If you’re new to the idea of supplementing your diet with chlorella, then you probably aren’t familiar with all of the benefits that this popular green food offers. Chlorella is one of the most nutritionally dense foods on the planet and contains amino acids, carotenoids, chlorophyll, vitamin B12, iron, calcium, and more than 50 different minerals and vitamins. In this article, we cover ten of our favorite chlorella benefits that you might not have known about yet! Take a look!

What is chlorella?

Chlorella is a nutrient-dense green freshwater algae with numerous health benefits. While there are various types of chlorella, Chlorella pyrenoidosa and Chlorella Vulgaris are the most studied and the most commonly used. See what chlorella benefits are below!

Chlorella contains a tough cell wall that’s difficult for humans to digest. This makes supplementation the ideal and easiest way to increase digestibility and nutrient bioavailability.

Read about other supplemental greens, Spirulina and Bladderwrack!

Chlorella Benefits

1. It’s rich in nutrients

Chlorella is considered a superfood in the health and wellness industry because of its rich nutritional profile.

For example, it’s a complete protein with all the amino acids the body needs. It’s also 50-60 percent protein, making it an excellent protein source, especially for vegans and anyone on a plant-based diet.

Chlorella is also rich in vitamin B12, another nutrient lacking in plant-based diets.

Additionally, chlorella offers substantial amounts of vitamin C, minerals like iron, zinc, magnesium, copper, folic acid, and calcium, omega 3s and a wide range of antioxidants.

However, these nutrients may differ depending on the growing environment and the chlorella species used.

2. It can boost the immune system

A strong immune system is essential to help you fight off infections and stay healthy.

According to research published in the Nutrition Journal, chlorella consumption can improve natural killer cell activity and stimulate the necessary inflammatory responses needed to fight off infections.

In another study, chlorella supplementation was shown to increase antibody production in the body, which helps fight infections and prevent disease-causing pathogens from invading.

3. Enhances mental detoxification

Research shows that chlorella can help detoxify the body from heavy metals like lead and mercury.

These metals often find their way to the body through the work environment, pollution, and even food. For instance, if you consume fish a lot, have mercury teeth filling, have been exposed to radiation, or have been vaccinated, you probably have these metals lurking in your system.

The most significant ability of chlorella to aid this process is that it wraps around the metals and any other toxins and prevents them from being absorbed into the body. This also prevents metal accumulation that may lead to tissue damage.

In addition, chlorella prevents heavy metal toxicity to the kidneys, liver, and brain.

4. It lowers cholesterol

According to various studies, chlorella supplementation may help lower cholesterol levels.

It’s rich in antioxidants, fiber, niacin, and carotenoids, all of which are known to lower cholesterol.

A daily intake of 5 grams of chlorella may help lower total cholesterol and triglycerides in patients with mildly high cholesterol levels.

5. Improves blood sugar levels

According to research, chlorella may help reduce and stabilize blood glucose levels in healthy individuals and those with a high risk for lifestyle diseases.

Moreover, a study found that chlorella can increase insulin sensitivity and improve blood sugar control even in patients with conditions like non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.

6. Regulates blood pressure

Nutrients like omega-3s, arginine, calcium, and potassium in chlorella help decrease blood vessel stiffness. This reduces tension and causes the vessels to relax, thus allowing blood to flow freely.

The fact that chlorella also lowers cholesterol helps prevent its buildup in the arteries, which over time may narrow the blood vessels and make it difficult for blood to pass, causing a rise in blood pressure.

In one study, a daily intake of 4 grams of chlorella for 12 weeks was shown to lower blood pressure in patients with mildly elevated blood pressure.

7. Promotes eye health

Chlorella is rich in two powerful carotenoids, lutein and zeaxanthin, which have been shown to promote eyesight and prevent age-related macular degeneration.

This combination may also prevent cataracts, eye strain, and fatigue.

Furthermore, the amount of these carotenoids in your retina is directly dependent on the amount consumed, and adding chlorella to your daily routine may keep your levels high.

8. Supports liver health

Chlorophyll, a significant component in chlorella, is known to detoxify the liver and improve its functions. In one study, patients with fatty liver showed improved liver function, blood sugar control, and weight loss after 2 months of chlorella supplementation.

Chlorella can also protect against chemically-induced liver damage. According to other studies, chlorella can reduce alanine transaminase (ALT), a liver enzyme that indicates liver inflammation in hepatitis C infections.

All these studies show that chlorella can indeed promote liver health.

9. Promotes strong bones

Chlorella is a good source of calcium. Calcium is important for keeping your bones strong and helping regulate blood pressure. Chlorella also contains other nutrients, including magnesium, potassium, and vitamin D, that can help support calcium absorption. Including chlorella in your puddings can help you get all the nutrients you need without adding extra calories or fat.

10. Prevents cancer

Chlorella is a powerful plant-based supplement that has been used for centuries to treat a variety of health conditions. Recently, scientists have begun to explore the potential benefits of chlorella as a natural cancer treatment. Chlorella contains a number of different nutrients, including enzymes, that can help kill cancer cells.

Here are four ways that chlorella can help to reduce the risk of cancer:

Chlorella can help to improve the immune system. This helps fight off cancer cells and other invaders.
It can help reduce inflammation. This is a major cause of cancer growth and progression.
Chlorella is high in antioxidants. These substances help fight damage by free radicals, which are linked to cancer development.
It can help improve digestion and nutrient absorption. This can help to boost the immune system and reduce the risk of cancers developing from bad food choices.

One study showed that chlorella could help reduce tumor growth in mice. The study found that chlorella helped stop the growth of tumors in the liver and lungs. In addition, chlorella reduced the size of tumors in mice.

Another study found that chlorella can help prevent the spread of cancer cells by blocking the ability of cancer cells to spread through the body. In addition, chlorella also increased the survival rates of tumor patients.
Overall, chlorella can be a helpful tool in fighting cancer.

Chlorella is available as a dietary supplement and can be found in health food stores or online.

11. Boosts energy

If you are looking for a quick and easy way to boost your energy, chlorella may be the solution for you! Chlorella can be easily added to your diet by mixing it into water or ice cubes. Simply drink one or two glasses per day and enjoy the benefits!

There are many benefits to chlorella that may contribute to better energy levels.

First, chlorella is a good source of protein, which is essential for optimal energy production. It can also help build muscle and repair damaged cells. Additionally, chlorella contains antioxidants that can protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Free radicals are molecules that can cause cancer and other diseases. Having healthy cells enhances various bodily processes, which may cause an increase in energy.

Second, chlorella is a good source of magnesium. Magnesium is essential for energy production because it helps to create ATP (adenosine triphosphate), the molecule that provides energy for muscles to contract. Magnesium also helps to keep blood pressure normal and supports nerve function. In addition, magnesium can help reduce inflammation and improve heart health.

12. Fights off infections

If you’re looking for an all-natural way to keep your body healthy and fight off infections, chlorella might be the perfect supplement for you. Chlorella is a microalgae that can help improve overall health by reducing inflammation, boosting the immune system, and cleansing the gut.

Chlorella can fight off infections as a result of its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants in chlorella neutralize free radicals, which are molecules that can damage cells and cause disease. In addition to fighting free radicals, chlorella has antiviral and antibacterial properties. It has specifically been shown to inhibit the growth of harmful bacteria such as E. coli and Salmonella.

13. Enhances cognitive functions and promotes brain health

Chlorella has been studied extensively over the years. It has proven to be one of the most effective supplements for improving brain health, including mental focus and memory. Chlorella might also reduce inflammation in the brain, which is a common factor in many neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer’s.

Here are five ways chlorella can help your brain:

Chlorella can help reduce inflammation in the body. Inflammation is associated with a number of chronic diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease, heart disease, and cancer. Reduction of inflammation can improve your overall health and protect your brain from damage.

Studies have also shown that chlorella’s antioxidant properties can protect brain neurons from damage. Additionally, chlorella helps improve blood flow to the brain, which is critical for healthy cognitive function.

Chlorella can boost your immune system. A strong immune system is essential for protecting your body from infections and disease. It can also help protect your brain from damage caused by toxins and other toxins in the environment. Chlorella can help improve memory function. It contains high levels of B vitamins, including thiamin, niacin, and pyridoxine, which support nerve cell activity in the hippocampus region of the brain. Additionally, chlorella contains trace amounts of B12, which is important for memory formation.

It can help reduce stress. When the body is under stress, it produces cortisol in an attempt to reduce the intensity of the stress response. Cortisol can damage neurons, which then produce and release toxins that cause nerve cell damage.

Chlorella contains high levels of zinc and selenium, both of which help protect neurons against damaging free radicals produced by stress. The main active substance in chlorella is a polysaccharide, a complex carbohydrate that is also considered a molecule similar to cellulose. It acts as a somewhat mild cleanser and antioxidant while also assisting with brain cell regeneration

10 Creative Ways to Use Chlorella

Chlorella can be added to almost any food you enjoy eating. It makes meals tastier while boosting the nutritional value at the same time. Here are 10 ways to use chlorella in your diet.

In a smoothie

Smoothies are a refreshing beverage that can easily be turned into a healthy meal. Creating a smoothie is simple, and the ingredients are typically suited for people of all ages

Add chlorella to smoothies for a boost of nutrients and minerals. Simply mix it into the liquid ingredients before blending. Some great ways to enjoy chlorella include using it in smoothies or juices as a natural alternative to supplements.

Add in other drinks

Depending on your preferred flavor profile, there are several drink options to include chlorella. For example, a refreshing cucumber lime drink is a perfect way to enjoy chlorella’s detoxifying and energizing effects.

Another great option is a green smoothie. Add either fresh or frozen fruit, chlorella, and a healthy amount of yogurt or Greek-style yogurt for added creaminess and health benefits. For a more indulgent option, try a chlorella latte with whipped cream or ice cream.

Whatever you choose to sip on, be sure to enjoy the benefits of chlorella!

Add to salads

If you’re looking for a way to improve your health, try adding chlorella powder to your salads as a source of chlorophyll and protein. Chlorella is one of the best sources of chlorophyll on the planet, containing more than 10 times the amount found in alfalfa sprouts. It also contains high amounts of protein and various other minerals and vitamins. This will literally transform a simple salad into a filling and satisfying meal.

Mix into puddings

Adding chlorella to your puddings can help you reap the benefits of this powerful algae. Chlorella is a complete protein and contains all of the essential minerals and vitamins that our body needs. In addition, chlorella is high in antioxidants and has been shown to support immune system health. Add chlorella to your favorite puddings or desserts for a healthy treat that will leave you feeling satisfied long after eating it.

If you are new to chlorella, start with small amounts and gradually increase as needed to avoid any stomach discomfort.

2. Mix into oatmeal

One of my favorite ways to use chlorella is by adding it into oatmeal. I do about a teaspoon for every half cup of oats. The flavor is barely noticeable, but your body sure does notice all those awesome nutrients! This is also a great way to start off your day with some good nutrition. You can get creative with what else you can include in your oatmeal.
Try mixing other superfoods like blueberries and pumpkin seeds.

Prepare chlorella soup

If you have chlorella handy, why not try making some soup? Boil water and toss in a pinch of salt. Add 1/2 tsp chopped garlic, your favorite herbs and spices (sage, thyme, etc.), and a quarter cup of chlorella powder or flakes. If you like a spicy soup, add some cayenne pepper or fresh chili peppers.

Reduce the heat and let simmer for 10 minutes. You can also add in noodles, rice, beans, or any other veggies you want. This is a simple recipe that will keep you full for hours and provide a great nutritional boost at the same time!

Sprinkle on pasta

There’s no shortage of ways you can use chlorella in your diet. You can add it to smoothies, juice or just plain water, but my favorite way is as a greenish sprinkle on top of pasta or rice dishes. It adds a great texture and crunch!

Similar to spirulina, chlorella can give your pasta an extra nutritional boost. If you’re looking for a way to incorporate more leafy greens into your diet, sprinkle on some spirulina or chlorella before adding your sauce and toppings. You won’t even notice it’s there!

Safety and side effects:

According to the food and drug administration (FDA), chlorella is considered safe for consumption.

However, some sensitive individuals may experience nausea and abdominal discomfort. So if you are new to using chlorella, start slow and see how it goes.

Also, keep in mind that chlorella benefits may vary depending on the species used.

Furthermore, since supplements are often not regulated in some countries, including the US, some products may not meet the standard and claims on the label.

To ensure you’re getting the best value for your money, always look for a quality assurance seal.

How much chlorella should you take?

There is no specific recommendation on how much chlorella to take because there is no conclusive evidence on how much one needs to experience maximum benefits.

While some researchers believe 1.2 grams taken daily is sufficient, some think anything between 5-10 mg daily is okay.

That being said, most companies indicate a dosage of 2-3 grams daily which seems okay compared to the research.

Final thoughts on chlorella benefits:

Chlorella is a green algae that grows in freshwaters.

It’s rich in various nutrients, including vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

Chlorella is often available as a supplement, and regular consumption has been shown to lower cholesterol, improve eye health, boost immunity, and regulate blood glucose and blood pressure levels, among other benefits.

Selecting the best product is always essential to reap the benefits. So buy from a reputable source and always look for the authenticity seal.

While a small percentage of people may experience some side effects, chlorella is safe to consume overall and may provide a great addition to your diet.