Florentina Lewis
Many types of algae are very healthy. In Japan, for example, they belong on almost every table. And Japan in particular is known for its high average age. Coincidence?
Chlorella Species in Check
Chlorella is not an alga, but a whole genus with 24 known subspecies. The most used subspecies are Chlorella Vulgaris and Chlorella sorokiniana. Both are freshwater microalgae. Chlorella can be found in all freshwater, whether lake, river, or even brackish water. Wherever you find fresh water, you will usually also find chlorella.
Chlorella algae vitamins and nutrients
The ingredients of chlorella read impressively. Starting with a protein content of 60 percent, the algae also contain amino acids, lots of iron, magnesium, calcium, phosphorus, zinc, and manganese. According to the latest studies, it even contains 100 micrograms of vitamin B12 per 100 grams. This makes chlorella one of the few plant sources of vitamin B12, which should be particularly good for vegans. A deficiency can be prevented with chlorella.
Chlorella: effect
Let’s get to the truly impressive capabilities of chlorella. The microalgae are said to have a positive effect on anemia, high blood pressure, diabetes, and fibromyalgia and even help against cancer. None of this has been proven. The positive properties are solely statements from users and owners. However, what has now been well-researched is the detoxifying properties of chlorella. It successfully filters heavy metals and other toxins that exist in the environment of our modern world. However, all studies have so far only been carried out safely on mice and rats. There are no reliable human studies.
Chlorella: taste
In powder form, chlorella has a very unique taste. Some describe it as grassy or hay-like, others call it musty. If you don’t like the taste of the chlorella, don’t despair, because it can be easily masked. The microalgae are also available in capsule or tablet form. Then it is tasteless.
You should bear this in mind when eating
In general, chlorella is well tolerated. However, the dosage should not be too high. If this exceeds ten grams for several days, there is a risk of diarrhea, vomiting, headaches, and dizziness. This may be due to the detoxifying effect of the microalgae.
There are a few catches with chlorella. Although the alga has many good properties, not at the recommended daily dose. There are much more nutritious vegetables, such as spinach or broccoli, which offer just as many ingredients and do not have to be restricted. Chlorella has another disadvantage. Your cell membrane cannot be cracked by your body. That is why microalgae pass through our bodies undamaged. So it has to be broken first. You should pay attention to this when buying.
Speaking of purchase: Only buy the dietary supplement from a retailer you trust. Tablets and pills from unknown manufacturers are circulating, especially on the Internet, and they are often contaminated. All in all, chlorella can be used as a dietary supplement, but it doesn’t have to be. Their positive properties are simply too small and too little researched for that. Chlorella is only convincing as a source of vitamin B12 for vegans.
