Chlorella the green super food
Chlorella is a member of green microalgae representing the richest natural source of chlorophyll, but also contains significant amounts of beta carotene, mixed carotenoids, vitamin B12, vitamin C, iron and protein. It grows in fresh water, and has occurred about two and a half billion years ago and is one of the oldest forms of life on Earth. Today this herb is known as a super food that is a dietary supplement with exceptional nutritional value. It is one of the rare water algae that can be eaten.
It is an exceptional source of protein – in dried form has even 45 percent protein and is great for vegetarians, athletes and people who are prone to obesity. It is also and quality source of amino acids, magnesium, iron and trace minerals. It contains all the vitamins from the B group, C, vitamin E and beta-carotene. It is rich in fiber. This alga is one of the fastest growing plants on Earth and the most powerful source of pure chlorophyll, which is available to us. Chlorophyll is identical to human blood, except the central (main) element – in the blood it is iron and in chlorophyll – magnesium. Therefore chlorella is simply perfect for the health.
It protects against radiation and heavy metals
The main reason for popularity of chlorella is its power to detoxify the body. Russian research has found that this algae effectively removes heavy metals from the body. Also taking chlorella reduces tissue damage caused by such poisoning. Heavy metals are generally difficult to release the body’s system.
They can be find at people who still have amalgam fillings, those working in separate industries that have been exposed to radiation. Most of the people is partly poisoned with heavy metals because it is impossible to avoid them in the area, and are found in food. The presence of heavy metals in the body is associated with many diseases. Other research has linked the presence of heavy metals in the body for some forms of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Chlorella is a great help in removing toxins, radiation and heavy metals. This algae contains unique phytonutrients that bind to and remove toxins from the body.
Chlorella health benefits
The centuries-old use of algae in many cultures proved many advantages of her using against many diseases.
Several studies have shown that chlorella can be effective in treating some types of cancer. Several scientists believe that Chlorella stimulates the activity of T-cells, important components of the immune system and macrophages, which are large cells that protect against infections by removing waste products harmful microorganisms and other toxins from the bloodstream. Increased production of T-cells and macrophages increases levels of interferon in the body, enhancing the immune system’s ability to combat invasion of viruses, bacteria and chemicals. Interferon is a protein associated with the immune system, produced by the body and has antiviral and antitumor activity.
- Purifies the blood, and optimizes the amount of oxygen.
- Has alkali effect – neutralize the increased acidity of the body, which is a base for many diseases.
- Relieves inflammation and improves the immune system.
- Reduces blood pressure and helps in the treatment of fibromyalgia.
- Act as a natural deodorant – removes unpleasant odors from the body such as breath and the smell of sweat.
- Balances the work of hormones and helps with the symptoms of PMS and menopause.
- Accelerates the metabolism. Namely, the fibrous materials in chlorella improve digestion and accelerate the growth of beneficial bacteria in the stomach.
Chlorella can help to reduce blood pressure in some people with hypertension (high blood pressure). A study published in March 2003 in the journal Original Internist showed that treatment with 10 grams of chlorella daily for three months significantly improves blood pressure in 25% of patients included in the study.
Chlorella is alkaline food that helps to balance the pH in the body. The body is very important to be in a neutral pH balance because the acidic environment leads to a series of diseases.
Chlorella supplement
Chlorella is available in the form of tablets or powders. It can be taken with water, juice or other beverage. Due to the toxic load that the average person carries in the body, people who will start drinking chlorella could feel the side effects of detoxification – gas, nausea and diarrhea. It is therefore better to start to take it on a weekend or drunk in small quantities and then gradually increasing the dosage. Possible symptoms of toxin elimination will pass in a few days. The recommended dose is 1 to 5 grams per day. It should be taken half an hour before meals with a glass of water or fruit juice.
In people with autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus, rheumatoid arthritis and other chlorella can cause the immune system to become more active, and this may increase symptoms of autoimmune diseases. Therefore in such cases it is best to avoid the use of chlorella.
Also it is not recommended for people who are sensitive to iodine, because it is possible that chlorella contains the same and can cause an allergic reaction.
Chlorella and Spirulina
Chlorella and Spirulina are microscopic plants that grow in fresh water. They are actually called micro-algae because they are microscopic forms of algae. They are one of the earliest and simplest life forms on the planet, appearing long before the animals to walk on this earth.
These micro-algae contain rather amazing array of nutrients: vitamins, macrominerals, trace minerals, essential fatty acids, proteins, nucleic acids (RNA and DNA), chlorophyll and a wide range of phytochemicals. They are thought to contain every nutrient required by the human body. Yes, you can literally live off these micro-algae. You do not have much to eat, too, because they are nutritionally rich.
“Micro” part of their name is not a joke: this superfood has a size in the range of 2 to 8 microns, which are almost the same size as a human blood cell. If chlorella and spirulina are sold with “Nutritional table,” they label will truly be impressive: zero refined carbohydrates, rich in digestible protein, rich in essential fatty acids, without the “bad” fat, rich in chlorophyll and so on.
Chlorella vs. Spirulina
Although we talked about chlorella and spirulina as twins, however each of them has a unique nutritional profile. So although it is recommended to be taken both as part of every meal however one of them may be more necessary under certain circumstances.
Here is the result:
Chlorella:
A better source of chlorophyll, which detoxifies and cleans more.
It is especially good for people with liver disorders or people who drink and smoke.
It helps in people who suffer from constipation.
It is especially good for people who need “re-building” – those who suffer from degenerative diseases (muscle, nervous system, etc.) or people who are not immune. Contains Chlorella Growth Factor (CGF), which stimulates the immune system, pulls cancer and provide other health benefits. CGF also helps rebuild nerve tissue anywhere in the body and is excellent for treating degenerative diseases of the brain and nervous disorders.
Spirulina:
- Superior source of digestible protein. It contains 12 times more than beef.
- Easier for the digestive system than chlorella, who can cause diarrhea in sensitive individuals.
- Contains phycocyanin, a powerful anti-cancer phytochemicals that also gives to spirulina characteristic blue tint.
As you can see, Chlorella and Spirulina provide a wide range of health benefits, and many of their features overlap. It is therefore recommended both be consumed in sufficient quantities. As a general rule, you should take spirulina and chlorella in relation 2: 1. In other words, if you take 10 grams of spirulina per day, take 5 grams of chlorella, too. If you have a specific health condition, increase the consumption of micro-algae as best suited to your condition.
Healthy Chlorella Smoothie
Here are some recipes for inspiration:
Green smoothie
4 oranges
1 banana
2 kiwi
1 chard
1 spoon of chlorella
All ingredients are put in a blender and blend until the mixture is homogeneous. Add water to 1 or 1.5 liter and enjoy morning smoothie.
Smoothie with apple, cucumber, celery, lemon and chlorella
2 green apples
1/2 cucumber
few celery leaves (optional)
1 lemon (squeezed)
1/2 teaspoon chlorella
Smoothie is best to be consumed in the morning, after first drinking a glass of warm water with a little lemon squeezed into it.
Make 1.5-2 liters, and drink it slowly during the morning … Enjoy!
