Chlorella is a freshwater microalgae of high nutritional value that can be used to stimulate the immune system, to lose weight and is also indicated to combat gastrointestinal problems and degenerative diseases. Its scientific name is Chlorella Vulgaris and can be bought in natural products stores and in some handling pharmacies.
To lose weight with this seaweed is advisable to take 1 or 2 capsules of Chlorella daily, next to a meal. However, its use must be accompanied by a hypocaloric diet and physical exercise.
Benefits of Chlorella
Chlorella can be found in the form of extract, powder, tablets or capsules, and brings the following health benefits:
- Favor the gain of muscle mass, as it is rich in proteins and contains the BCAAs;
- Prevent anemia and cramp as it is rich in vitamin B12, iron and vitamin C;
- Improve skin and hair by being rich in beta-carotene and vitamin C;
- Reduce inflammation as it contains omega-3;
- Detoxify as it helps to remove heavy metals from the body;
- Reduce cholesterol because it contains niacin, fiber and antioxidants;
- Control high blood pressure by containing nutrients such as arginine, calcium, potassium and omega-3, which help relax blood vessels.
It is important to remember that the benefits of chlorella are only obtained when this algae is consumed as a supplement, since the alga in natura is not digested by the intestine.
How to use
The clhorella is used in the form of food supplement tablets, and should be consumed between 6 to 10 g per day, distributed during the day.
Check out other ways to consume seaweed to lose weight.
Side effects
At the recommended dose there are no reported side effects of chlorella, but the excess may cause diarrhea, itching and rash on the skin.
Contraindications
There are no known contraindications of chlorella, however, pregnant or lactating women or children should consult a dietitian before starting Chlorella.
Nutritional information
The information on the amount of nutrients present in Chlorella is given in the table below:
| Quantity in 3g of Chlorella | |
| Energy | 12 calories |
| Lipids | 0.36 g |
| Fiber | 0.33 g |
| Proteins | 1.99 g |
| Vitamin A | 300 μg |
| Vitamin E | 0.81 μg |
| Vitamin K1 | 22.1 μg |
| Vitamin B2 | 0.18 μg |
| Vitamin B3 | 1.6 mg |
| Folic acid | 72 μg |
| B12 vitamin | 1.11 μg |
| Potassium | 24 mg |
| Calcium | 6.75 mg |
| Magnesium | 8.28 mg |
| Iron | 3.96 mg |
| Chlorophyll | 99 mg |
Also know the alga Spirulina, another super food that helps to lose weight and improve health.
