Five Studies that Prove Chlorella can Boost Immunity
by Colin McGregor
Chlorella is a freshwater algae that’s packed full of amino acids, vitamins, minerals, protein, fibre and antioxidants. Its numerous health benefits have been widely publicised, including stronger bones and joints, lower cholesterol and a healthier brain. But what about strengthening our immune system – our body’s defense against illness and infection?
Research conducted on both humans and animals suggests that Chlorella can play a useful role in boosting immunity. It’s been shown to stimulate the immune system in both healthy individuals, and those with compromised immune systems. How does it do it? Here are five studies that explain how:
By increasing healthy cell activity
Chlorella can enhance healthy cell activity which can stimulate the body’s immune response. A 2012 Korean study gave healthy participants either 5g of Chlorella or a placebo each day. Researchers found that at the end of the 8-week trial, the Chlorella group exhibited higher levels of healthy cell activity, confirming a beneficial immunostimulatory effect of short-term Chlorella supplementation.
By providing important nutrients
In 1990, a study was conducted on patients with malignant brain tumours. The researchers discovered that patients who were given Chlorella were found to have had fewer respiratory infections and flu‐like illnesses over a 2-year period. The evidence suggests that adding Chlorella to the diet provides important nutrients necessary to resist infection and restore immune function.
By fighting infection
Research has shown promising results in relation to Chlorella’s ability to help our bodies fight infection. A small study of 15 men looked at whether Chlorella increases the salivary secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) in humans, which plays an important role in fighting infection. The study found that the salivary SIgA concentrations were significantly elevated after Chlorella ingestion, suggesting that it may improve immune function in humans.
By eliminating toxins
Chlorella can also help the body eliminate toxins which may be useful for people undergoing cancer treatment. For example, this 2016 Japanese study discovered that Chlorella could inhibit the absorption of radioactive particles into the blood and enhance the elimination of radiation particles from the body.
By improving gut health
There’s also evidence to suggest that Chlorella supplements can increase the amount of healthy gut bacteria, which can prevent stomach and digestive problems.
A 2018 study looking at lipid metabolism and gut microbiota composition in rats, found that Chlorella can maintain gut health by increasing good bacteria and decreasing bad bacteria.
If you’re keen to give your immune system a helping hand, these studies show that a daily Chlorella supplement could be useful. And if you choose BioGenesis Chlorella, you can be confident that it’s 100% natural, organic and vegan – just the way nature intended.
