Within the nutrition and wellness community, Chlorella, Spirulina and Blue Green Algae are considered to be potent superfoods. Each of these marine foods boast potent healing properties. These three nutrients, each an essential component to my favorite meal replacement shake, inspire me to study and share a little more about what I'm imbibing. My meanderings began with Chlorella.
Chlorella is a single-celled fresh water green algae that is a complete protein, containing 18 of 22 amino acids. It also has vitamins, minerals, fiber and chlorophyll. This algae is Japan’s best-selling nutritional supplement, as it contains a high amount of chlorophyll (a pigment in green plants that functions as a highly versatile detoxifier and cleanser).
Research indicates that Chlorella is helpful in building the immune system by stimulating the activity of macrophages and T-cells. This increases interferon levels, which enhances the immune system’s ability to fight foreign invaders. Anecdotal evidence suggests that this boost to the immune system is helpful in fighting cancer.
Chlorella has also been cited as a detoxifier, neutralizing and removing toxins from the body. The fibrous outer membrane of Chlorella is especially beneficial for intestinal health, promoting friendly bacteria within the colon and ultimately improving digestion (Chlorella prompts intestinal Lactobacillus to multiply four times the normal rate). Further cleansing abilities of chlorella involve the bloodstream, as Chlorella helps protect the liver.
The antioxidant properties of Chlorella are found in the abundance of Vitamins A, C, E and beta carotene. These help the body repair and recover from cancer-causing free radicals. Chlorella is a rich source of the mineral magnesium, which is especially beneficial in heart health, regulation of blood pressure, control of blood sugar, prevention of stroke, enhancement of muscle strength/relaxation and overall energy production.
Chlorella has nucleic acids RNA and DNA. There are 17 times more RNA/DNA in Chlorella than there are in sardines, which was once praised as the highest food source of RNA/DNA. This is known to promote rapid and healthy growth cellular growth.