How does spirulina compare to other superfoods?

Published: October 12, 2025
Updated: October 12, 2025

Spirulina is superior to other superfood rival varieties in protein content and iron that is bioavailable, but each offers its unique advantages. Spirulina contains 60-70% complete protein per gram, while moringa is about 40% and chlorella is 50%. Spirulina leads the field. It's special phycocyanin antioxidant gives cell protection lacking in others.

Protein Superiority

  • Spirulina: 60-70% complete protein with all essential amino acids
  • Moringa: 40% protein but lacks some essential amino acids
  • Chlorella: 50% protein but harder to digest without processing

Antioxidant Profile

  • Spirulina's phycocyanin reduces inflammation markers 30-40%
  • Moringa offers quercetin for circulation support
  • Chlorella contains chlorophyll for detoxification benefits

Mineral Absorption

  • Spirulina's iron absorbs 2x better than plant-based alternatives
  • Moringa provides more calcium but with lower bioavailability
  • Chlorella offers B12 but requires cell wall breakdown
Superfood Nutrient Comparison (per 10g serving)
NutrientProteinSpirulina
6g
Moringa
4g
Chlorella
5g
NutrientIronSpirulina
3.5mg (20% DV)
Moringa
1.2mg (7% DV)
Chlorella
2.5mg (14% DV)
NutrientAntioxidantsSpirulina
Phycocyanin (unique)
Moringa
Quercetin
Chlorella
Chlorophyll
NutrientFiberSpirulina
0.3g
Moringa
2.4g
Chlorella
0.8g
Data from USDA FoodData Central

When it comes to oxygen-related benefits such as athletic performance, spirulina wins for iron bioavailability. Moringa, however, is better for fiber in terms of digestion, and chlorella is best at detoxifying heavy metals. So I put them together strategically, using spirulina for morning energy, and moringa for gut health.

Choose according to your own health priorities. If you want spirulina for protein or iron, if you want moringa for fiber or calcium, or chlorella for detox. They work very well in combination. I often mix a total of 5g into my workout shakes: 3g spirulina with 2g moringa. But whatever combination you make, make sure to check the third party purity testing.

Read the full article: 10 Powerful Benefits of Spirulina Powder

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