Chlorella is a single-celled type of green algae that grows naturally, and is it is also grown and harvested in artificial ponds. It contains large amounts of chlorophyll and it is one of the major parts of the small aquatic plant phytoplankton, which is found in plankton. It is a food source, and a nutritional supplement. Chlorella has been marketed as a nutritional supplement and a detox product claiming a variety of health benefits. The benefits are largely disputed by various medical studies both proving and disproving its effects, and the overall value of chlorella for the human body.
Nutritional Value
Regardless of the other disputed health benefits of chlorella, it is widely agreed that it will not harm the human body, and -- even if nothing else -- it is packed with nutrients. It is about half protein, part fats, part carbohydrate and a significant amount of it is vitamins and minerals. Chlorella contains a good dose of zinc, calcium, iron, magnesium, vitamins C, E and B12, and it contains some tryptophan, phosphorus and vitamin A.
Detoxification
Information on the health benefits of chlorella varies widely both in terms of potency and validity. In the intestines, chlorella -- according to some sources -- is thought to bind with heavy metals, pesticides, and other harmful toxins to allow excretion from the body. It is also thought to stimulate T-cell production in the immune system, helping to fight bacteria and viruses, and remove toxins from the blood stream.
Cancer Fighting Properties
Another significant claim regarding the benefit of chlorella is its ability of fight cancer. Some sources suggest that chlorella can provide cells with a source of RNA and DNA, allowing for a massive increase in cell production, which helps the body counter the effects of chemotherapy, and combat the effects of gamma radiation as it benefits the immune system, tissue repair processes, and enzyme production. This is in addition to the detoxifying effects it has on the liver and intestines, which will remove harmful, carcinogenic properties from the body before they are absorbed.
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