The Benefits of Spirulina and How It Can Help Your Running
Runner's World
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Spirulina, a blue-green algae known as cyanobacteria, has long been valued by indigenous cultures and even astronauts for its exceptional nutritional benefits. This ancient superfood, harvested from man-made lagoons and dried into powder, offers a range of potential advantages for athletes. While scientific research supports some of its benefits, more studies are needed to fully understand its impact.
One key benefit of spirulina is its potential to enhance sports performance. Research suggests that it may increase hemoglobin levels, improving oxygen delivery to muscles during exercise. A study found that runners who took spirulina could run longer before fatigue and burned fat more efficiently. However, while these results are promising, other studies have shown increased hemoglobin without significant performance improvements, indicating the need for further research, particularly among female athletes
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Originally published on Runner's World on 2/25/2026