Spirulina

Overview

Spirulina is a microalgae providing protein, antioxidants, and phycocyanin, but contains pseudovitamin B12 analogues that are inactive in humans. Spirulina has DIAAS 75-83, is methionine and lysine-limited, and contains some bioactive peptides. By contrast, spirulina is dominated by pseudovitamin B12 analogues, which are inactive in humans and therefore unsuitable as a primary B12 source. Nonetheless, both algae provide antioxidant and amino acid support.

Recipes

no recipes found

Substances

1 substance in this food

Iron

Oxygen transport; dopamine synthesis (tyrosine hydroxylase cofactor)

Preparation Notes

• Not suitable as primary B12 source (contains inactive analogues)
• Provides other beneficial compounds
• Available as powder, tablets, or capsules
• Pair with grains/legumes for amino acid balance

Biological Target Matrix

Biological Target	Substance	Therapeutic Areas	Mechanism of Action
Mitochondrial Support	Iron	ADHD, Anxiety & GAD, Depression & MDD, Alzheimer's Disease, Bipolar Disorder	Critical for oxygen delivery to the brain via hemoglobin; supports mitochondrial function and energy production
Neurochemical Balance	Iron	ADHD, Anxiety & GAD, Depression & MDD, Alzheimer's Disease, Bipolar Disorder	Essential cofactor for tyrosine hydroxylase, the rate-limiting enzyme in the conversion of tyrosine to dopamine; critical for catecholamine synthesis

References

• Spirulina: DIAAS 75-83, Methionine, lysine - Contains some bioactive peptides
• Chlorella contains bioavailable, true vitamin B12 (cobalamin), confirmed in animal feeding trials, and may help close vegan nutrient gaps. By contrast, spirulina is dominated by pseudovitamin B12 analogues, which are inactive in humans and therefore unsuitable as a primary B12 source Watanabe et al. 2002. Nonetheless, both algae provide antioxidant and amino acid support