Discover all the benefits of chlorella, an alga with exceptional nutritional properties that make it one of the best natural supplements especially for vegetarians and vegans as it is rich in noble proteins and bioavailable iron
La chlorella (Chlorella), o chlorella seaweed, is a unicellular microalgae that lives in fresh waters. It is considered an algae useful for detoxifying the body as it promotes the expulsion of waste and counteracts the accumulation of heavy metals. There are 30 different species of chlorella algae, but only two types (Chlorella vulgaris and Chlorella pyrenoidosa) are commonly used and researched to determine their nutritional properties.
Since chlorella has a hard cell wall that we are unable to digest, it should be taken as a supplement to reap its benefits, particularly in the form of capsules, tablets, powder and extracts. Taking natural supplements based on chlorella algae can help reduce inflammatory states and allergic reactions caused by the accumulation of heavy metals in the body. Chlorella is one vegetable source of protein, vitamins and minerals.
In addition to being used as a natural food supplement, chlorella is also used as a biodiesel fuel
Index
Properties and benefits of chlorella
Exceptional nutritional profile
Just like spirulina, chlorella algae has an impressive nutritional profile that has earned it, over the years, popularity and the nickname of "superfood". In particular:
- Source of noble proteins: Chlorella contains 50-60% complete protein, which means it contains all nine essential amino acids
- Rich in vitamins: the chlorella seaweed contains Vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamins of group B and vitamin E which together favor the correct metabolism of the organism, are beneficial for sight and help to counteract premature aging and the action of free radicals. Some varieties of chlorella may also contain vitamin B12, so they are particularly suitable for those who follow a vegan diet
- Rich in iron: Chlorella can be a good vegetable source of iron and being also an excellent source of Vitama C, which helps our body to absorb it, can provide 4 to 40% of the daily requirement;
- Rich in good fats: like other algae, chlorella contains some omega-3s. Just 3 grams of chlorella provides 100 mg of omega-3s
Helps detoxify heavy metals
The chlorella alga, together with coriander (fresh leaves), has a high "chelating" power and is used above all to remove accumulations of heavy metals in a natural way from our body. Additionally, chlorella has been shown to help reduce the amount of other harmful chemicals that are sometimes found in foods. One of these is the dioxin, a hormone destroyer that can contaminate animals in the food supply and beyond. The detoxifying effects of chlorella are so powerful that they are effective in the purification of polluted water. You can ask your herbalist for more information about the use of chlorella to counteract excess heavy metals, so that he can indicate the correct therapy to follow.
Enhance the Immune System
However, chlorella is not just a natural remedy for detoxification. In fact, it helps strengthen the immune system and prevent bacterial and viral infections, including the cold. Chlorella has been shown in various studies (although still limited at the time) to be useful for strengthen the immune system of the body and to help it purify itself, especially of heavy metals. Its chlorellin content gives the chlorella alga an antibiotic activity. Chlorella it is rich in chlorophyll and is considered one of the most suitable restorative foods to support the immune system.
Reduces cholesterol
Several studies have suggested that chlorella supplements can help lower the cholesterol bad, especially the intake of 5-10 grams of chlorella per day reduced total cholesterol, Ldl and triglycerides in people with high blood pressure. Additionally, the nutrients found in chlorella including niacin, fiber, carotenoids and antioxidants can help improve blood lipid levels.
It is a powerful antioxidant
In addition, chlorella contains chlorophyll, vitamin C, beta-carotene, lycopene and lutein, with extraordinary properties antioxidants. A scientific study has shown that the intake of this alga can reduce the production of end products of advanced glycation (AGE). The chlorella algae would be able to slow down the aging process of genes, as confirmed by another experiment conducted in the laboratory. Finally, this superfood can prove to be particularly useful in heavy smokers (more exposed to oxidative stress): a study showed an increase in antioxidant levels in smokers, associated with the intake of chlorella algae supplements.
Regulates blood pressure
Chlorella algae also has amazing effects on blood pressure, thus preserving heart and kidney health. A study has confirmed that people suffering from high blood pressure can lower it by taking supplements based on this algae. However, other scientific research has shown that taking chlorella algae supplements is associated with less stiffness of the arteries, a factor that greatly affects blood pressure. This is due to the presence of certain nutrients, including arginine, potassium, calcium and omega-3, which help protect arteries from hardening.
Improve blood sugar levels
Chlorella is also valuable for regulating blood sugar levels. This is confirmed by a study conducted on some subjects (17 healthy and 17 at risk of diabetes) who took chlorella-based supplements on an empty stomach for 12 weeks. Other scientific research has also shown that thanks to chlorella it is possible to better control blood sugar and keep insulin at bay, particularly in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Helps cure respiratory diseases
Not everyone knows that chlorella algae can be a valuable aid for those suffering from respiratory diseases such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). In fact, this alga contributes to reducing inflammation in the lungs: according to a study, chlorella-based supplements are, in fact, able to improve the health conditions in COPD patients.
Helps to increase aerobic endurance
Finally, this superfood is able to improve aerobic endurance, thereby increasing the ability to saturate the lungs with oxygen. To confirm this umpteenth property is a study carried out a few years ago: the researchers administered six grams of chlorella to a group of subjects (about 20 years old) for four weeks. At the end of the experiment, a better saturation capacity of the lungs was found. According to scholars, it would be thanks to the branched amino acids of which chlorella is very rich.
The intake of this alga is therefore particularly suitable for those who want to improve their aerobic endurance and try less during training.
The other advantages of the chlorella seaweed
But the health benefits of chlorella algae don't end there. This microalga has other lesser known properties:
- Improves eye health as it contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two carotenoids that protect the eye and reduce the risk of macular degeneration
- Protects the liver: Chlorella supplements have been shown to improve markers of liver health in people with liver problems
- Promotes digestion
- It is an ally against PMS: scientific studies have shown that chlorella can relieve pre-cycle symptoms thanks to its calcium and B vitamins contribution
Where to find chlorella
You can find chlorella in herbal medicine And in the natural product shops. You will notice that Chlorella is available in both powder and capsule and tablet form. Follow the instructions for taking according to the type of product you have purchased and the advice of the herbalist. For example, you can add powdered chlorella to a glass of water, juice or smoothie so you can take it with drinks.
Controindicazioni
Chlorella is very useful in purifying treatments but it should not be taken for more than 1 or 2 consecutive months. It all depends on your health conditions and how your body reacted to the heavy metal detox. Your doctor and herbalist will be able to provide you with more information on this. For example, you can stop taking it for a while and then resume it.
The intake of chlorella is not recommended in case of immunodeficiency and autoimmune diseases. Chlorella may contain iodine: therefore beware of those suffering from allergies to this substance or thyroid problems.
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Read also:
- Algae: the different types, properties and how to use them
- How to cleanse yourself of heavy metals: 10 foods and natural remedies
- 10 natural and effective supplements
- Spirulina and seaweed supplements: contain too many heavy metals
