CHLORELLA SIDE EFFECTS: WHAT YOU WANTED TO KNOW

The freshwater algae chlorella is valued for its many nutrients. These include almost all essential vitamins, fiber and minerals. Chlorella is used nowadays as a dietary supplement in a wide variety of ways: including detoxification, dietary support, or acute nutrient deficiencies. The high benefit of chlorella is beyond question, but: are there also chlorella side effects? For whom can chlorella be dangerous? What do you need to know and consider before using it? Here are our tips and advice on possible side effects of chlorella.

Occasional chlorella side effects:

Especially at the beginning of the therapy with the dietary supplement, it is possible that side effects occur, because our body and our vital system must first get used to the chlorella effect. Typical chlorella side effects include:

- mild nausea

- flatulence

- fatigue

- dizziness

- headache

- digestive problems (diarrhea, constipation)

- chlorella stools: often greenish in color

- acne

However, it is important to note that a key chlorella benefit is to detoxify the body. The complaints listed here are therefore often an effect of the detoxification process, during which harmful substances are transported out of the body (primarily via the intestines and skin). The mobilized toxins can burden the human organism in the purification process, which explains the described malaise, headaches, fatigue and flatulence. One should also expect that chlorella changes the stool during use (among other things, the high chlorophyll content in the algae can cause the stool to turn greenish). Sometimes skin impurities are described, because the body removes some of the harmful substances through the skin. However, it is important to note that these chlorella side effects should subside after a few days. However, if vomiting occurs after use, an overdose of chlorella must be assumed. The chlorella dose must then be reduced or use discontinued/paused.

Potential side effects of Chlorella overdose

Chlorella (like all medications and nootropics) must be used with caution and as directed. A certain danger of chlorella is excessive intake of the products, especially in the context of diets and detoxification. The recommended dosage of Chlorella should always be followed to avoid Chlorella side effects. 

Typical symptoms of chlorella overdose are:

- skin changes/acne

- vomiting

- severe malaise

- headache

- chills

Can Chlorella side effects be avoided?

Unfortunately, this is only possible to a limited extent, because the symptoms mentioned are typical reactions during the detoxification process of the body. However, it is possible to ease them somewhat or to support the body and intestines and to get used to the use of chlorella step by step. Here are some tips to reduce side effects of chlorella:

- Drink plenty of fluids throughout the day, especially at the beginning and in case of nausea!

- Take chlorella with meals instead of on an empty stomach!

- Start the cure with the smallest possible amounts and increase very slowly!

- Avoid chlorella overdose at all costs!

- In case of vomiting/vigorous indisposition: reduce the dose!

- Pay attention to a good product quality!

After a few days the mentioned Chlorella side effects should subside and the body should have become accustomed to the alga. If not, or in case of other severe symptoms, medical help must be sought.

The product quality is immensely important, as algae obtained from polluted, unclean waters (especially in China) may be contaminated by heavy metals or industrial toxins. In this case, taking chlorella can be dangerous. Suppliers from Europe, on the other hand, are usually subject to stricter regulations and offer chlorella algae from controlled aquacultures.

Chlorella capsules from RawPowders, for example, are manufactured in the EU, are pure and without additives.

Interactions of Chlorella: Who should do without it

Is taking chlorella dangerous? No, generally not, however, the algae are not equally suitable for every person. This is especially true for people with certain pre-existing conditions and those taking medications at the same time. Interactions are to be expected in the following cases:

Chlorella in thyroid problems

Algae contain a lot of iodine, but this is not good for everyone. Especially in the case of thyroid disease, it may be that you should avoid iodine. The use of chlorella must therefore be discussed with the doctors treating the patient.

Allergic reactions to chlorella

Those who already suffer from other allergies should take an allergy test before using it as a precaution. Since it is a natural product, intolerances are possible. If skin rashes occur, it could also be a symptom of detoxification, but consultation with specialists is always advisable in these cases as well.

Chlorella interactions with medications

Anyone taking prescription medications (e.g. anticoagulants, iodine tablets, etc.) due to pre-existing conditions should always discuss new or additional medications (including dietary supplements) with treating physicians. The alga can have very positive effects in some cases, but not always.

Meanwhile, caution is advised with chlorella and anticoagulants: Since the alga contains a very high amount of vitamin K, the Chlorella dosage must be set by specialists. Vitamin K can reduce the effect of anticoagulants. The consequences could be severe (depending on the clinical picture). 

The intake of chlorella should also be medically clarified in case of pregnancy or during breastfeeding.

Sources:

https://www.naturfroh.com/chlorella-nebenwirkungen/ 

https://www.chlorella-info.com/verdauung_chlorella.asp 

https://www.wmn.de/health/food/chlorella-nebenwirkungen-id17760 

https://www.chlorella-alge.net/nebenwirkungen.html

https://www.vitamindoctor.com/naehrstoffe/sekundaere-pflanzenstoffe/chlorella 

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