11 Amazing Chlorella Benefits
How would it feel to have more energy, better health, and clearer skin? Chlorella, a single-celled green alga, provides these benefits and more.
This superfood contains many nutrients like chlorophyll, protein, vitamins, and minerals. Chlorella is also a rich source of antioxidants and has anti-inflammatory properties.
More research is necessary to confirm to what extent of chlorella benefits. However, there is promising evidence that this nutrient-dense superfood can enhance your life in various ways.
Below are surprising health benefits of chlorella supported by science. Do you take your supplements like some unavoidable horrid medication? Worry not. We also included exciting ways to take chlorella, besides other must-know topics in the FAQ section.
Dive in.
What Exactly Is Chlorella?
Chlorella is amongst the oldest living organisms, dating back 3.5 billion years. It is a green, one-celled organism that is spherical. Chlorella grows naturally in warm, freshwater environments like ponds and rivers. A few marine chlorella types exist too.
There are over 100 species of chlorella, but only a handful are available commercially. The most common species are vulgaris and pyrenoidosa. Chlorella is used in various industries as a dietary supplement, natural food coloring agent, and alternative fuel source.
Thanks to CGF, chlorella grows faster than spirulina, which lacks this component.
Chlorella features a cellulose cell wall. Hence, it must undergo processing before human intake to allow us to get its nutrients. It is available in several forms, including powder, extract, capsule, and tablet. Each form has its own set of pros and cons.
The powder is the most versatile form but the messiest. Chlorella extract may taste better than powder, but it is more expensive. Capsules and tablets are the most convenient forms but take longer to absorb.
You must get your chlorella from a trusted supplier. Remeber to read reviews on Amazon! Let us begin with Sunlit Best Green Organics.
The Advantages of Chlorella
What is chlorella for? This supplement provides many health benefits, like chlorella acne prevention, detoxification, and immune function. Let’s get a closer look.
Very Nourishing
There are many nutrients in chlorella. This green alga is a good source of protein, providing about six for every ten grams.
What’s more, chlorella is rich in vitamins and minerals. Whereas spirulina only gives 0.03 times the daily value of vitamin A per ounce, chlorella provides almost thrice.
The superfood provides almost twice as much magnesium as spirulina. It also has more vitamin B1, phosphorus, iron, and copper than spirulina. These nutrients make chlorella a nourishing food that may boost health in various ways.
Chlorella is a rich source of chlorophyll, a pigment that gives plants their green color. Chlorophyll has potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Chlorella may also help improve skin health due to chlorophyll’s anti-aging effects.
There are several benefits of chlorella for skincare enthusiasts. Its rich supply of antioxidants fights free radicals to lower skin blemishes and keep your epidermis healthy.
Chlorella may help improve digestion. This green alga has lots of fiber, which is essential for digestive health. Fiber helps add bulk to stool and promotes regularity. It also helps feed the friendly bacteria in your gut, which are essential for digestive and overall health.
Detoxification
Chlorella provides one of the best all-natural ways to detox your body. It is a rich source of chlorophyll, which binds to heavy metals and other toxins in the body and helps eliminate them.
In a study of 58 people, those who took chlorella supplements significantly decreased mercury levels than the control group.
Another study showed that chlorella supplementation reduced lead and cadmium levels in people with high exposure to these toxins.
Chlorella may help protect against cancer. Since chlorophyll helps in toxin elimination, it lowers cancer chances. Chlorella is also a good source of beta-glucans, stimulating the immune system and helping the body fight cancer.
Boost Immune System
Chlorella may help enhance immunity. Its beta-glucans, a type of fiber, can stimulate the immune system. Beta-glucans can also help reduce the severity and duration of colds and other infections.
Its high chlorophyll content provides anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties.
Chlorella also boosts the immune system by increasing antibody and white blood cell production. These two destroy viruses and bacteria, defending us from infections.
Help Lower Cholesterol
Chlorella may help lower cholesterol levels. This green alga is a rich source of plant sterols, compounds that can help reduce cholesterol levels.
In a study of people with high cholesterol, those who took chlorella supplements significantly decreased LDL (bad) cholesterol than the control group. They also had an increase in HDL (good) cholesterol.
Another study showed that chlorella supplementation improved cholesterol levels in people with type 2 diabetes.
Antioxidant Properties
Oxidative stress arises when there is a mismatch between our ability to detoxify free radicals and their production. Free radicals are volatile structures that can cause cellular damage and swelling.
Chronic oxidative stress may cause several diseases, including cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s.
Fortunately, chlorella is a rich source of antioxidants. This alga has higher antioxidant activity than many green vegetables like spinach and kale.
What’s more, chlorella may help reduce oxidative stress. One study in rats found that treatment with chlorella reduced oxidative stress markers and improved liver function.
Aids in the Control of Blood Pressure
Chlorella may help lower blood pressure. It is a rich source of magnesium, a mineral shown to lower blood pressure.
In a study conducted with rats, those injected with chlorella considerably lowered systolic blood pressure than the control. Another research showed that chlorella supplementation enhanced blood pressure in those with type 2 diabetes.
According to a study, vitamin B2, present in chlorella, lowers blood pressure by as much as 13 mmHg.
Could Help With Blood Sugar Levels
This supplement is a good source of alpha-glucosidase inhibitors, compounds that slow the breakdown of carbohydrates into sugar. This action may help prevent spikes in blood sugar levels after eating.
In a study with diabetic mice, those who took chlorella supplements had lower blood sugar levels than the control group.
Another study showed that chlorella supplementation improved blood sugar control in overweight men.
Could Aid in the Management of Respiratory Diseases
Chlorella may help protect against respiratory diseases like bronchitis and asthma. This green alga contains high chlorophyll levels with potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Some studies show that chlorophyll may help reduce the symptoms of respiratory diseases like bronchitis, rhinitis, and asthma.
For example, one study in rats found that treatment with chlorophyll reduced inflammation in the airways and improved rhinitis symptoms.
Another study in rats found that chlorella helped reduce inflammation and improve asthma symptoms.
Though more research is necessary, these findings suggest that chlorella may help protect against respiratory diseases.
Improves Endurance Capacity
Chlorella increases energy levels and improves your endurance. It enhances endurance capacity by increasing the efficiency of oxygen utilization and energy production in the cells.
Also, chlorella helps protect the cells from damage caused by exercise and other stressors. This green alga is a rich source of iron, a mineral that plays a crucial role in energy production.
Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutrient deficiencies and is a significant cause of fatigue. With chlorella, you boost your energy levels, hence, lowering tiredness.
In a study of 46 women with fatigue, those who took chlorella supplements for eight weeks increased performance and mitochondria generation more than the placebo. Mitochondria conduct chemical energy generation vital for endurance and better health.
Another study with 806 participants showed that chlorella supplementation improved fatigue and sleep subscales by 20% and 18%, respectively.
Additionally, chlorella contains B vitamins, which are essential for energy production. These act as coenzymes, vital in processing substances into energy.
A study of 517 18-28-year-old male athletes showed increased blood pressure lowered their performance. Since chlorella’s vitamin B2 lowers blood pressure, it helps improve resilience during exercise.
Reduces the Risk of Anemia During Pregnancy
Anemia is a common problem during pregnancy due to the increased demand for iron. Pregnant mums have a double iron demand for catering to baby development. If left untreated, maternal anemia can lead to severe complications for the mother and child.
Fortunately, chlorella is a rich source of iron. A hundred grams of dry chlorella provides 100mg of iron. In other words, 14g of the superfood is enough to provide you with your required daily iron intake.
Additionally, chlorella may improve iron absorption. It contains 1% vitamin C, a vital component in iron absorption.
Boost Brain Power
Since it is a rich source of chlorophyll, chlorella helps protect the brain from damage. Chlorophyll achieves this through its antioxidation properties vital in cell preservation. The plant-coloring matter also aids in hand-eye coordination and memorability.
Chlorella’s B-vitamins are essential for brain health too. For example, chlorella has 50% more vitamin B6 than beef liver. With this vitamin, the superfood aid in neurotransmitter generation. Vitamin B6 may also help with memory loss.
In a study on rats, those given chlorella significantly improved cognitive function compared to the control group. The research determined that chlorella protects the brain from ethanol degeneration.
Also, given its omega 3s, chlorella boosts brain development in babies, enhances memory, and slows brain aging.
How To Use Chlorella in Food
You can take chlorella in several ways. One way is to mix the powder with water or juice and drink it. You can also add it to smoothies or soups.
If you take chlorella in tablet form, consume it with water or juice. You can take chlorella extract by itself or add it to water, juice, or smoothies. It is also possible to buy chlorella-flavored snacks, such as chips or crackers.
To use chlorella in food, add the desired amount of chlorella powder or liquid to any dish. Chlorella has a robust taste. So it is best to start with a small amount and increase as desired.
When taking chlorella, starting with a small dose and increasing gradually as your body adjusts is essential. Drink plenty of water to help flush out the toxins that chlorella aids in removing from your body.
You can take the superfood daily or as needed. If you are taking it for detoxification, you may want to take it for a week or two, then take a break for a week or two. If you are taking it for general health, you can take it daily.
What Does Chlorella Do for Your Body?
Chlorella does many health-boosting activities for your body. Some of chlorella pyrenoidosa/ chlorella vulgaris benefits include:
- boosting the immune system
- fighting off infections
- helping to detoxify the body
- improving digestion
- aiding in weight loss
- reducing inflammation
- lowering blood pressure
- improving cholesterol levels
- protecting against cancer
- providing a natural source of energy.
Can You Have Chlorella Every Day?
Provided you aren’t in unsuitable user groups; you can have chlorella every day. However, experts recommend continuous intake for two to three months.
Some people may have a few side effects like nauseous, an upset stomach, or diarrhea. If you experience any chlorella dangers, reduce your dosage or discontinue use.
Who Should Not Take Chlorella?
Although pregnant mothers can enjoy this superfood’s benefits, they should not take chlorella past six months. Also, those breastfeeding should keep off.
People with seafood allergies should not take chlorella, as it is a type of algae. Those with bleeding disorders or taking blood-thinning medications should use caution when taking chlorella.
The diabetic or those with hypoglycemia need close monitoring if taking chlorella, as they may lower blood sugar levels. Plus, those with autoimmune disorders should use caution when taking chlorella, as it may exacerbate symptoms.
How Much Chlorella Should I Take Daily?
Depending on the previous usage, you should take 3-10 grams of chlorella daily. It is best to start with three grams and increase as needed. Some people may need up to 10 grams to achieve desired effects.
Conclusion
Chlorella is a nutrient-dense superfood, providing many health benefits like
- Energy level boosts
- Better skin health
- Lower blood sugar levels
- Enhanced immunity
- Cancer protection
- Reduced inflammation
- Improved brain health
- Lowered blood pressure.
Given these many chlorella benefits, you must be dying to add or replenish your supplies. However, you can’t grow chlorella at home and consume it straight from harvesting like spirulina.
You must get your chlorella from a reputable supplier if you hope to get filler-free superfoods. Our fresh, quality Sunlit Chlorella Tablet supplements ensure you reap all these advantages without added baggage. Boost your health correctly!
