Chlorella

Chlorella is available in a variety of pharmaceutical and food forms, tailored to the needs of different user groups:

• Chlorella in tablets, capsules or tablets;
• Pure organic chlorella powder, with broken cell walls for optimal absorption;

Organic forms are certified to European Union standards, being free from gluten, lactose, genetically modified organisms, irradiation or chemical contaminants.

Chlorella is recommended as a staple or complementary food in numerous nutritional situations:

• gluten-free diets and elimination diets;
• supporting digestive health and preventing constipation;
• maintaining body weight, thanks to its satiating effect;
• regulation of blood sugar and cholesterol levels;
• supporting cardiovascular health through the provision of Omega-3 fatty acids;
• nutritional support in cases of anaemia and during periods of convalescence.

The administration of chlorella varies depending on the form of presentation and the intended use.

For example, Chlorella Herbagetica is taken at the standard dose of 1 capsule 4 times a day, 30 minutes before meals; in cases of chronic or serious conditions, the dose may be adjusted under the supervision of a specialist.

Children are given 1 capsule 3 times a day, as recommended by a doctor.

Courses of treatment generally last 30–60 days, followed by breaks of 10–15 days.

Although chlorella is considered safe for most people, caution is advised in certain situations:

• gout or hyperuricaemia;
• kidney stones;
• phenylketonuria;
• iodine allergy;
• autoimmune diseases or serious acute conditions.

Pregnant or breastfeeding women, as well as children under the age of 12, should only use this product on the advice of a doctor.

For optimal digestive tolerance, it is recommended to start the treatment with small doses, increasing them gradually. The product should preferably be taken in the morning and at midday, and should not be consumed after 6.00 pm due to its energising effect. 

The broken-down cell walls in high-quality products facilitate nutrient absorption and reduce the risk of bloating.

At the recommended doses, chlorella is well tolerated. Transient symptoms may occasionally occur, such as:

• abdominal discomfort;
• bloating;
• mild nausea;
• diarrhoea.

These symptoms usually appear in the first few days of taking the supplement and are associated with the detoxification process.

Chlorella may interact with:

• anticoagulants, due to its vitamin K content;
• hormone therapies or oral contraceptives;
• medicines for autoimmune diseases.

No significant interactions with food have been reported, but it is recommended to take it between meals for optimal absorption.

An overdose of chlorella may cause digestive upset, abdominal cramps, insomnia or agitation. In such cases, it is recommended to stop taking it and resume with a lower dose once symptoms have subsided.

The product must be stored in its original, tightly sealed packaging, in a dry place, away from light and heat. Once opened, the powder must be protected from moisture and direct sunlight. Best used before the expiry date shown on the packaging.

• PubMed, The potential of chlorella as a dietary supplement for promoting human health
• ScienceDirect, Chlorella vulgaris, a representative edible algae as a complementary and alternative medicine
• MDPI, Chemical compounds, bioactivity and applications of Chlorella vulgaris in food, nutrition and medicine
• IFT, Chlorella vulgaris as a food substitute: applications and benefits in the food industry