Whenever the word algae comes in mind, it doesn’t ring a bell as something edible for people. However, this is simply a case of limited or ill-informed perception or knowledge. But thanks to modern technology; algae has now found its way into society and part of healthy meal plans. Microalgae are tiny photosynthetic plants that are known for high content of vitamins, proteins and chlorophyll. Due to the presence of such constituents, algae is also termed as a “superfood” and regarded as a fantastic ingredient for a healthy meal. This superfood may now become the most nutritious component for a healthy meal available to humankind.

The basic functioning of a microalgae involves the direct conversion of energy from the sun to sugars and proteins. In doing so, it expels oxygen and consumes carbon dioxide. All of the basic functioning of algae is favorable for human life. There are two types of algae that can prove of high value if included in a person’s diet:

• Chlorella
• Spirulina

Let’s have a look at both of these algae types.

Chlorella:

This single celled freshwater algae is known to have the highest quality chlorophyll in it. Chlorophyll resembles the structure of hemoglobin. Since hemoglobin is responsible for carrying oxygen in the blood, chlorophyll has the same task when it goes inside the human body. It increases the red blood cell count in the body. A relevant research has shown that a combination of chlorophyll in the blood and exposure to sunlight can help the human body in producing energy on its own.

Chlorella has more chlorophyll as compared to wheat grass, barley and Alfalfa. All three of these are considered to a good resource of chlorophyll. Yet, chlorella beats all three of them when it comes to the quantity and quality of chlorophyll. Chlorella contains a large amount of RNA and DNA which are responsible for the growth of cells. Hence, chlorella helps in resisting the aging process, too.

Chlorella detoxifies the effect of heavy metals like cadmium, lead and mercury present in the body by binding them together with the indigestible cellulose.

Spirulina:

Spirulina is known to possess high quantity of protein. Spirulina is a sure replacement and alternative of the protein obtained from the meat, eggs etc due the absence of substances like methionine, cysteine etc. but it is still better than other plant sources of protein and one component for a healthy meal.
Some people find it hard to eat meat and other protein rich foods. Spirulina is made precisely for those people. It can easily be obtained in the form of tablets which helps in the smart working of the brain.

Algae as an ingredient in a healthy meal

People these days are suffering from vitamin deficiency due to a lack of consuming a healthy meal multiple times during the week. Apart from proteins, Spirulina is also rich in vitamins like vitamin B, C, D and E. People suffering from skin conditions or blood irregularities can include spirulina in their diet to overcome these conditions.

Spirulina is a blue green algae which is amazingly beneficial for the human body. It contains proteins, vitamins and iron. These constituents help this microalgae in treating hyper activeness, hay fever, diabetes etc.
These algae types have been unknown to human kind in general for far too long. But since the discovery of their super powers, these superfoods are being made available to the general public so that people can obtain maximum benefits from these types as a part of healthy meal plans.