We asked registered dietitian nutritionist, Kim Rose, to clue us in on what the superfood health benefits of chlorella are. Here's what she had to say...
Chlorella is an edible freshwater algae that not only has an impressive color, but touts some pretty impressive nutritive benefits. Don’t believe me? Here are four bona fide reasons why you should consider adding chlorella to your diet:
Reason #1: It’s loaded with vitamins.
Chlorella has a plethora of different vitamins. It contains B vitamins, which play a major role in the growth and function of the cells. There's vitamin K, which helps to build bones and make proteins that are needed to help the blood clot. Also in the mix is choline, a major player in the preservation of memory and thinking ability.
Reason #2: It has antioxidant prowess.
Move over plant-based oils; chlorella contains vitamin E as well! Vitamin E is a fat-soluble vitamin that contains powerful antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are tiny, invisible compounds that help protect the cells of the body from oxidative damage. They're a beautiful thing.
Reason #3: It enhances the immune system.
Believe it or not, chlorella may enhance the immune system. In a small, eight week study conducted in 2012, results suggested that chlorella may help to stimulate the immune system (1). Even though larger studies are needed before a precise conclusion can be made, chlorella is likely to hold promising benefits in this regard.
Reason #4: It’s full of protein.
Protein is found among both animal and plant-based sources. My favorite plant-based sources of protein include nuts, seeds and chlorella, as chlorella is chock-full of protein. Quite impressively, the protein content in chlorella is higher than that of soybeans by weight (2). Protein is the building block of muscle and tissue. Protein can also fill you up and improve satiety. I'd say that's a pretty big deal!
The Bottom Line:
Chlorella is a great nutritive-rich ingredient. It’s full of antioxidants, vitamins and protein. Though nutrient content varies by brand, at the end of the day, you're getting some great grub.
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References:
(1) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22849818/
(2) https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7551956/