Chlorella Review & Information: Is Chlorella A True SuperFood?

Chlorella is an edible species of algae. It is a single-celled organism that grows in water and has remarkable nutritional value. Chlorella is the oldest life form with a nucleus. It is able to divide and reproduce itself at a rate of about 4 cells per day.

By the early 1900's, scientists had recognized the nutritional value of chlorella and were beginning to consider the idea of making food from it. By the 1950's, it was believed that the rapid rate at which chlorella could be grown coupled with its remarkable nutritional value might make it a solution to world hunger. However, as rice and wheat became more readily available, the idea of marketing chlorella on a large scale was soon forgotten. Still, scientists continued to study the health benefits of the algae, and by the 1960's, chlorella was widely recognized as a super-nutrient.

Chlorella is about 58% protein and contains all of the B vitamins as well as vitamins C and E. Further, chlorella is an excellent source of amino acids and trace minerals. This tiny organism is, in effect, a complete food! High in fiber, chlorella is excellent for the health of the digestive tract.

It also contains high amounts of the valuable substance chlorophyll as well as the enzymes chlorophyllase and pepsin, which aid digestion. The high chlorophyll content of chlorella is credited with giving the algae properties that cleanse the bloodstream of toxins and protect the body from the effects of ultraviolet radiation.

Chlorella may also promote the flow of oxygen through the bloodstream, giving a person more energy. As a protein source, chlorella is especially valuable to vegetarians. Further, because it an alkaline substance, chlorella can help to maintain an optimal pH level in the body by counteracting the acidity of the modern highly processed, overcooked diet. Chlorella is also a source of beneficial bacteria that can help to maintain the balance of the digestive system.

In order to obtain the nutrients from chlorella, it must be processed properly. The cell walls of the organism make it difficult to access its nutrients unless it is processed for human consumption. Basically, manufacturers of chlorella supplements break down the cell walls of the algae so that humans can digest it. As a supplement, chlorella is available in tablet or capsule form and can be taken in doses of 3 grams per day, though many people take more. There are also liquid extracts of chlorella available.

Since it is a food, chlorella is generally safe and well tolerated by most people. It can take a few months for its benefits to noticed, and since chlorella works on the digestive system, many people experience gastrointestinal symptoms when they first start to take it. This is nothing more than chlorella going to work. If symptoms are severe or persistent, a person may want to take a lower dose of chlorella at first until the body adjusts to its cleansing effects.

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