Which brand of Spirulina algea pills should i get if I am looking for protein?????

Question

Vegetarian, need to up the protein intake, I have fish but not often. Doc wants me on spirulina, which brand has the most protein ??

Answer 1

Um... why do you "need" to up the protein intake? Does the doctor understand nutrition? Doctors usually only get a couple hours of nutrition classes if any so they operate under the same myths that are reinforced by the industries that have the most to lose if people go vegetarian/vegan.

Not getting enough protein is a big myth. Unless you are essentially starving to death (at which point protein is only a tiny part of the overall problem) you are likely getting enough protein. Virtually everything except sugars have protein as even some alcohols have minimal amounts.

Combining/Complementary proteins are another myth.

You literally could eat potatoes all day every day and have more than enough protein. In fact, that's what the Irish did before the blight and what many in Peru still do (they had several more varieties of potato -- about 4,998 more varieties -- so weren't bothered by the blight or famine).

Truth is, too much protein can be very hard on the body and calcium draining because the body has to counteract the acid environment. Among the problems this causes are kidney stones and of course bone weakening.

However, spirulina is a high level pure protein source but it's usually touted for it's other benefits which include antioxidants, b vitamins, minerals, and DHA Omega 3 fatty acids which are pretty important but can be obtained from other sources too.

If you are intent on following the advice then find the best you can which should be a reputable company with standardized dosages. It won't be cheap because you really do get what you pay for but you don't have a discount body do you? And buy a small bottle so you won't waste too much if you decide it's not for you. You can always buy more. The article I'm including a link to specifies "Spirulina Pacifica" brand but brands often depend on where you live and which store you look in.

From the article:

====

Spirulina is a nutrient-dense, chlorophyll-rich dried algae, available in capsules or as powder. I like a product called Spirulina Pacifica, the dried powder from spirulina organically grown in the waters off the Kona coast on Hawaii's Big Island. I recommend 2 teaspoons daily, added to water, smoothies or shakes.

====

Answer 2

If the doctor is wanting you on spirulina as a source of protein for you, I would think that at the very least that he would at least tell you the name and where to buy the particular one that he wants you on.

Most of the studies that I have been look at on spirulina as a source of protein are pretty old and none could I find (with just a quick glance using a search engine) that was newer than - or 20 years.  Many things change in that amount of time.  I know that they found out that spirulina was not a great source to obtain active B12, the article that I source being a very current source for that information.

So my suggestion - to be in line with the doctor as it seems that you want to be - get them to tell you the name and where it can be obtained.

I can tell you that the taste is - one that has to be acquired.  My only thought being that it wouldn't be as bad in pill form.  :)