What Are the Benefits of Chlorella?

The benefits of chlorella, a type of algae, include relieving pain in some patients who suffer from conditions such as fibromyaglia, improving the function of the digestive system, and boosting the immune system. Chlorella is high in nutrients such as B vitamins, including B-12, which is commonly found only in animal products. Other potential benefits of chlorella include lowering blood pressure and preventing stomach ulcers. In most cases, more scientific studies are needed to prove the exact benefits of the algae.

Some cancer patients and people who have been exposed to radiation claim that the benefits of chlorella include easing the side effects felt by radiation, such a nausea. It may also protect against some of the more damaging effects of chemotherapy. Another claim for chlorella is that it may help prevent cancer.

Patients with diseases such as Crohn's or colitis may see benefits of chlorella. Taking a supplement may boost the amount of beneficial bacteria in the intestines, improving digestive health and keeping symptoms of those conditions at bay. The supplements may also help prevent and treat ulcers caused by stress. Chlorella may also have a laxative effect and help prevent or treat constipation.

In studies performed on rats, chlorella helped lower the hemoglobin A1C levels in the rats over the course of a few weeks. Hemoglobin A1C is the average blood sugar level over a period of time. Supplements of chlorella may also improve a diabectic's insulin sensitivity and possibly lower cholesterol levels. It may also protect against vision loss and other problems associated with diabetes.

Combined with a full treatment program, chlorella may benefit patients who suffer from fibromyaglia, a condition that causes chronic pain all over the body. The algae has shown some promise at relieving the pain caused by the condition. A patient should talk with her doctor before taking any supplements to make sure they will not interact with other medications.

Other possible benefits of chlorella include treating hypertension, or high blood pressure, and treating rashes. Applied topically, the algae may help rashes, such as those caused by radiation, on the skin heal. It may help clear up an infection of trichomoniasis or help heal an ulcer on the skin.

Some people prefer to take chlorella supplements simply for the nutritional boost. The algae contains plenty of B vitamins, including B-12, folic acid, and B-1. It also have a significant amount of vitamin C. Chlorella is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids as well as fiber and other carbohydrates. The algae is considered a complete protein, meaning it has all the amino acids.