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Heart/Inflammation/Weight

Chlorella

Freshwater green microalga studied for modest cholesterol and triglyceride reductions, with emerging evidence for metabolic and inflammatory markers.

Chlorella
50
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk

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Use with caution

This supplement may interact with medications, medical conditions or sensitive populations. Review safety before use.

Quick Take

Modest lipid benefits with mixed evidence; low return if your diet is already solid.

Chlorella is a single-celled green freshwater microalga sold as a powder or tablet; it is usually cultivated rather than eaten as a typical food. It supplies chlorophyll, protein, carotenoids, and cell-wall polysaccharides. Its cell-wall fibers and pigments may bind bile acids and act as antioxidants, which could modestly improve blood lipids, blood pressure, and inflammatory markers. People with mildly elevated cholesterol or triglycerides, or low vegetable/algae intake, are most likely to notice benefit.

Potential benefits

01
Lowers LDL cholesterol and triglyce
02
May improve fasting blood glucose
03
May reduce CRP and inflammation
04
May improve antioxidant status
05
May lower blood pressure

Protocol

Amount
3-6 g
Frequency
Once daily
When
With meals to improve absorption and reduce gastrointestinal upset.

Onset Time

8-12 weeks for lipid and glucose changes.

Who Should Consider

Adults with mildly elevated LDL or triglycerides
People with low vegetable or algae intake
Vegans or vegetarians seeking a plant-based supplement
People with mildly elevated blood pressure

How It Works

Chlorella's cell-wall polysaccharides and pigments may bind bile acids in the intestine, increasing fecal cholesterol loss. Its carotenoids and chlorophyll have antioxidant activity that may reduce lipid peroxidation and inflammatory signaling. Some small trials suggest effects on glucose regulation, but the mechanism is not well established.

Updated 5/19/2026

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