tHE rEBOUND ROADMAP Newsletter-sPIRULINA

Welcome to The Rebound Roadmap, brought to you by Rebound Athletic - an online fitness provider dedicated to helping people get fit and strong again after life’s setbacks.

Thank you for being here.

Spirulina is definitely an acquired taste, and that's putting it mildly. When I first added Spirulina powder to my smoothie about 6 years ago, I nearly vomited. I remember thinking, 'No matter how good people claim this stuff is, it's going to stay in the cupboard forever.'

However, everything changed when a friend sent me a Podcast featuring the founder of EnergyBits. She explained the science behind Spirulina and Chlorella so eloquently and convincingly that I now incorporate both into my daily routine.

The best part? They come in convenient tablet form! Hoorah!

In this edition of The Rebound Roadmap, we will focus on Spirulina exclusively. Chlorella serves a different purpose, which we will explore another time.

So, without further ado, let's dive right in.

Rebound Roadmap Framework

Get to know the scoring system.

Impact (8/10)

Spirulina is a type of blue-green algae grown in freshwater and saltwater, so rich in nutrients it is considered a superfood. It contains all essential amino acids, and provides antioxidants, vitamins and minerals and other phytonutrients including chlorophyll which is the green pigment found in plants and is another powerful antioxidant.

It is considered an energy boosting supplement, as it has no cell walls making it easy to digest. Here are other cited benefits.

Supports physical performance by reducing muscle fatigue.

Improves memory loss, by preventing oxidative stress to the brain.

Supports a stronger immune system and enhances the body's defense mechanisms.

Improves health markers, such as lowering cholesterol and glucose levels.

Reduces heavy metal levels with its detoxification properties.

Spirulina is generally considered safe for most individuals, but the rare side effects include gastrointestinal issues such as nausea and diarrhoea. In my experience, just very dark poop, like a duck.

It may interact with certain medications related to the immune system or anticoagulants. In this case, it is best to check with your doctor. Plus it contains iodine which you should be aware of if you have an iodine allergy.

Confidence (8/10)

Spirulina has been consumed since the 9th century in Chad, and the Aztecs used it as a food source in the 16th century.

Today, it is widely consumed in Asia, where a significant portion of the population follows a vegan or vegetarian diet, thanks to its plant-based high protein content.

At the 1974 United Nations World Food Conference, Spirulina was praised as a potential solution for addressing malnutrition and hailed as one of the best food sources of the future.

Even NASA includes Spirulina as a dietary supplement for astronauts.

The founder of Energybits boldly stated if you eat algae, you can consume whatever you like on top, because you are getting all essential nutrients. I don't agree with this statement. Sounds like marketing ploy to me. I am pretty sure if I ate fish and chips every day, I may reverse the Spirulina benefits of improving health markers like cholesterol.

But needless to say, Spirulina's overall credentials tend to speak for themselves.

Ease (8/10)

Spirulina can be consumed in either powder or tablet form and is relatively affordable as a dietary supplement.

It is recommended to take Spirulina in the morning, prior to a workout or cognitive activity, due to its energizing effects.

When selecting your Spirulina source, it is important to consider its place of cultivation. Taiwan is renowned for maintaining high standards due to the favorable climate on the island. China and India are major exporters, but the algae grown there may have absorbed higher levels of environmental toxins.

I personally purchase mine from Golden Greens, a UK company that sources their Spirulina from Hannain, a tropical island located in the South China Sea, known for its pristine environment and freedom from pollution.

Final thought

Since I started taking Spirulina, I have noticed a more regulated energy level and a further dissipation of the residual symptoms I had from Long COVID. It's important to note that I began taking Chlorella at the same time, so I cannot accurately distinguish the exact impact of Spirulina.

I hope this has given you sufficient information to decide whether or not to give it a try.

Rachael xo

When you are ready. Here's 2 more ways I can help you

FREE 14 Day Rebound Accelerator Challenge. Live habit, mindset and movement coaching, to prepare you for your athletic comeback. Sign up for free.

Rebound Method Group Coaching. A unique 12 week reconditioning program for the detrained body. Build back stronger foundations, recover your exercise habit and prevent injury. Take a closer look.