Chlorella and spirulina

Chlorella and spirulina are two different types of so called super foods that come from algae. These two foods are very high in foliate, protein, minerals, vitamins, and amino acids. Many people believe taking these as dietary supplements can assist in recovering from illness as well as generally assisting the body is being healthy and in healing. Much of these benefits come from the chlorophyll content in both chlorella and spirulina. The two supplements, however, work in very different ways and have different results.

Both chlorella and spirulina feature many of the same nutrients. Spirulina has a lot of protein in it, plus a number of essential fatty acids, potassium, zinc, iron, and calcium. It also includes many B vitamins (B1, B2, B3, B6, B9, and B12), vitamin C, vitamin D, and vitamin E. Chlorella, likewise, includes many of these nutrients. However, the biggest different between the two is that chlorella also contains many antioxidants. It features one of the highest forms of chlorophyll as well.

Chlorella is often given to cancer patients and those who are worried about developing cancer. It has been shown to actually stop the development of cancerous cells in some cases. It also helps to rebuild nerves in the brain after serious nerve damage. For those looking to cleanse their bodies of toxins, chlorella can work as a colon cleansing product as well. Overall, it is a very versatile supplement that has many unique properties. Chlorella is very high in vitamin K and contains phosphorus, tryptophan, and pantothenic acid, things not found in spirulina. Note that while chlorella is available in several different forms, the freeze dried and pasteurized forms do not contain as many natural enzymes as other forms and won’t be as helpful.

Spirulina, on the other hand, is often used by athletes and those looking to lose weight. It helps to build up muscles and can assist in enhancing the digestive system so that the body doesn’t absorb as much fat from foods. It also helps in the treatment of some types of cancer as well. Seventy percent of this algae is vitamins, minerals, and proteins. As a health supplement, spirulina is available as a powder, a tablet, or can be eaten in its natural form. Spirulina has the highest volume of beta carotene out of all foods—ten times more than that found in a carrot. One tablet of spirulina provides the same amount of nutrients as eating two pieces of fruit.

When people decide to add one of these two to their list of daily supplements, they often try to decide which is better. However, the best way of taking chlorella and spirulina is to actually take them together. This is because the chlorella helps to flush the body of toxins, parasites, and waste while the spirulina helps the body build up muscles, lose weight, and increases your overall health. Taking either chlorella or spirulina will benefit you, but taking the two together will really help your body much more.

Generally, you will take the same amount of the two supplements each day. Most doctors recommend that healthy adults take between four and seven grams of the supplements. Those who are taking chlorella or spirulina as a part of their cancer treatment may, however, need to take up to 20 grams per day. Children can take either of the supplements, but they should not take more than a gram each day. Pregnant or nursing women or those who have diabetes should discuss taking these supplements with their doctor first in case there are any complications or side effects.

Last updated on Feb 7th, 2010 and filed under Healthy Eating. Both comments and pings are currently closed.

1 Response for “Chlorella and spirulina”

  1. Nadine says:

    I love both spirulina and chlorella. I just ordered some chlorella from dr. Mercola and already I feel a difference in my energy levels. I’ve also noticed that I don’t feel the need to eat as much which makes me very happy. I’m glad to see people are writing about the health benefits of these superfoods. Thanks

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