Chlorella(Chlorella pyrenoidosaorChlorella vulgaris) is a bright green algae dense in nutrients.
Additional research is needed, however, to confirm evidence of these and other health benefits.
That means some supplement products may not contain what the label says.
Verywell / Getty Images
Verywell / Getty Images
What Is Chlorella?
Chlorella is a nutrient-dense, mainly freshwater algae.
It is also available as a supplement in tablet, capsule, powder, and extract forms.
However, there is not enough evidence to support most of these claims.
Health Benefits of Chlorella
Below are a few possible health benefits of chlorella.
In addition, chlorella contains antioxidant carotenoids like lutein, beta-carotene, and zeaxanthin.
It also has high levels of other antioxidants likevitamin Cand omega-3 fatty acids, which combatfree radicals.
However, there is much interest in alternative ways to reduce cholesterol.
Chlorella has improved lipid levels in several studies.
More research is needed before recommending chlorella for high cholesterol.
Speak with your healthcare provider before starting any supplement.
Chlorella is also a good source of iron for those at risk of iron deficiency anemia.
Reduces Anemia Risk During Pregnancy
During pregnancy, iron requirements increase.Anemiacan develop if an iron deficiency occurs.
Chlorella happens to be a great source of iron.
Those taking chlorella had higherhemoglobinlevels in the second and third trimesters compared to the placebo group.
While promising, further research is needed.
Its also advisable to avoid supplements during pregnancy unless youve cleared it with your healthcare provider.
May Lower Blood Sugar
Chlorella has lowered blood sugar levels in several clinical trials.
This may impact people withdiabetesor those looking to moderate their glucose levels.
A 2021 study using 1,500mg of chlorella daily lowered blood sugar and cholesterol levels in people with diabetes.
Further study is needed.
Be mindful of using chlorella and blood-sugar-lowering medications together.
May Reduce Blood Pressure
Chlorella has lowered blood pressure levels in clinical studies.
This may benefit people withhypertension.
While promising, further research is warranted.
More studies are needed to confirm these promising results.
May Bolster Eye Health
Chlorella contains noteworthy carotenoids to bolster your eye health.
A single 6-gram dose ofC.
vulgarisin healthy males increasedlutein,zeaxanthin, andbeta-carotenelevels in the body.
However, further research is needed.
It affects an estimated 32% of the global adult population.
A clinical trial of 70 people with MASLD used 1.2 g/dayC.
vulgarisor a placebo for eight weeks.
The chlorella treatment lowered liver enzymes and increased serum insulin levels compared to the placebo group.
Chlorella supplementation may benefit blood sugar, inflammation, and liver function in people with MASLD.
More research would help determine the best form of supplement and appropriate doses.
If you are considering using chlorella, be sure to talk with your healthcare provider.
Reduces Toxins
Researchers have investigated chlorellas ability to decrease toxins in the body.
In a preliminary animal study, chlorella supplementation increased the ability to eliminate dioxin, a potent carcinogen.
This research suggests chlorella may help inactivate cancer-causing molecules.
Methylmercury (MeHg) is a metal compound toxic to the brain, nervous system, and kidneys.
While these effects are promising, more research is needed.
It’s plausible that chlorella has antioxidant effects.
Does chlorella help to alkalinize the body?
Our lungs and kidneys are involved in tightly regulating blood pH no matter what we eat.
An abnormal pH level in your blood is not desirable and can lead to further health concerns.
Side Effects of Chlorella
Chlorella is generally considered safe and well tolerated.
That said, chlorella can cause side effects, especially during the first few weeks of treatment.
These include:
Additionally, some have reported allergic reactions, including asthma and anaphylaxis.
Most of these side effects tend to resolve as your body adapts to treatment.
Should I Take Chlorella?
Chlorella may be safe for most people.
Common daily intake orally ranges from 3 g to 10 g.
Never exceed the dose the manufacturer recommends.
It’s best to start with a small amount and increase the dose gradually.
Doing so may help you avoid gastrointestinal and other side effects.
Tablets are the easiest form of chlorella to take because the dose remains controlled and consistent.
If taking it as a powder or liquid, stick to the exact measurements recommended.
Cooking chlorella does not diminish its nutritional value.
Similar Supplements
Spirulina and kelp are two other popular algae-based supplements.
Spirulinais a blue-green algae that contains nutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins, beta carotene, and minerals.
Kelp is a bang out of brownseaweedthat typically grows in underwater forests.
It provides nutrition for sea life but is also a food staple for humans.
As a supplement, it often serves as a source of iodine.
Summary
Chlorella is an algae-based supplement rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
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