential health benefits.
Green Spirulina
Green Spirulina is also known as Arthrospira platensis. It is a type of cyanobacteria that is found in freshwater lakes and ponds. The green color comes from the presence of chlorophyll, which is a pigment found in plants. Green Spirulina is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamins B1, B2, and B3, iron, and calcium. It is also a good source of protein, containing all nine essential amino acids.
One of the most significant benefits of green Spirulina is its antioxidant properties. Antioxidants help to protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, which are molecules that can harm cells and contribute to the development of chronic diseases. Green Spirulina has also been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help to reduce inflammation in the body.
Blue Spirulina
Blue Spirulina, on the other hand, is also known as Phycocyanin. It is a blue pigment that is extracted from Spirulina. Unlike green Spirulina, blue Spirulina is not naturally occurring, and it is not found in Spirulina in its natural state. Instead, it is created by extracting phycocyanin from Spirulina and then processing it to remove other pigments.
Blue Spirulina is often used as a natural food coloring and is popular in smoothie bowls and other food products. It has a bright blue color and is often used to create vibrant and colorful foods. Blue Spirulina also has antioxidant properties and has been found to have anti-inflammatory effects in the body.
Differences between Green Spirulina and Blue Spirulina
While green Spirulina and blue Spirulina share some similarities, there are some distinct differences between the two. The most significant difference is the color. Green Spirulina gets its color from chlorophyll, while blue Spirulina gets its color from phycocyanin. Green Spirulina is a natural food source, while blue Spirulina is a processed extract. Additionally, green Spirulina has a grassy taste, while blue Spirulina has a slightly sweet taste.
Which one is better?
Both green Spirulina and blue Spirulina have potential health benefits, and neither is necessarily better than the other. It ultimately depends on what you are looking for. If you are looking for a natural, whole food source of vitamins, minerals, and protein, then green Spirulina is the way to go. However, if you are looking for a natural food coloring or a way to add some color to your smoothie bowl, then blue Spirulina may be the better choice.
In conclusion, both green Spirulina and blue Spirulina have their unique qualities and potential health benefits. Whether you choose to consume green Spirulina, blue Spirulina, or both, make sure to purchase from a reputable source and consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet