What is chlorella?
Chlorella is a freshwater green algae grown mainly in Japan and Taiwan. It contains vitamins and minerals, including iron and vitamin B12 albeit at low levels, and is a complete source of protein, meaning it contains all nine amino acids, making it popular with those on plant-based diets. It is touted as a “superfood” in wellness circles and is available in most high street health food shops in tablet, powder, extract or in the form of tea.
What is chlorella commonly used for?
There are many health indications for chlorella, however, it appears mainly to be used to help manage cholesterol levels, support cardiovascular health and as a “detox” aid.
Why don’t we sell chlorella?
As side from a concerning level of undesirables found in chlorella material, there are also limited studies on safety over long-term use. Side effects such as nausea and abdominal discomfort have been also been reported. Inconsistencies in products exist due to differing methods of crop cultivation, harvesting and processing, and there is insufficient data to determine the amount required to see desired effects. With the absence of testing, traceable source and growing conditions chlorella just doesn’t offer the quality assurances that we insist on.
What are the alternatives?
Over the past 38 years we’ve created a portfolio of compelling heart health products, based on scientific studies and quality ingredients. So look no further if you’re considering supplementing to support cardiovascular wellness. We’ve highlighted particular products below but you can browse the whole range by clicking here.
PulseQ10 is our heart specific formula combining the well-known nutrient CoQ10 with high levels of the important Omega 3s found in fish oil, known as EPA and DHA. These compounds contribute to the normal function of the heart [1].
Plant Sterols block cholesterol from being re-absorbed from the gut into the bloodstream, and any cholesterol not absorbed is simply excreted. Although plant sterols are naturally present in vegetable oils and grains, modern diets tend to be low in these important nutrients, and so it may be difficult to always achieve optimum levels from diet alone.
Final thought
We couldn’t find convincing evidence of chlorella’s efficacy and the quality issue raises concerns for us. Nothing beats a balanced, colourful diet and a healthy lifestyle, which should provide all the nutrients your body needs. For additional support, or for specific health concerns you may wish to consider the products mentioned above.
Need FREE confidential nutrition advice? Contact our Nutrition Advice Team by clicking here.
Further reading… why not browse our Blog articles to find out more about how to support a healthy lifestyle
References:
[1] A beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250mg of DHA & EPA.
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Keri
Keri Filtness has worked in the Nutrition Industry for 19 years. She is regularly called upon for her professional comments on health and nutrition related news. Her opinions have been featured by BBC3, Prima, Vitality, The Mirror, Woman’s Own and Cycling Weekly, amongst others. She has also worked one to one with journalists, analysing their diets and health concerns and recommending changes and additions, where appropriate.
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