Chlorella is one of the most popular foods, often sought after not only by fans of a plant-based diet, but also by athletes who rely onInstead of multivitamins, they prefer, for example, the products we have discussed in our ranking of the best greens. But what is chlorella? And what are its scientifically based benefits? That's what we'll look at in this article.
What is chlorella?
Chlorella is a unicellular algae that originated in the freshwater regions of Japan and Taiwan. It is characterised by its emerald green colour, which is due to its relatively high chlorophyll content and thechlorella may at first sight slightly resemble some types of green tea. However, apart from the colour, the nutritional profile of this algae is also interesting. More than 50% of chlorella is protein, and it has been shown to be a bioavailable source of vitamin B12, iron, vitamin C, antioxidants and even omega 3 and fibre.
What are the benefits of chlorella?
Of course, this algae has a number of scientifically proven benefits that knowmostly stem from the wide range of vitamins and minerals that chlorella contains. So let's take a brief look at some of them:
It can optimize cholesterol
The first potential benefit of chlorella is its possible ability to optimize cholesterol levels. There are several different studies on this topic that have shown that regular use ofregular use of chlorella at a dose of 5 to 10 grams can lower both total and LDL ("bad") cholesterol. It should be noted that the reductions occurred in the observed subjects with high blood pressure and/or elevated cholesterol levels. Thus, the effect on healthy individuals is of course debatable, but people with elevated cholesterol may potentially benefit from chlorella supplementation.
It may act as an antioxidant
Chlorella contains several substances that can be considered antioxidants - for example, vitamin C, chlorophyll, beta carotene, lycopene and lutein. Several studies have been conducted on this topic, but again there is a lack of evidence in healthy individuals. However, from the currently available research, it seems that smokers who are naturally exposed to higher levels ofhigher levels of oxidative stress, taking chlorella may actually increase antioxidant levels in the body.
They can optimize pressure
Some research also suggests that regular use of chlorella could, due to its content of arginine, potassiumand calcium, as well as omega-3s, can lead to improved cardiovascular and kidney health. Again, however, the studies work mostly with people with higher blood pressure, who, while showing better results than the group alreadyplacebo group, but it is difficult to say whether chlorella has any potential effect on healthy individuals in this regard.
They may improve performance
So far, there is not a lot of research looking at the effect of chlorella on performance. Those that do exist, however, show that a group taking 6 grams of chlorella daily for four weeks experienced improved endurance compared to a control group taking a placebo, where there was no change. This effect has so far been attributed to the amino acids contained in chlorella, however, to confirm of this effect and any further explanation of the mechanism of action will have to wait.
Other potential benefits
Other studies conducted, for example, suggest that chlorella may optimize blood sugar levels, may benefitbeneficial for the elimination of heavy metals, and may also potentially benefit our immune system.
Does chlorella have any disadvantages?
Chlorella is generally considered to be a safe substance, however, due to the fact that in somein some countries, you cannot be sure that you are getting what it says on the label. Some individuals have also reported nausea and abdominal discomfort according to available studies, but this is not a common side effect. However, it is definitely a good idea to follow the dosage stated by the manufacturer directly on the label of the specific product. This substance should be avoided especially if you have problems with the venous system, useregularly take medications that affect the immune system or blood density, or if you have thyroid problems. If you are taking other medications regularly, we recommend that you consult your doctor to be sure.
Taking chlorella
It is generally recommended to use between 6 and 10 grams of chlorella in a single daily dose. However, it also depends on whether you choose to take chlorella alone or as part of one of the complexgreens, which we discuss in more detail in our comparison of the best greens. There, chlorella alone is often only one gram, but when combined with spirulina, young barley and other substances, this is not a problem.
Which chlorella to choose?
When it comes to choosing the right chlorella, you have a variety of different supplements to choose from. Chlorella itself is most commonly sold either in tablet form or as a powder.powder, with the powder having a much wider range of uses. It can be incorporated into a wide variety of recipes, added to smoothies or even guacamole and other dips. Our comparison of the best supplements will undoubtedly help you choose the right one. chlorella supplements that we have compiled for you based on our independent testing. The products that succeeded in the ranking include:
Why can you trust us?
Hey! Hey! I'm Mirek and I've been working at World Fitness almost since the beginning, except for a small break. But before that I lived only in the gym for a few years, doing deadlifts and power triathlon, going to competitions and winning a few medals.
Probably the one I value the most is the national record in the WUAP federation. But besides working out, I was also interested in food and supplements, I liked to enjoy my free timeI used to read different researches and professional books in my free time to know as much as possible.