Chlorella: 7 Benefits & Uses

Chlorella is a superfood native to Taiwan and Japan. It’s a blue-green algae filled with phytonutrients that work to detox heavy metals from the body. Studies have shown that chlorella benefits include improved cardiovascular health, healthy hormone function, lower blood pressure levels and lower cholesterol levels. While nutritional, it’s important to remember that chlorella side effects can occur in some individuals.

Chlorella Benefits

1. Detoxes Heavy Metals

Chlorella benefits include the ability to detox heavy metals from the body. It works by wrapping itself around stubborn toxins such as lead, cadmium, mercury and uranium, to keep them from being reabsorbed. Consuming chlorella on a regular basis can help stop heavy metals from accumulating in the body and causing damage. (1)

2. Detoxes Radiation and Chemotherapy

Chlorella benefits include the ability to detox the body from radiation and chemotherapy damage. Both forms of cancer treatment take a harsh toll on the body. Chlorella has high levels of chlorophyll, which helps protect the body from ultraviolet radiation treatments while removing radioactive particles from the body. (2)

3. Supports the Immune System

According to a 2012 study published in the Nutrition Journal, chlorella benefits the body by supporting the immune system. The study found that after eight weeks of chlorella intake, “natural killer” cell activity improved. The study suggests that chlorella benefits include the ability to help the immune system fight off illness and infection. (3)

4. Makes You Look Younger

Thanks to the antioxidants it contains, chlorella benefits include a younger-looking appearance. Studies have shown that chlorella reduces oxidative stress caused by pollution, a poor diet and stress. It naturally increases Vitamin A and Vitamin C levels in the body to help protect the cells and eliminate free radicals that can cause damage to the skin and other parts of the body.

5. Promotes Weight Loss

Chlorella benefits the body by naturally promoting weight loss. Studies have shown that chlorella intake can lead to reductions in body fat percentage as well as total cholesterol and fasting blood glucose levels. Chlorella helps regulate hormones to improve metabolism and provide the body with energy.

6. Fights Cancer

Chlorella benefits include protection from cancer. Research has shown that chlorella can be taken preemptively to strengthen the immune system and remove heavy metals from the body, reducing the risk of cancer. Chlorella also helps fight cancer by reducing the negative side effects caused by chemotherapy and radiation. (4)

7. Lowers Cholesterol and Blood Sugar

Chlorella benefits include the ability to lower blood sugar levels and cholesterol levels. Consuming chlorella on a daily basis can help reduce the risk of diabetes by improving insulin sensitivity and encouraging healthy cholesterol levels.

Chlorella Side Effects

Chlorella side effects may occur in some individuals, including symptoms that may occur in any detoxification program. Possible chlorella side effects may include swelling of the face or tongue, acne, fatigue, lethargy, headaches, vertigo and an upset stomach. If you are allergic to iodine, consult a health care professional before using chlorella.