The power of food never ceases to amaze us. One powerful little food, and we literally mean tiny, is called chlorella. It is one minuscule cell in size. But in this case, size doesn’t matter for this superfood. It has so many tremendous potential benefits that it should become part of our daily routine. Taking chlorella is one step that reduces the toxic burden in the body safely.

Why Chlorella Should Be Your Next Superfood?
Chlorella as a Superfood - Shutterstock Image

In this blog, we will explore the nutritional aspects, proven health benefits, and reasons to consider eating or supplementing chlorella.[1]

Chlorella is a very small algae, about 2–10 micrometers in size, giving it a high concentration of nutrients. It is nearly 60% protein and contains all essential amino acids. It is also rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and chlorophyll. Chlorella is one of the best plant-based sources of vitamin B12 and is a complete protein.

Chlorella has gained popularity as a superfood due to its ability to detoxify the body and boost the immune system. It is believed that chlorella binds to toxins in the digestive tract, preventing their absorption. Studies have shown it may help regulate blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

The high nutrient density and detoxifying properties of chlorella are why it is considered a superfood. Consuming chlorella as a dietary supplement or adding it to smoothies can help support overall wellness.

What Are The Benefits Of Chlorella?

Chlorella is a single-celled green algae that is considered a superfood due to its high nutritional value. It was first discovered in 1890 in freshwater ponds in Japan. Since then, it has been commercially cultivated and studied for its health benefits.

Chlorella may be a new term to you, but it really is a superfood that has been used for centuries as such in areas like Japan. It is like spirulina algae but happens to have some nutrient advantages over spirulina.

  • Hyperlipidemia and Hyperglycemia: Chlorella vulgaris has the potential to help improve issues like high cholesterol and high blood sugar levels. It can make the fats in your blood (lipids) and the sugar in your blood (glucose) better, leading to a healthier balance in your body.[2]
  • Improve physical exercise and performance: Chlorella enhances both anaerobic and aerobic exercise capabilities, boosts physical stamina, and mitigates fatigue onset. These positive effects are associated with the antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and metabolic properties found in its macronutrients, including peptides, polysaccharides, and fatty acids. Each macronutrient contributes specific functions that may play a role in enhancing physical exercise and performance.[3]
  • Helpful for Cancer Patients: Chlorella has been studied for its nutrient composition and health benefits like antioxidants, lowering cholesterol, reducing inflammation, and inhibiting cancer cell growth and proliferation through various mechanisms like immune enhancement and apoptosis induction.[4]
  • Other Benefits: As per research, the potential of chlorella to relieve symptoms, improve quality of life, and normalize body functions in patients with fibromyalgia, hypertension, or ulcerative colitis suggests that daily dietary supplementation with chlorella may reduce high blood pressure, lower serum cholesterol levels, accelerate wound healing, and enhance immune functions.[5]

    • Scientific Studies and References on Chlorella

    Chlorella’s superfood status isn’t just based on its impressive nutrient profile—it’s also backed by scientific research. Multiple studies suggest that chlorella can support the body’s natural detoxification processes by binding to heavy metals and other harmful toxins.

    Chlorella’s detoxifying power comes from its fibrous cell wall, which binds to heavy metals like mercury and lead, aiding their removal from the body. A study published in Nutrients has shown reduced toxicity levels in individuals supplementing with chlorella[6].

    Its immune-boosting effects are also well-documented. A study from the National Library of Medicine suggests chlorella enhances natural killer cell activity and increases antibody production, supporting overall immunity. Additionally, chlorella’s antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds may improve aerobic endurance and muscle recovery, making it beneficial for athletes[7].

    How Do You Supplement With Chlorella?

    Supplement With Chlorella

    Supplement With Chlorella

    There are several ways that chlorella can be supplemented as part of a healthy diet and lifestyle. One of the most common forms is through powder or tablets. Chlorella powder can be stirred into water, juice, smoothies, or protein shakes. It has a mild, grassy flavor that is easily masked when mixed with other ingredients.

    Chlorella is also available in tablet form, which allows for easy consumption. Tablets can be taken whole with water or broken into pieces and swallowed.

    In addition to powders and tablets, chlorella is also available as a liquid concentrate or added to foods like bars, crackers, and pasta. Consuming chlorella regularly as part of a balanced diet can help support the body’s natural detoxification processes and provide an abundance of nutrients.

    Proper hydration is also important when supplementing with chlorella to allow for optimal nutrient uptake and the elimination of toxins. With consistent intake, chlorella can become a beneficial superfood for overall wellness.

    The recommended dosage of chlorella varies depending on the individual, but a general guideline is 3–10 grams by mouth daily for 2–3 months for overall wellness support. It is best taken in divided doses with meals to aid absorption. Some people start with a lower 250mg–1g dose and gradually increase based on tolerance.

    Chlorella supplements are generally considered safe, but it is best to consult a healthcare provider before taking large doses or if you have a medical condition. The nutritional content of chlorella boasts a large amount of often-deficient minerals, including iodine, zinc, magnesium, and iron.

    In fact, per 1 oz, it meets the RDA for:

    • zinc
    • iodine
    • iron

    It provides about one-third of the magnesium RDA in 1 oz, or 28 grams of chlorella. Keep in mind that this would be a lot of supplement even at 1 oz (3 Tbsp.), and we would never recommend starting at that high of an amount.

    It also contains a lot of B-vitamins and carotenoids, aka vitamin A precursors. As with any food, allergic reactions could occur. Therefore, it is always better to consult a doctor for dosage as per your body requirements.

    Summary

    In conclusion, chlorella is a nutrient-dense superfood that can provide numerous health benefits when incorporated into a balanced diet. It is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants, which can help boost the immune system, detoxify the body, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, aid in weight management, and fight cancer.

    It is also a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and dietary fiber. Chlorella can be consumed in various forms, including supplements, powder, and tablets.

    However, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for each individual’s needs. Overall, chlorella is a powerful superfood that can contribute to your overall wellbeing and should be considered as a part of a healthy diet.

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    Feature Image: Shutterstock.com
    In-Post Image: Deliciousliving.com & Shuttertock.com

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    5 Sources

    We review published medical research in respected scientific journals to arrive at our conclusions about a product or health topic. This ensures the highest standard of scientific accuracy.

    [1] Potential of Chlorella as a Dietary Supplement to Promote Human Health: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7551956/
    [2] Chlorella vulgaris: A Multifunctional Dietary Supplement with Diverse Medicinal Properties: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26561078/
    [3] Bioactivity of Macronutrients from Chlorella in Physical Exercise: https://www.mdpi.com/2072-6643/15/9/2168
    [4] In Vitro and in Vivo Cytotoxic Effects of Chlorella Against Various types of Cancer: https://journals.iium.edu.my/kom/index.php/imjm/article/view/1765
    [5] A review of recent clinical trials of the nutritional supplement Chlorella pyrenoidosa in the treatment of fibromyalgia, hypertension, and ulcerative colitis: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/11347287/ [6] Potential of Chlorella as a Dietary Supplement to Promote Human Health : https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7551956/
    [7] Beneficial immunostimulatory effect of short-term Chlorella supplementation: enhancement of natural killer cell activity and early inflammatory response (randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled trial) : https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22849818/
    Author
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    Heidi Moretti, MS, RD

    Heidi Moretti, MS, RD has worked as a clinical nutritionist for 18 years and has conducted vitamin and protein research throughout her