Chlorella is a bright green algae used as a food and dietary supplement. It is rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, omega-3 fatty acids, and carotenoids like beta-carotene and lutein that combat free radicals. By preventing cell damage caused by free radicals, chlorella may help reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease, cognitive disorders like Alzheimer's, and even certain cancers.
Chlorella is also considered a "superfood" high in protein, iron, dietary fiber, B vitamins, and complex carbohydrates. These nutrients may help prevent iron deficiency during pregnancy. Chlorella is also used to treat high cholesterol, menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, and depression, although the scientific evidence supporting these claims is lacking.
This article describes the uses and benefits of chlorella as a dietary supplement as well as the possible risks, side effects, and interactions.
Dietary supplements are not regulated in the United States, meaning the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) does not approve them for safety and effectiveness before products are marketed. When possible, choose a supplement that has been tested by a trusted third party, such as USP, ConsumerLabs, or NSF.
However, even if supplements are third-party tested, that doesn't mean that they are necessarily safe for all or effective in general. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about any supplements you plan to take and to check in about any potential interactions with other supplements or medications.
Supplement Facts
- Active ingredient(s): Beta-carotene, chlorophyll, lycopene, lutein
- Alternate Name(s): Bulgarian green algae, Chlorelle, Yaeyama chlorella
- Suggested Dose: No guidelines available; research doses range from 1 to 6 grams daily
- Safety Considerations: May contain iodine, high vitamin K content (see Interactions)
What Is Chlorella Used For?
Supplement use should be individualized and vetted by a healthcare professional, such as a registered dietitian, pharmacist, or doctor. No supplement is intended to treat, cure, or prevent a disease.
Chlorella is a good source of many nutrients, such as protein, iron, fibers, carbohydrates, antioxidants, and more. Because of its nutritional content, some people claim that it can be used for a range of health conditions. However, there is not enough evidence to support most of its claims.
Below are a few possible uses of chlorella with research.
Lowers High Cholesterol
High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart diseases. Diet modifications are recommended to reduce cholesterol levels when high. Medications are also often prescribed to treat high cholesterol levels. However, there is much interest in alternative ways to reduce cholesterol.
Chlorella has been studied as cholesterol-lowering aid.
According to a 2014 study published in Nutrition Journal, a daily 416-milligram (mg) dose of chlorella improved blood lipid levels in 62 adults with moderately elevated cholesterol. Not only were there reductions in total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL ("bad") cholesterol, but there were also increases in HDL ("good") cholesterol.
A meta-analysis published in 2018 found that chlorella supplementation in amounts of 4 grams daily for at least eight weeks significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL-C cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar compared to placebo.
A more recent trial published in 2021 found that smaller doses (1,500 milligrams per day) in people with diabetes positively affected lipid profiles and blood sugar levels.
Another meta-analysis published in 2022 concluded that chlorella supplementation reduced total and LDL cholesterol but did not improve triglycerides or HDL cholesterol. The effects were seen at 1,500 milligrams per day, whereas higher doses had no effect.
More research is needed before recommending chlorella supplementation for high cholesterol. Consult your healthcare provider first before starting any supplement.
Herbs and Supplements That Lower Cholesterol
Reduces Anemia Risk During Pregnancy
Iron requirements increase during pregnancy, sometimes leading to anemia if the pregnant person becomes iron-deficient. Chlorella happens to be a great source of iron.
In a 2010 study in the journal Plant Food for Human Nutrition, researchers in Japan provided 70 pregnant people with either a daily 6-gram (6,000-milligram) dose of a chlorella supplement or a placebo. Treatment started from 12 to 18 weeks of gestation and continued until delivery.
When compared to the placebo group, the people in the study given chlorella had significantly higher hemoglobin levels during their second and third trimesters. Low hemoglobin levels are used to diagnose anemia.
Interestingly, those that received chlorella also had a lower incidence of edema (tissue swelling), proteinuria (protein in urine), and gestational hypertension (high blood pressure).
Chlorella may be useful in lowering cholesterol levels but further research is needed to determine efficacy and appropriate dose. Chlorella is also a good source of iron for those at risk of iron deficiency anemia.
Side Effects of Chlorella
Chlorella is generally considered safe and well-tolerated. With that said, chlorella can cause side effects, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. These include:
- Stomach cramps
- Nausea
- Gas
- Diarrhea
- Green stool
Additionally, allergic reactions, including asthma and anaphylaxis, have been reported.
Most of these side effects tend to resolve as your body adapts to treatment.
Chlorella may also cause photosensitivity, increasing the risk of sun rash and sunburn. To help mitigate this effect, wear plenty of sunscreen and avoid excessive sun exposure.
Precautions
Chlorella is not expected to cause adverse effects in a breastfed infant. However, it can cause breastmilk to turn green. If you are breastfeeding or plan to breastfeed, it is best to consult a healthcare provider about chlorella use.
Chlorella's safety in children has also not been established.
People allergic to mold may also be allergic to chlorella. To be safe, take a smaller "test" dose of chlorella and wait 24 to 48 hours to see if any allergy symptoms develop. The same concerns apply if you have an iodine allergy since chlorella is especially high in iodine.
Chlorella also could cause a bad reaction in people with thyroid disease, given that excess intake of iodine can cause a worsening of hyperthyroid symptoms or an "iodine crash" in people with hypothyroidism.
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How To Take Chlorella
There are no guidelines for the appropriate use or amounts of chlorella to take.
Daily intake ranging from 3 grams (g) to 10 g orally is common.
Never exceed the dose recommended by the manufacturer. If anything, start with the smallest possible dose and increase it gradually. Doing so may help you avoid gastrointestinal side effects.
Tablets are the easiest form of chlorella to use as the dose is controlled and consistent. If using a powder or liquid, use exact measurements to avoid underdosing or overdosing.
Chlorella powder can be mixed with water, juice, yogurt, and smoothies, but be aware that it has a slightly seaweedy smell and flavor. Some people find that adding it to vinaigrette dressings, miso soups, stir-fries, or wheatgrass can conceal the smell and taste. Cooking chlorella does not diminish its nutritional value.
What Happens If I Take Too Much Chlorella?
There is not much information on chlorella and dosing, but you may be more likely to experience side effects if taking too much.
Interactions
Chlorella contains high amounts of vitamin K, which can promote blood clotting and reduce the efficacy of blood thinners like Jantoven (warfarin). If you are prescribed warfarin, talk with your healthcare provider about any supplements you are taking (or planning to take), including chlorella. The healthcare provider should order blood tests to monitor how well the warfarin is working and may make adjustments to the dose if needed.
Chlorella may amplify the effects of any photosensitizing medications (drugs that increase sensitivity to sunlight), putting you at greater risk of sunburn. Be sure to stay out of the sun or use sunscreen.
How to Store Chlorella
Follow the manufacturer's instructions on the product label for storage. Always store out of reach of children.
Similar Supplements
Spirulina and kelp are two other popular algae-based supplements.
Spirulina is a blue-green algae that contains nutrients, including fat-soluble vitamins, beta carotene, and minerals.
Kelp is a type of brown seaweed that typically grows in underwater forests. It provides nutrition for sea life but is also a food staple for humans. As a supplement, it is often used as a source of iodine.
The Health Benefits of Spirulina Algae
Sources of Chlorella & What to Look For
Chlorella is mostly available in supplement form in the United States (U.S.). It can readily be sourced online as well as in many natural food stores and shops specializing in dietary supplements.
Tablets are the easiest form of chlorella to use as the dose is controlled and consistent. If using a powder or liquid, use exact measurements to avoid under-dosing or overdosing.
To ensure quality and safety, opt for brands that have been tested and certified by an independent body like the U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP), ConsumerLab, or NSF. Contamination often occurs with algae-based ingredients. The presence of a USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab seal tells you the product was tested for the presence of contaminants, such as arsenic and lead, and that none were found.
One type of algae, called Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, is known to have toxins and is best avoided.
Though you may be tempted to buy the "real" chlorella from Asia, doing so requires caution. If you cannot read the language on the product label, you can never know for sure what other ingredients may be in the supplement (or what ingredients may be missing).
According to the National Center for Complementary and Integrative Health, Chinese herbal remedies have been found to be contaminated with pesticides, heavy metals, drugs, and undeclared animal and plant products.
Summary
Chlorella is an algae-based supplement rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. It is often promoted as a good source of these nutrients for people that don't consume adequate fruits and vegetables in their diet. However, many of the promoted health benefits of chlorella are not supported by research.
A diet that provides at least five servings of fruits and vegetables daily will provide many vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that you need. Green powders and algae-based supplements should not be considered an alternative to a diet rich in fruits and vegetables.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does chlorella help to alkalinize the body?
While marketing uses this term in promoting products, no food or beverage can significantly change the pH level of your blood (pH refers to whether a substance is acidic, alkaline, or neutral). The idea that many foods we eat in our diet are acidic and can lead to disease is theoretical and not based on evidence. Our lungs and kidneys are involved in tightly regulating the pH of blood no matter what we eat. A pH level in your blood out of the normal range is not desirable and would lead to further health concerns.
Can chlorella help to reduce symptoms associated with fibromyalgia?
Some preliminary (early) evidence indicates that chlorella supplementation can help to reduce pain symptoms associated with fibromyalgia. In one study, a combination of chlorella tablets and liquid extract helped to reduce pain symptoms when compared to a placebo. More research would help to determine the best form of supplement and appropriate doses. Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider if you are considering using chlorella.
Is chlorella supplementation good for your liver?
Some preliminary (early) evidence suggests that chlorella supplementation reduced liver enzymes and markers of inflammation (compared to placebo) in people with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD). Further research is still needed. If you are considering chlorella supplementation, discuss the pros and cons with your healthcare provider first.
FAQs
What is chlorella used for? ›
It's made into tablets and liquid extracts. Chlorella is used to prevent low levels of iron during pregnancy. It is also used for depression, menstrual cramps, fibromyalgia, high cholesterol, and other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support many of these uses.
How do you take chlorella? ›Ideally, take chlorella in the morning and other pills at night. If it is more convenient, chlorella can be taken in two or three doses throughout the day rather than all at once. Take chlorella before meals and with a large glass of water.
Why is chlorella so good for you? ›It is naturally rich in proteins, vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber. Its reported benefits include boosting antibody count, promoting weight loss, and fighting cancer and other diseases. Chlorella contains a range of nutrients, including proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and minerals, including antioxidants.
What does chlorella remove from the body? ›To date, chlorella appears to be the most effective natural solution for the removal of heavy metals, dioxins and PCBs. Chlorella cleans our fluids (blood, lymph), our tissues, our emunctories (intestines, liver, kidneys, skin, lungs). This cleansing is an essential prerequisite for any recovery of our health.