Chlorella in Shakeology – 350 mg.What is Chlorella?Chlorella is a type of single-celled green algae, belonging to the phylum Chlorophyta.
Chlorella contains the green photosynthetic pigments chlorophyll A and B, enabling it to photosynthesize (derive energy by converting sunlight and carbon dioxide into sugar molecules for food). This ability gives it its namesake, which derives from the Greek chloros, meaning ‘green’ and the Latin ñella, meaning ‘small’.
Chlorella can grow rapidly where there is high nitrate and phosphate levels or direct sunlight, as it needs only light, water, CO2, and a few trace minerals to reproduce.
Chlorella was discovered in the late 19th century. Due to its high protein concentration and rapid growth rate, Chlorella was investigated after World War II as a possible commercial food source.
Chlorella Nutrition InformationChlorella is considered by many to be a superfood. When dried, it is about 45% protein, 20% fat, 20% carbohydrate, 5% fiber, and 10% minerals and vitamins, making it an excellent source of nutrition. It contains ample amounts of potassium, all of the B vitamins, magnesium, zinc and iron, beta carotene and lutein.
Chlorella is also a complete protein, meaning that it contains all the essential amino acids a person needs to survive in the correct proportions for cellular use. Under certain growing conditions, Chlorella also yields oils high in polyunsaturated fats, which are the healthy variety of lipids (also known as ‘good fats’) and can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and lower blood cholesterol.
Chlorella Health BenefitsIn its natural form, Chlorella has been found to have anti-tumor properties when fed to mice, and likewise enhanced vascular function in hypertensive rats. Chlorella also contains vitamin C and carotenoids, both of which are antioxidants- compounds that block the action of free radicals and their potential cancer-causing disruption of cells.
Several studies suggest that Chlorella supplementation even has a positive effect on the reduction of dioxin levels in breast milk and it may also have beneficial effects on nursing infants by increasing the levels of antibody IgA, which helps an infant’s immune system develop, in breast milk.
Chorella’s presence in the stomach and digestive tract can increase good bacteria in the intestine in order to help treat ulcers, colitis, Crohn’s disease, and diverticulosis.
Other key digestive support ingredients in Shakeology -Blue Green Algae - This power packed nutrient can help to increase energy, improve memory, increase mental clarity, improve digestion, control cravings, heighten immune function, help relieve fatigue, PMS, anxiety and depression. It's even recently been called a cure for ADD.
Flax Seed Meal - Flaxseeds' omega-3 fats are a good source of fiber that can help lower cholesterol levels, aid in digestion and help stabilize blood sugar levels. Also, its combination of healthy fat and high fiber content make it great for weight loss. The flax seed carries one of the biggest nutrient payloads on the planet. And while it’s not technically a grain, it has a similar vitamin and mineral profile to grains, while the amount of fiber, antioxidants, and Omega-3 fatty acids in flax leaves grains in the dust. Additionally, flax seed is very low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for people who limit their intake of starches and sugars. Its combination of healthy fat and high fiber content make it a great food for weight loss and maintenance -- many dieters have found that flax seed has been a key to keeping them feeling satisfied.
Schisandra Powder - Schisandra (Schisandra chinensis) is an aromatic, woody vine that is native to northern and northeastern China. Schisandra fruit is fully ripened in the fall and appears as numerous spikes of tiny, bright red berries. The berries have sweet, sour, hot, salty, and bitter tastes. Research has shown that Schisandra has adaptogenic properties, which means that it helps the body to fight disease and adapt to stresses from physical, mental, chemical, and environmental sources. Schisandra also has tonic (restoring tone to tissues), expectorant (promoting the clearing of lung mucus), and cough-suppressant (reducing coughing) activities. It stimulates the nervous system by increasing the speed of nervous responses, leading to quicker and stronger reflexes. Schisandra has been shown to stimulate breathing, decrease blood pressure, act as a vasodilator (causing blood vessels to dilate), improve blood circulation, improve heart function, strengthen uterine contractions, improve vision, normalize blood sugar levels, and assist in food digestion and absorption of nutrients. It can activate all major body systems.
Yacon Root - The Prebiotics in Shakeology are found in the Yacon root. Prebiotics are specific nutrients naturally occurring in whole grains, fruits, legumes, and certain plants. They stimulate the friendly bacteria in the digestive tract, making them either grow or become more active, thereby supporting the healthy regulation of intestinal flora, healthy elimination, and a healthy immune system. When compared to sugar in sweetness, Yacon contains low ratios of simple sugars and calories. It also has a low glycemic index. Yacon is a tasty, potato-like root vegetable found in Peru. Historically, Yacon has been used in South America to lower blood sugar in those with diabetes and improve digestion.
Wheat grass - high in calcium, magnesium and potassium. Studies have shown it to have cleansing, detoxifying and healing effects on your body. Recommended as a way to stimulate metabolism, wheat grass can be helpful in correcting obesity and indigestion.
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Spotlighting some of the 70 ingredients in Shakeology for information on many of the other helpful ingredients in Shakeology
As I have stated many times here Shakeology is one of the best drinks you can put into your body. Recently Dr Perricone posted an article on the top 10 superfoods, which all by the way are contained in Shakeology.