Experts say it may also come with larger health benefits.

Does Chlorella Have Health Benefits?

How Do Chlorella and Spirulina Compare?

Chlorella supplements

Marina Moskalyuk / Getty Images

Is Chlorella Safe?

“Heavy metals are a big concern.

It depends on where it is grown.

Most people shouldn’t worry too much if they only consume chlorella in moderate amounts.

Should You Try Chlorella?

Chlorella provides a variety of nutrients like omega-3, protein, and calcium.

Keep experimenting until you find something that works for you, she added.

However, it can contain heavy metals and cause an allergic reaction and GI symptoms.

It’s best to talk with your doctor before adding it to your wellness routine.

Lorenzo K, Santocildes G, Torrella JR, et al.Bioactivity of macronutrients from chlorella in physical exercise.Nutrients.

2023;15(9):2168. doi:10.3390/nu15092168

National Cancer Institute.Spirulina-based dietary supplement.

2020;12(9):2524. doi:10.3390/nu12092524

Mount Sinai.Spirulina.

MedlinePlus.LDL: The “bad” cholesterol.

2022;66:102822. doi:10.1016/j.ctim.2022.102822

Chlorella.In: Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed).

National Institute of Child Health and Human Development; 2006.

U.S. Food and Drug Administration.Questions and answers on dietary supplements.

2024;89(12):8231-8247. doi:10.1111/1750-3841.17529