5 Benefits That Prove Chlorella Is the Ultimate Green Superfood

From adaptogens to healing spices to superherbs, it isn't always easy to stay current with what's hot right now in the health world. It was only a year ago that I was introduced to ashwagandha and maca, and even more recently, I finally learned how to pronounce them. Now, I add them to my morning smoothies regularly and laud their effects to my friends.

One of the latest superfood supplements to make a splash on the health scene is chlorella. We reached out to dietitians Lisa Moskovitz and Amy Shapiro to answer all our questions about what it is and how to incorporate it into a diet best. Ahead, learn everything you need to know before taking chlorella, from benefits to potential side effects.

What is Chlorella?

Chlorella is a green algae plant grown in freshwater as opposed to seawater. You may have heard of its cousin, spirulina, which has a bigger presence in the United States; most of the chlorella and spirulina in the U.S. is grown in Japan or Taiwan.

"[Chlorella] is very nutrient-dense and is rich in protein, iron, B12, calcium, omega-3s, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals," says Shapiro. All the benefits packed into this unassuming water plant mean it more than earns its superfood designation.

Benefits of Chlorella

• Delivers a high amount of nutrients to the body: In case you missed the list above, chlorella is packed with good-for-you stuff like protein, antioxidants, fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals.
• Helps the body process heavy metals and detox: One of chlorella's best-known benefits is that it's a great ingredient for helping rid your body of all the ickiness that comes from processed foods, the environment, and life in general: "It is very helpful in removing heavy metals from the body (binds with them) and assists with detoxifying the body from harmful toxins found in food and the environment that can disrupt our hormonal balance," says Shapiro.
• Provides protective benefits to the body: "Chlorella earns its superior reputation from its additional protective or health-enhancing benefits," says Moskowitz. "While studies are mixed, this edible algae may also help strengthen the immune system, as well as possibly lower cholesterol, blood pressure, and manage blood sugars."
• Aids weight loss: Research has shown that consuming chlorella improves gut health which may aid weight loss efforts and help to maintain a healthy weight.

How to Take Chlorella

Chlorella in its unadulterated form is too tough for the human body to digest: "Since we do not break down the cell walls of the whole plant, we need to enjoy them as supplements: either capsule, tablet, powder, or tincture," says Shapiro. "I enjoy the tablets and chew them as a quick snack with water; they have a nutty flavor." 

Capsules and powder supplements are the most common ways to introduce your new green best friend into your diet. "If you're up for a challenge, you can also find creative ways to add chlorella powder to smoothies, sauces, soups, muffins, or bread," says Moskowitz. She warns that heating may diminish some of the nutritional benefits, but definitely not all. 

Possible Side Effects

Even with all the upsides to chlorella, there can always be too much of a good thing. Some people may experience abdominal discomfort when starting to integrate chlorella, notes Shapiro, so it is best to start slowly; introduce a small amount, and gradually work up to larger doses. She also recommends researching supplements to find one without a lot of additives. Other potential side effects to look out for are nausea, diarrhea, and skin sensitivity.

The Difference Between Chlorella and Spirulina

Since they're both parts of the green algae family, chlorella and spirulina have many similar benefits. According to our experts, chlorella is a powerful detoxifier, removing unwanted metal buildup and other possibly toxic waste from the body. Spirulina, on the other hand, is higher in protein than its cousin. "I like to recommend spirulina for energy and chlorella for detoxing, cholesterol, etc.," says Shapiro.

The Final Takeaway

Chlorella will protect your body and up your nutrient-intake game in a major way, all while cleaning out the ick in your system from living life. Get the go-ahead from your doctor before introducing it into your diet, and start slowly to ensure minimal side effects. After that, all there is left to do is kick back and watch this green giant work its magic.