Chlorella is a single-celled, fresh-water alga and one of the earliest life forms, according to William H. Lee, Ph.D., in his book "Chlorella." It is critical to life as it participates in photosynthesis, which helps to produce oxygen for plants, animals and humans. Though previously not thought of as a food for humans, it has recently become a popular supplement due to its robust nutritional qualities. Some of these benefits may be helpful for adrenal fatigue, which is the lowered function of the adrenal glands and can cause mood swings, fatigue and weight gain.
Vitamin-Rich
One reason that chlorella may help with adrenal fatigue is that it contains many nutrients that help the adrenals, according to Beth M. Ley, Ph.D., in her book "Chlorella: The Ultimate Green Food." Chlorella is full of vitamin C, B complex and zinc, which are all important for adrenal function. Chlorella may help with both adrenal fatigue and Chronic Fatigue Syndrome, or CFS, notes Ley, as CFS often has some basis in fatigued adrenals.
High in RNA and DNA
Chlorella may also be helpful for adrenals because it contains RNA and DNA, according to Amy Rost in her book "Natural Healing Wisdom & Know How." These, along with chlorella's amino acids and chlorophyll, rejuvenate the adrenals glands. The fiber contained in chlorella can also help to cleanse the adrenal glands of toxins, notes Rost. She recommends taking it daily in order to help adrenal fatigue.
Antiviral
Gabriel Cousens, M.D., claims in his book "There Is a Cure for Diabetes" that the chlorophyll contained in chlorella is antiviral or can help kill viruses and bacteria. Its ability to help fight off infection and boost the immune system can help support the adrenals, since they are affected by illness. In turn, lowered adrenal function allows for more sicknesses to occur. Chlorella has not been proven in studies to be antibacterial or viral.
Balances Blood Sugar
Cousens also claims that chlorella can help balance blood sugar, which puts less pressure on the adrenals. He notes that chlorella has been found to be beneficial in cases of blood sugar imbalances because its digestible protein regulates blood sugar fluctuation. A diet high in sugar and refined carbohydrates is often linked to adrenal fatigue, as the fluctuations in blood sugar levels directly impact the adrenals and causes them to overwork. Both animal and vegetarian protein sources such as chlorella can help to balance blood sugar.
References
- "Chlorella: The Ultimate Green Food"; Beth M. Ley, PhD; 2003
- "Natural Healing Wisdom & Know How"; Amy Rost; 2009
- "There Is a Cure for Diabetes"; Gabriel Cousens, MD; 2008
- "Chlorella"; William H. Lee, PhD; 1998
