Chlorella is a microalgae that is rich in fiber, protein, omega 3, B-vitamins, vitamin A and C, as well minerals such as phosphorus and potassium. Chlorella is also rich in chlorophyll, a green plant pigment that has antioxidant action and can help to prevent diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

Chlorella is normally used as a supplement and can be used to strengthen the immune system, reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels and manage high blood pressure. Chlorella is also recommended for people who adhere to a vegetarian or vegan diet, as it is rich in protein. Because it has strong antioxidant action, and can also be indicated for liver detox diets.

Chlorella can be purchased in health food stores, in some pharmacies or online.

Health benefits

Chlorella can offer several health benefits such as:

1. Maintaining muscle mass

Chlorella is high in high-quality protein, meaning it has all the essential amino acids necessary to form proteins in the body. It is recommended for people who exercise regularly and are wanting to build muscles.

2. Preventing anemia

Chlorella is a great source of iron, which is a mineral that forms part of red blood cells and is important for transporting oxygen throughout the body. Good iron levels can help to prevent iron deficiency anemia. Learn more about that symptoms of iron deficiency anemia and how it can present.

Chlorella can be beneficial for those who are more prone to anemia, such as women with heavy periods, vegetarians or anyone with a health history of a condition that can lead to nutrient deficits.

3. Reducing high blood pressure

Chlorella contains antioxidant compounds, arginine, potassium, magnesium and omega-3, which can help relax arterial walls and prevent inflammation in blood vessels. These factors can help to manage and reduce blood pressure, and can be taken as a supplement for hypertension.

4. Preventing cardiovascular diseases

Chlorella contains niacin, fiber, antioxidants and essential fatty acids, which are nutrients that help reduce LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood. This can prevent the formation of fatty plaques in the arteries, which is associated with cardiovascular diseases like atherosclerosis and myocardial infarction.

5. Managing diabetes

Because it is high in fiber, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory components, chlorella can reduce how sugar is absorbed from the food and improve insulin resistance. It can improve the functioning of insulin, which is beneficial for those managing diabetes. However, to enhance the hypoglycemic effects of chlorella, it is recommended to combine it with aerobic physical activity and a balanced diet.

Furthermore, due to its antioxidant properties, chlorella can help prevent diabetes complications like cataracts.

6. Protecting the liver

Chlorella is rich in antioxidant compounds, and can help improve liver function in people who have liver fibrosis, cirrhosis or cancer. It can also promote optimal cholesterol and blood sugar levels in people who have fatty liver. Learn about the symptoms of fatty liver and how it presents.

This microalgae promotes recovery in people with hepatitis C and helps detoxify the body of mercury, which can accumulate when foods contaminated with this metal (like fish) are ingested.

7. Improving the appearance of skin and hair

Chlorella is rich in beta-carotene, omega-3 and vitamin C, which hydrate the skin and stimulate collagen production. It can prevent the appearance of wrinkles and strengthen hair fibers.

8. Boosting immunity

Because it is rich in omega-3, vitamin C, beta-carotene and a type of fiber called beta-glucan, chlorella has anti-inflammatory and immunological properties. It stimulates the body's defense cells, and prevent infectious diseases and the flu, as well as promote optimal recovery from these conditions.

9. Preventing cancer

This microalgae has anti-cancer activity that prevents the growth and spread of malignant cells. It is rich in antioxidant pigments, such as the carotenoids antheraxanthin, zeaxanthin and lutein, which can inhibit the formation of tumors, and also prevent other neurodegenerative diseases, like Alzheimer's.

10. Helping to treat depression

Because it is high in antioxidants and nutrients, chlorella can help to treat depression.

11. Preventing nutritional deficiencies in vegetarians

Chlorella is a powerful superfood for vegetarians or vegans who do not consume meat or animal-based products. It is rich in high-quality, natural proteins, B vitamins, folates, fatty acids, omega-3 and minerals.

This supplement contains excellent amounts of vitamin B12, a vitamin that can be more difficult to ingest when maintaining a vegan diet. Read about other vitamin B12 foods vegans can incorporate into their diet.

Chlorella vs spirulina

Both chlorella and spirulina are microalgae widely used as supplements, but they differ in their nutritional composition and applications. Chlorella is higher in vitamin A, iron, magnesium, zinc, and chlorophyll, while spirulina offers easier digestibility and higher levels of beta-carotene and phycocyanin.

They also differ in therapeutic use. Chlorella is often preferred for detoxification and liver health, while spirulina is more commonly used for athletic performance and weight management. Both provide complete protein profiles, but chlorella requires cell wall disruption to improve absorption.

Nutrient (per 28 g)	Chlorella	Spirulina
Calories	115	81
Protein	16 g	16 g
Fat	3 g	2 g
Vitamin A	287% DV	3% DV
Iron	202% DV	44% DV
Magnesium	22% DV	14% DV
Zinc	133% DV	4% DV
Copper	0% DV	85% DV

How to take

Chlorella can be consumed as tablets, capsules, powder or liquid extracts. The dosage depends on the health goal and the form used, but most studies recommend between 3 to 10 g per day for general health maintenance.

For specific therapeutic purposes, higher doses may be prescribed under medical supervision. Up to 20 g daily has been used safely in clinical settings, while doses of 6 to 10 g per day are often used for detoxification, immune support or blood sugar control.

Powder can be mixed with smoothies, yogurt or salads, while tablets and capsules allow for more consistent dosing. It is important that supplements are labeled as "broken cell wall chlorella," as this process improves digestibility and nutrient absorption.

Side effects and safety concerns

Chlorella is generally safe when consumed in recommended amounts, but some people may experience mild side effects such as green stools, nausea, diarrhea, bloating, or skin sensitivity to sunlight. Rare allergic reactions can also occur in sensitive individuals.

During pregnancy, clinical studies have shown that chlorella supplementation may be safe and even beneficial, reducing constipation and increasing the antioxidant content of breast milk. However, safety for breastfeeding women and children is not fully established, so medical guidance is essential.

Chlorella can interact with medications such as anticoagulants (due to its vitamin K content), immunosuppressants, and antidiabetic drugs. Another concern is heavy metal contamination during cultivation, as chlorella can absorb pollutants from water. For safety, only supplements tested by third parties and produced under strict quality controls should be used.

Contraindications for use

Chlorella should be avoided by people who are allergic to seafood.

Children, pregnant and breastfeeding women should also avoid using chlorella due to the lack of scientific studies confirming its safety.

People with thyroid problems should also consult an endocrinologist before starting to consume chlorella, as it contains iodine.

Healthy recipes

Chlorella can be used in salads, sorbets, dips, pancakes and even sauce.s

1. Banana sorbet with chlorella

Ingredients

4 frozen bananas
2 kiwis
1 vanilla pod
1 teaspoon of chlorella powder
1 teaspoon of cinnamon powder

Directions

Peel and cut the bananas into slices and place in the freezer for at least 4 hours or until frozen. Then remove the bananas from the freezer and leave at room temperature for 10 minutes. Place all ingredients, except the kiwi, in a blender or processor and blend for approximately 5 minutes, until you obtain an ice cream consistency. Peel the kiwis and cut them into slices or cubes to decorate the banana ice cream. The sorbet should only be blended when ready to consume and, to maintain its consistency, it cannot be frozen after it is ready.

2. Guacamole with chlorella