Chlorella is an alga that is credited with a number of health-promoting properties. It is supposed to improve the body’s efficiency during exercise, help replenish vitamin and mineral deficiencies, and lower cholesterol.
Kaszowe superfoods – what to choose?
Argon – what is it and can it be harmful? Karol, 40 years old
Po co chlorella?
There are plenty of supplements on store shelves that have a comprehensive impact on our body. They include, among others chlorella. Can this inconspicuous powder really increase the body’s efficiency and help with deficiencies?
Chlorella is a freshwater green algae often sold as a supplement. Indeed – it contains a number of nutrients, including amino acids (e.g. branched chain amino acids – BCAA or arginine), chlorophyll, polyunsaturated fatty acids as well as vitamins and mineralsh. Thanks to this composition, its possibilities of acting on the body are very wide.
Chlorella for athletes
The branched chain amino acids BCAA and arginine in chlorella have the potential to increase performance and endurance in people who exercise without manifest nutritional deficiencies. Initially, such an effect was observed in animal studies, later the hypothesis was also confirmed for humans.
Cholesterol supplement
Daily consumption of chlorella supplements leads to a reduction in blood triglycerides and total cholesterol levels in people with moderate hypercholesterolaemia. A key role in this action is attributed to the carotenoids and omega-3 fatty acids contained in these algae. Studies have shown that supplementation with chlorella, thanks to the content of antioxidants, reduces arterial stiffness, thus reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It turns out that 3-9 g of the supplement a day is enough to compensate for mild hyperglycemia.
Chlorella and vision
Chlorella contains a large amount carotenoids, and especially luteinIt is no wonder then that studies have begun to investigate its possible effects on improving the level of carotenoids in human blood. It turns out that taking Chlorella on a regular basis actually increases the lutein content of the erythrocytes, thus preventing the onset of cataracts.
Chlorella improves liver function
Chlorella supplementation is also associated with the improvement of liver function. This plant is well tolerated in patients with chronic HCV, and its intake is associated with a significant reduction in the activity of the liver ALT enzymes.
And that’s not all we can expect from this plant. Animal studies have confirmed that chlorella improves resistance to viral and bacterial infections, normalizes blood sugar levels, reduces body weight, and may also protect against cancer. In humans, supplementation with this plant improves outcomes in many chronic diseases. Chlorella’s cleansing effect is also often emphasized. It contains proteins called metallothioneins, which have the ability to bind heavy metals.
Chlorella is a very valuable supplement. Of course, not everyone needs it, so the decision to take should be made after confronting your own ailments and needs with the effects of this plant.
Photo 1 is from: Damien Pollet via Foter.com / CC BY-SA
Photo 2 is from: dahon via Foter.com / CC BY-ND
- Comments