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March 31, 2024
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Chlorella: Essential Nutrients For Proper Body Functioning

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Chlorella is a species of algae, small in size but huge in benefits. Its name is a reference to the high content of chlorophyll that it has, including the species with the highest amount of chlorophyll known so far. This makes it a product especially appreciated for its detoxifying power in the human body.

But this is not the only benefit attributed to chlorella, which is extremely rich in nutrients and therefore very valuable to health. It can help with weight loss, improved sleep, fight against free radicals, among other cases. Get to know this superfood better!

Content Index:

What is chlorella?
Benefits
Questions answered

What is chlorella?

Chlorella is a microscopic unicellular freshwater algae that has a great ability to perform photosynthesis. Flávia de Oliveira José, pharmacist at Doce Flora (CRF 33640) and coordinator of the pharmacy technical course at Esaup School of Piracicaba, explains that all Chlorella species have good digestibility in humans; Among them, the most common is Chlorella pyrenoidosa.

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It is a seaweed rich in chlorophyll, green pigment. that gives it color and also originates its name. In addition, it is rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals such as phosphorus, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, magnesium and calcium essential amino acids (even lipids) ?, highlights Flavia.

According to information from Chlorella Herbarium's own label, was it discovered by the Japanese? Do we usually use seaweed as food? and became popular for promoting a sense of well-being after a short period of use, according to the Easterners' findings.

Because chlorella accumulates during its growth, an enormous amount of chlorophyll, protein, and other nutrients essential to the proper functioning of the body, can offer incredible health benefits, when well indicated.

Benefits of chlorella

Superfood: Flávia comments that chlorella can be considered a superfood because it has high nutritional value, thus contributing to a healthy functioning of the body.
Detoxification Power: Being a rich source of chlorophyll, it contributes to the elimination of heavy metals such as aluminum, lead and mercury present in the human body.
Supplementation: The pharmacist explains that the product can be used for supplementation of vitamins and minerals; and because of its high protein content (60 to 70%), it can be eaten by vegans and vegetarians.
Slimming Allied: It helps in weight loss regimens, as it is a source of essential nutrients and, due to its high protein content, provides satiety and decreases binge eating.
Welfare: Chlorella contains tryptophan and thus contributes to a higher production of serotonin in the body, the happiness hormone.
Healing: Flávia adds that chlorella has action to stimulate tissue growth, being effective for healing cases.
Immune system improvement: The expert points out that chlorella strengthens the immune system, improving protection against various infections.
Antioxidant Effect: The pharmacist points out that the product also has an antioxidant effect, fighting free radicals, the? villains? of aging.
Vision Protection: In addition to its antioxidant action, chlorella contains lutein, a nutrient known as a vision protector.

With so many benefits it is easy to understand why this plant has become so appreciated!

Expert clarifies doubts about chlorella

Despite the numerous health benefits it offers, chlorella should not be regarded as "miraculous". And it is essential to know that even if it is a natural product, it has contraindications and should be used only when there is a medical indication.

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What is the difference between chlorella and spirulina? Flávia explains that, briefly, chorella is an algae, while spirulina is a cyanobacterium (ie bacteria that performs photosynthesis with O2 release). Although they have some similarities, they are different products, each of which is more or less indicated for each case. Chlorella, for example, being the richest chlorophyll plant in existence, provides unrivaled detoxification. Spirulina, in turn, is richer in protein and may be well suited for supplementing or supplementing a diet, for example.

Can chlorella be used for weight loss? Yes.By containing a large amount of protein in its composition, it helps in diets reducing appetite and binge eating. It also contains tryptophan, a serotonin precursor amino acid, making the person happier, less irritated and with better sleep quality. All this, combined with a low-calorie diet and exercise, provides weight loss ?, reinforces Flávia.

What is the indicated dose? Flávia explains that the proper dose depends on several factors, such as age, purpose, health condition of the person etc. There is not yet enough scientific information to determine an appropriate dose range for chlorella. Some studies speak of 500 mg about 30 minutes before main meals; others may reach up to 30 g per day. However, caution is always advised to gradually increase this dose, being aware of adverse effects, especially gastrointestinal, on the consumption of high doses ?, warns.

What are the necessary precautions for consumption? It is essential to know that not always natural products are totally safe and which dosage is an important issue in this regard. The higher the dose, the greater the adverse effects and damage when we think of drug interaction. Therefore, be sure to follow the instructions on the label and consult your doctor, pharmacist or trusted nutritionist before starting to use chlorella or any other product ?, advises Flavia.

Are there contraindications to the use of chlorella? Yes. It is contraindicated for phenylketonurics (as it contains phenylalanine) and for children; May cause reactions in people sensitive to iodine and allergic to fungi. Unless medically indicated, it is not recommended for people with a weak immune system and autoimmune diseases such as multiple sclerosis, lupus and rheumatoid arthritis (RA). There is insufficient information on the safety of taking chlorella during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so use is not recommended.

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Where to buy

Chlorella is usually available for sale in capsule, powder or tablet form, in online and physical health stores and in some drugstores. Check out some examples below: