Chlorella

Origin and history

The algae Chlorella ( Chlorella vulgaris ) are green, single-celled organisms whose name is derived from the Greek word chlōros, meaning green, and the Latin word ella, meaning small. The small green algae can be found in fresh water and is mainly produced in Japan, Germany and Taiwan for the production of nutritional supplements and medicine. The main consumer, Japan, uses it mainly as a dietary supplement or protein-containing food additive.  

 

Chlorella is ideal as a vegan protein source because the dried mass of the algae contains a whopping 42-58% protein in addition to important nutrients such as vitamin B12, iron and omega-3 fatty acids. Vitamin B12 is particularly important because our body needs it in a variety of metabolic reactions. Microalgae such as chlorella are also a source of a variety of minerals such as magnesium and zinc, important vitamins such as vitamins C and E, and essential fatty acids. Chlorella is also rich in antioxidants, chlorophyll and other vital substances, making it a popular addition to a balanced diet.  

Studies have shown that this algae has numerous potential health benefits. In some animal studies, immunomodulatory and anti-cancer properties have been observed with chlorella supplementation. Several human studies have reported that chlorella can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, as well as improve fat levels and blood sugar levels. Mind you, this was not observed in all studies. However, the fat-lowering effect on LDL cholesterol is expected when taken between 0-1500 mg per day. The anti-oxidant properties of chlorella suggest, based on one study, that it also has liver-protecting properties. Some studies also suggest a blood pressure-lowering effect.  

Sustainability 

Chlorella is considered an environmentally friendly source of protein. Their high growth rate and the ability to grow them in controlled environments make them a sustainable alternative to traditional protein sources.  

Possible side effects  

Although chlorella is generally considered safe, some people may experience allergic reactions or gastrointestinal distress  

Which AgilNature® products contain chlorella? 

*Nutrient Reference Value = Percentage of the reference value according to Appendix XIII of the Food Information Regulation (EC) No. 1169/2011.  

** No recommendation available.  

Literature: 

1. Safi, C., Zebib, B., Merah, O., Pontalier, PY, & Vaca-Garcia, C. (2014). "Morphology, composition, production, processing and applications of Chlorella vulgaris: A review". Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews. 35: 265–278.
2. Kumudha A, Selvakumar S, Dilshad P, Vaidyanathan G, Thakur MS, Sarada R (2015). "Methylcobalamin--a form of vitamin B12 identified and characterized in Chlorella vulgaris". Journal of Food Chemistry. 170: 316-320.
3. Barghchi H, Dehnavi Z, Nattagh-Eshtivani E, Alwaily ER, Almulla AF, Kareem AK, Barati M, Ranjbar G, Mohammadzadeh A, Rahimi P, Pahlavani N. The effects of Chlorella vulgaris on cardiovascular risk factors: A comprehensive review on putative molecular mechanisms. Biomed Pharmacother. 2023 Jun;162:114624.
4. Justo GZ, Silva MR, Queiroz ML. Effects of the green algae Chlorella vulgaris on the response of the host hematopoietic system to intraperitoneal honest ascites tumor transplantation in mice. Immunopharmacol Immunotoxicol. 2001 Feb;23(1):119-32.
5. Yasukawa K, Akihisa T, Kanno H, Kaminaga T, Izumida M, Sakoh T, Tamura T, Takido M. Inhibitory effects of sterols isolated from Chlorella vulgaris on 12-0-tetradecanoylphorbol-13-acetate-induced inflammation and tumor promotion in mouse skin. Biol Pharm Bull. 1996 Apr;19(4):573-6.
6. Eissa MM, Ahmed MM, Abd Eldaim MA, Mousa AA, Elkirdasy AF, Mohamed MA, Orabi SH. Chlorella vulgaris ameliorates sodium nitrite-induced hepatotoxicity in rats. Environ Sci Pollut Res Int. 2021 Feb;28(8):9731-9741.
7. Sherafati N, Bideshki MV, Behzadi M, Mobarak S, Asadi M, Sadeghi O. Effect of supplementation with Chlorella vulgaris on lipid profile in adults: A systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials. Complement Ther Med. 2022 Jun;66:102822.
8. Neumann, Ulrike & Bischoff, Stephan. (2018). Microalgae in human nutrition – a sensible future perspective? Current nutritional medicine. 43. 102-110. 10.1055/a-0595-6520.