Spirulina vs Bee Pollen
Nitika writes:
I have been taking spirulina now for eight years now, I am a very busy mum who also works. I took spirulina to keep my energy levels up (as I have Low thyroid and iron – I take thryroxine and iron tabs as well). Recently researching on the net, I got to know that Acai berry and bee pollen benefits as well. There seems to be a lot out there, I don’t know what to take and what not to take. I wanted to know that if I replace bee pollen with spirulina(as they sound like they have similar benefits), is there anything I am missing out on? Will bee pollen make me gain weight?
Michelle replies:
Nikita, you are doing your body a lot of good by taking the spirulina, which is so rich in many nutrients, particularly amino acids. The amino acids are easily absorbed which makes spirulina a great choice for vegetarians, A blood group people and those who have a hard time digesting animal proteins. You are quite correct in taking the spirulina to keep your energy levels up as it is a high-energy food and, as weight gain concerns you, this superfood is also a good choice as it may act as an appetite suppressant and reduce food cravings (especially if taken 20 – 30 minutes before meals).
I agree that many of the benefits of bee pollen sound similar to those of spirulina. Bee pollen contains every known nutrient in trace amounts and in fact has the highest amino acid content of any known food. It is also highly energizing and actually combines well with spirulina and licorice as an energy tonic. Bee pollen is indicated as an aid for weight loss, so the risk of putting on weight by taking it is minimal.
Spirulina largely has an effect on the glandular system, liver, pancreas tail, pineal and pituitary whereas bee pollen affects blood, bones, the cardiovascular system, hypothalamus, liver, muscles, nerves, pituitary and respiratory system. In light of the above, I would probably stay on the spirulina as it targets more specifically the systems you seem to be having an issue with. As you are a “thyroid girl”, you would do well to add kelp or a kelp capsule to your diet as well.