Among
22 different amino acids, all but 8 can be produced inside our body
by using the other amino acids as material. These 8 amino acids can
never be produced in our body, and must be consumed from food. These
are called "essential amino acids". If any of these is even
lacking, the others cannot function as well.
Chlorella contains 19 out of 22 different amino acids, and all 8 of
the essential amino acids. Therefore, Chlorella is considered a complete
protein.
In addition, cultivating Chlorella makes good ecological sense since
it produces 20 times as much protein as soybeans growing on an equal-sized
area of land. Ounce for ounce Chlorella provides over twice the protein
as soy, beef, or chicken and almost 20 times the protein as rice or
potatoes.
Chlorella is a complete storehouse of rich nutrients in addition to
its incredible protein content. It also contains vitamins, minerals,
carbohydrates, fiber, chlorophyll, enzymes, antioxidants and many
other phytonutrients. Chlorella provides vitamin A, Beta-carotene, vitamins
B, C, E and K. Its minerals include calcium, iron, phosphorus, potassium,
magnesium, zinc, manganese, sulfur, and several other trace minerals.
Chlorella
is an especially rich source of lutein, a powerful antioxidant known
to be highly beneficial for the eyes. Lutein is known to ward off vision
problems such as cataracts, macular degeneration and retinal problems.
Some species of Chlorella (503 mg./100 mg.) contain 50 times more lutein
than spinach (10.2 mg./100 mg. raw).