Top 7 Benefits of Chlorella

Chlorella is a type of algae that grows in fresh water, mainly in Taiwan and Japan. When it was first discovered and harvested (after WWII), chlorella was studied as a potential food source because it is high in protein and other essential nutrients and can be mass-produced inexpensively. The whole plant is processed and made into supplements and extracts which are a good source of protein, fats, carbohydrates, fiber, chlorophyll, vitamins, and minerals. It is also abundant in calories. Some of the amazing nutrients contained on chlorella are:

• Carotenoids like vitamin A (beta-carotene) and alpha-carotene, and lutein.
• Powerful antioxidant vitamins C, D, E, and vitamin K.
• A higher concentration of chlorophyll than any other plant on earth.
• The B-vitamins – thiamine (B1), riboflavin (B2), pyridoxine (B6), niacin, pantothenic acid, folic acid, vitamin B12, biotin, choline.
• Minerals including: phosphorus, calcium, zinc, magnesium,and iron;
• Healthy fats like oleic acid, a balanced supply of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids;
• Nucleic acids for building DNA and RNA

A 2001 study published in the Alternative Therapies in Health and Medicine journal showed that chlorella could reduce blood pressure, lower cholesterol, accelerate wound healing and boost immune function. These results lead the researchers to conclude: “The potential of chlorella to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and normalize body functions in patients with fibromyalgia, hypertension, or ulcerative colitis suggests that larger, more comprehensive clinical trials of chlorella are warranted.”

Chlorella has been used to boost the immune system, as part of a cancer treatment regime, and to improve digestion and intestinal issues. Some people have had wonderful results using this plant to prevent stress-related issues such as ulcers and hypertension. Chlorella has also been applied to the skin to treat skin ulcers and rashes. My favorite way to use Chlorella is to add it to our green smoothie.

Are you using chlorella as part of your health regime? Learn more here: Numerous Studies Validate Chlorella’s ‘Superfood’ Status