C.anapa and spirulina are between the beneficial ingredients most purchased by Italians. This is what emerges from the latest edition ofImagine Observatory of GS1 Italy, from which it clearly emerges that the “hunger” for healthy products is increasing.
Hemp: because it is good for you
According to reports from L’Osservatorio Immagino, “the phenomenon of 2021 was undoubtedly hemp: driven by infusions, its turnover increased by + 31.4%, reaching 3.5 million euros”. But why is it good? «Hemp oil is known to be one of the few food sources of alpha linolenic acidan essential fatty acid of the family Omega 3. It is therefore useful against coronary heart disease, in countering high blood pressure, in combating excess fat in the blood and in generally decreasing the risk of mortality due to heart problems. THE hemp seedsthen, they contain proteins and fibers, omega 3 and 6and are also useful for the cardiovascular and neurological protection», Explains the Doctor Elisabetta Macorsininutrition biologist from Humanitas Medical Care – Humanitas Mater Domini Hospital.
The importance of omega 3
«What particularly characterizes hemp oil is balanceone of a kind, between the quantity of omega 6 and omega 3 present in it, in a ratio of 3 to 1 respectively. This makes this oil particularly indicated for the well-being of the whole organism. An excessive intake of omega 6 fatty acids, in fact, if not balanced by an adequate intake of omega 3, would seem to favor the development of various inflammatory disorders and increase the risk of onset of cardiovascular diseases. The presence of vitamin E and phytosterols», Continues the expert.
Spirulina: what it is and what it is used for
Spirulina is a blue algae that grows in the waters of African and Mexican salt lakes and in some freshwater lakes. “It is used as source of vitamin B12 and proteins of non-animal origin. Many benefits have been attributed to it. Between these: cancer prevention, treatment of infections, fight against allergieslike hay fever, liver protectionhelp for improve cholesterol levels in the blood e reduce weight», Underlines Dr. Macorsini.
Benefits and contraindications
«Scientific studies suggest that spirulina could increase the production of immune system cells involved in fighting infections and that could help fight some chronic diseases. However, it does not appear that theEfsa, the European Food Safety Authority, has approved any claim to that effect. It should also be noted that the shape of vitamin B12 present in spirulina seems not to be easily absorbed by the human body. Also, despite being rich in protein, spirulina supplements fail to meet the needs of the body. They are to be preferred legumes, dried fruit and cereals, excellent sources of vegetable protein, moreover less expensive. Finally, spirulina could be contraindicated in case of gout, autoimmune diseases, kidney stones, pregnancy or breastfeeding and is to be avoided in case of phenylketonuria», Concludes the expert.
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