Chlorella is a species of unicellular green algae that is widely appreciated for its many health benefits. It has been used for centuries by traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine to treat a wide range of ailments, and in recent years it has only increased in popularity as more and more people have learned about its benefits. Read more about the benefits of chlorella here. Chlorella is rich in important proteins, vitamins, minerals antioxidants and essential fatty acids that can help improve overall health and well-being, as well as boosting immunity and protecting the body against disease. Chlorella also improves digestion, reduces inflammation and strengthens the overall immune system. 

 

What is chlorella?

Chlorella grows in freshwater ponds. It is a unicellular organism belonging to the phylum Cyanobacteria. There are more than 100 species of chlorella, but the most common species is called chlorella vulgaris. It is an excellent source of protein, B vitamins, iron, zinc, magnesium and other minerals as well as fibre and chlorophyll. Chlorella is also rich in antioxidants, which makes it useful in fighting free radicals and preventing disease. Chlorella supplements are available in powder form or in capsules if you prefer to take a concentrated preparation.

 

Nutritional properties of chlorella

Chlorella is particularly rich in the B vitamins riboflavin and niacin. Riboflavin is essential for energy metabolism and red blood cell production. Niacin is particularly important for brain function and nervous system health. Chlorella is also an excellent source of dietary fibre: it improves the functioning of the digestive system by preventing constipation and stimulating the growth of healthy intestinal bacteria. It is also rich in chlorophyll, a substance with many anti-cancer properties. 

 

Health benefits of chlorella

- Protein. Chlorella is a source of protein. Protein is essential for building and repairing the body's tissues, building muscles and maintaining healthy bones, hair and nails. 

- Antioxidants. Chlorella is rich in antioxidants, which help fight free radicals that can damage the body's cells. Antioxidants are particularly useful in preventing chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, cancer and diabetes. 

- B vitamins. Chlorella is rich in B vitamins, which are important for energy metabolism, nervous system function and fatigue prevention. 

- Digestive health. Chlorella is a source of fibre, which not only improves the functioning of the digestive system, but also helps to prevent constipation and supports the growth of beneficial intestinal bacteria. 

- Immune health. Chlorella is rich in iron, zinc and selenium - minerals that are important for immune health, protect against infections and naturally boost energy levels. 

- Blood health. Chlorella is also rich in copper, a mineral that improves the body's absorption of iron and helps prevent anaemia. 

- Blood pressure. Chlorella contains a significant amount of potassium, a mineral that is useful in preventing cardiovascular disease and can help lower blood pressure.

 

How to take chlorella?

For optimal health benefits, chlorella can be taken daily as a food supplement. It is traditionally taken in powder or tablet form, but is also available as a liquid or in capsules. Chlorella can be mixed into drinks or added to food such as salads or porridge. Depending on the form of chlorella you choose, you can take it alone or with other foods. 

 

Possible side effects of chlorella

Chlorella is generally considered safe for most people when taken for short periods of time. Although rare, nausea, vomiting, headaches or abdominal cramps may occur. Chlorella may also interact with certain medications such as blood pressure lowering drugs, anticoagulants, antibiotics, insulin, and antidiabetic drugs. If you are taking any medications, it is important to discuss this with your doctor before taking chlorella. You can read more about the side effects of chlorella here.