•Spirulina is a type of non-toxic blue-green algae (cyanobacteria). It may refer to a number of different species in the Arthrospira genus, namely platensis and maxima. Spirulina is often used as a vegan source of protein and iron and is rich in a variety of other nutrients and phytochemicals. It is believed by some to provide vitamin B12, but it actually contains the dubious pseuodovitamin B12 which hasn't been shown to be effective. Spirulina has a few notable active components. The main ingredient is called phycocyanobilin, which makes up about 1% of spirulina. This compound mimics the body’s bilirubin compound, in order to inhibit an enzyme complex called nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase. By inhibiting NADPH oxidase, spirulina provides potent antioxidative and anti-inflammatory effects.
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