Chlorella Powder

Health Benefits

Another super powered algae power for our list! Less popular than Spirulina, another algae, chlorella will add some green, and many health benefits, to your diet!

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What is Chlorella?

Chlorella is green algae (its name means “small green”) that are cultivated for their high protein content. In the destruction following World War II, it was seen as a potential, saving food source for the starving people in Europe. Today, it’s more of a health food fad in the US and Canada. The algae grow best in carbonated water, making it a little more difficult to find naturally.

Different Ways to Use/Consume

Chlorella is sold as a powder, or as a pill. The powder is used in a variety of health recipes. For a smoothie, try mixing it with coconut or with some blueberries.

Average Cost and Best Deals

Powdered chlorella is difficult to produce in large quantities (which is why it has not become a mass food supplement). Unfortunately, this means that it is one of our pricier recommended powders. A pound of chlorella goes for about $15 – $30 depending on quality. Check your country of origin when pricing these. Quality and source matters for your health when dealing with algae!

Pill chlorella is not much cheaper by volume. You can get a tub of pills from anywhere between $6 and $30 depending on quantity in each pill and quality of the algae.

Health Benefits, Side Effects and Uses of Chlorella Powder

Chlorella got its brief fame in the 1940’s for its high protein content. These algae are over 50% protein by volume. Like spirulina, however, it is also high in calories. 100 grams of the powder has 411 calories. Luckily, most of these are carbs, as only 9% of chlorella is fat. The carbs are a natural energy boost for your body. Plus this algae powder has amino acids, potassium, phosphorous, magnesium, and the B-complex vitamins.

If you’re going through chemotherapy, you may want to take chlorella, as it negates the effects of chemotherapy and radiation on the body. It is also thought to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, and many claim chlorella powder detoxifies the body.

Similar to the concerns regarding spirulina, you need to be careful what sources you buy algae from. Algae from China have been frequently found to be contaminated, or even to contain heavy metals. Look for clean, organic algae whenever possible.

Chlorella is also only known to be safe for short-term use. Consult your doctor if you’re planning on using the supplement for longer than 2 months. Several medications also interact with chlorella, so be sure you’re in the clear before supplementing your diet. If you’re allergic to mold, you may also be allergic to chlorella, so proceed with caution. Do not use this powder if you’re pregnant, breast-feeding, or may become pregnant, as chlorella is hard on the immune system. Finally, chlorella may cause your skin to be extra sensitive to sun damage, so stock up on the sunblock!

Why Chlorella Powder?

Protein power! By adding chlorella to your diet, you ensure you’ll be getting a healthy daily dose. Perfect for retaining and growing muscles.

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