MOVE asides avocados, chia seeds and almond butter and there’s a new superfood in town.
And if you thought the selection of magic foods couldn’t get any weirder, think again.
GettySpirulina can be used to shrink tumours in people living with oral cancer[/caption]
Pond scum is believed by health fanatics to be the next best protein substitute – which can replace the likes of meat and eggs.
Spirulina, as its technically called, is thought to be one of the oldest forms of life on planet earth.
It used to be eaten by the Aztecs during the 13th century to treat various diseases and sustain their marathon runs.
In more recent days, it’s been consumed by Nasa astronauts, after studies identified the green stuff as a nutrient-dense food that was also practical and convenient.
So, what are the other health benefits of Spirulina?
1. It’s a powerful antioxidant
People are always raving about the antioxidant effects of blueberries, avocados, salmon – and now you can add spirulina to that list.
“Antioxidants have this wonderful ability to go in and beat up on free radicals, which are essentially poisons that we come in contact with in our everyday lives,” registered dietitian Beth Czerwony, said.
The substances can also reduce inflammation in the body, which can decrease the chance of developing a whole host of nasty diseases, the expert told The Cleveland Clinic.
Chronic inflammation has previously been linked to Alzheimer’s disease, asthma, heart disease and cancer.
2. Reduces cancerous tumours
One study, published in 1995 found that spirulina can be used to shrink tumours in people living with oral cancer.
They experts found that just one gram of spirulina per day for a year reduced cancerous tumours in 45 per cent of research participants.
3. Relieves your seasonal allergies
For those who suffering from hay fever, the green stuff could help quell some of the unpleasant symptoms.
One study has shown that regular use of spirulina may help relieve a runny nose.
4.Improves dental health
The algae with seemingly endless benefits also has anti-bacterial properties.
This means it can kill of harmful germs.
Some scientists put it’s antibacterial strength to the test by creating spirulina-laced mouthwash.
People who used the mouthwash saw a signifcant reduction is dental plaque and gingivitis, both of which are linked to gum disease.