Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

Chlorella is a type of green algae that has been explored in clinical research for its potential benefits in gastrointestinal health, including symptoms associated with Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). While the use of chlorella for IBS is not strongly rooted in traditional herbal medicine, a handful of modern scientific studies have investigated its effects on digestive symptoms. One small open-label study published in 2008 in the journal Phytotherapy Research assessed the impact of chlorella supplementation in patients with IBS and ulcerative colitis. The study found that some participants experienced improvements in abdominal pain and bloating; however, the trial was limited by its small sample size, lack of a placebo group, and short duration. The proposed mechanisms by which chlorella may assist with IBS symptoms include its high fiber content, which could promote regular bowel movements, and its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, which might help modulate gut inflammation and support overall gut health. Despite these proposed benefits, the current scientific evidence is limited and not robust, with few controlled trials available and inconsistent findings. Thus, while chlorella is sometimes used as a dietary supplement by those with IBS and has a plausible theoretical basis for benefit, the scientific support is weak to moderate at best. Larger, well-controlled clinical trials are needed to establish its efficacy for IBS symptoms.

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