Chlorella is a green freshwater algae known for its detoxifying properties. Chlorella also contains numerous nutrients such as protein, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants . It is said to have many positive effects on the body.
Let's take a closer look at Chlorella.
Ingredients of Chlorella
Chlorella contains protein, carbohydrates, fiber and fat. The algae is also rich in vitamins, minerals and especially chlorophyll. It also contains traces of beta-carotene and other carotenoids.
The nutrient content varies depending on the type and production process.
|
Nutrient |
Content per g dry weight |
|
Vitamin B1 |
0.03 – 0.05mg |
|
Vitamin B2 |
0.3 – 0.5mg |
|
Vitamin B3 |
2 – 3mg |
|
Vitamin B6 |
0.1 – 0.2mg |
|
Folic acid |
20 – 40 µg |
|
Vitamin B12 |
1.0 – 2.5 µg |
|
Vitamin C |
20 – 60mg |
|
Vitamin E |
0.5 – 3.0mg |
|
magnesium |
Approx. 15 mg |
|
iron |
Approx. 1 mg |
|
potassium |
Approx. 55 mg |
|
Calcium |
Approx. 30 mg |
What does chlorella do?
Due to the numerous vitamins and minerals and the high chlorophyll content, chlorella is said to have various effects.
The effects of chlorella are still being scientifically studied, but there are some promising results.
Chlorella and the immune system
Chlorella contains many nutrients that are important for the immune system : vitamin C , zinc , iron and antioxidants. Antioxidants counteract oxidative stress and inflammation, which can weaken the immune system.
In one study, the concentration of antibodies in saliva increased after supplementing with chlorella. [1] This could mean that pathogens can be better fought off.
Chlorella for detoxification
Chlorella is known for its detoxifying effect . The chlorophyll contained in the algae is said to be primarily responsible for this. Chlorophyll is a natural detoxifying agent that binds harmful substances so that they can be excreted. Chlorella is also said to be able to bind heavy metals. Heavy metals can cause great damage to the body and are not easy to detoxify.
In initial studies, mercury levels decreased in a small group of subjects after taking chlorella. [2] However, this needs to be confirmed by further studies.
Chlorella and triglycerides
At These are so-called blood fats. They are much better markers for cardiovascular risk than cholesterol .
It is not understood in detail how chlorella lowers triglycerides. Scientists suspect that this is due to its high fiber content.
In initial studies, chlorella appeared to be able to lower triglycerides. [3] However, this needs to be confirmed in further studies.
Risks and side effects of chlorella
Chlorella is very safe and is usually well tolerated. In rare cases, chlorella can cause diarrhea, constipation, nausea, or headaches.
Due to the high chlorophyll content, the stool may turn green. However, this is completely harmless.
Buying Chlorella: What you should pay attention to
Unfortunately, chlorella is often heavily contaminated with toxins. Because it binds toxic substances so well, it also absorbs toxins from the environment. Chlorella preparations often contain increased levels of heavy metals.
When it comes to chlorella, you should therefore make sure that it comes from controlled cultivation. Ideally, it should be cultivated in a closed system so that it does not come into contact with pollutants from the environment. It is also referred to as "indoor chlorella".
High-quality preparations are also tested for harmful substances and do not contain any unnecessary additives.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3182968/
[2] https://www.jstage.jst.go.jp/article/fts/5/3/5_117/_article/-char/ja/
[3] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4066283/
