Chlorella is a spherical-shaped algae that contains chlorophyll. It provides a range of vitamins, amino acids, and minerals. It’s commonly believed that it can serve as a source of food due to its high-nutrient content.
Chlorella is a single-celled algae, which makes large-scale harvest quite difficult. It is highly valued for its nucleotide-peptide complex, which promotes growth. This nutritional factor is derived by the process of hot water extract and is mostly composed of derivatives of nucleic acid. Research studies that have been conducted in the recent past have found that the growth factor is accelerated during the process of photosynthesis.
The cells divide and form four new cells after an interval of 20 hours, which promotes rapid production. Experiments have shown that the high protein content in this widely-acclaimed food source promotes faster growth of cells in the human body, besides enhancing DNA and RNA functions.
Benefits of Chlorella
Among the numerous health benefits it provides, the chlorophyll contained in it helps in preventing constipation. The amount of chlorophyll contained in a gram is the highest found among all other plants. For cleaning the liver, blood and for smooth bowel movement, chlorophyll is a reliable substance for consumption, yielding better health. Moreover, it is proved that it helps in excreting poisonous substances and heavy metals from the body.
It also act as a detoxifying agent by promoting the production of lactobacillus, a bacterium which helps in cleaning the colon. There are four ways in which it helps in constipation – it restores proper bowel movement, and helps in repairing damaged tissue of the bowel, detoxification and normalizing scent of bowel.
Moreover, it promotes metabolism and helps in healing wounds. Some of the other benefits are:
- Helping the growth of white blood cells
- Reducing the amount of cholesterol in the body
- Protection of the liver and the kidneys
- Healing skin ailments
- Prevention of high blood pressure
It stimulates the production of T-cells in the body, thereby improving the ability of the immune system to prevent diseases such as cancer.
It has been reported that high content of chlorophyll found in the algae, removes halitosis in just a few days. Chlorella supplements can be found in the form of granules, capsules, tablets, and powder, and these can be bought from any medical store. Research shows higher levels of protein found than dairy products.
Benefits for Children
Being rich in amino acids and proteins, it is highly beneficial for children. Sun chlorella is a satisfying nutrient-rich eatable to be given to growing minors. It has been purported to relieve stomach aches, irregularities, digestive disorders, and acts like a cleaning agent in the intestines. Moreover, it also helps in strengthening the immune system in children, and its high nutritional value helps in regaining energy and maintaining youthfulness.
It has been speculated that it has cancer-fighting properties to slow down the development of tumor and deters them from advancing further. Allergic reactions to chemicals are also reduced and helps to keep the cells healthy. The immune system is strengthened by forming healthy immunological memory system. Besides all the aforementioned health benefits, it can be easily assimilated by the body, making it one of the best nutritional supplement that can be ingested by kids and adults alike.
Side Effects
The use of chlorella doesn’t really cause any side effects as such, but reactions may occur due to poisonous chemicals that might get accumulated on algae growing in water bodies. The best way to have this healthy and nutritious food is by consuming supplements in the form of capsules, tablets, or granules. The cell walls of this algae are tough for digestion. Manufacturers use a scientific process to break the cell wall down before turning the algae flesh into capsules for consumption.
Disclaimer: This NutriNeat article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice.