Chlorella is a genus of single-celled green algae belonging to the phylum Chlorophyta. It is an ancient organism that has existed on Earth for billions of years. Chlorella is commercially cultivated and harvested for use as a nutritional supplement and as a food ingredient, particularly in East Asian countries. When cultivated, Chlorella undergoes a cell-wall breaking process to make its nutrients more bioavailable, as its natural cell wall is indigestible by humans.
Chlorella is often referred to as a "superfood" due to its dense nutritional profile. It is rich in protein, vitamins (including B vitamins, vitamin C, and vitamin E), minerals (such as iron, magnesium, and zinc), fiber, and antioxidants. It is also one of the few plant sources of vitamin B12, making it a valuable supplement for vegetarians and vegans. Various species exist, with Chlorella vulgaris and Chlorella pyrenoidosa being the most common types found in supplements.
Chlorella supplements are available in several forms, including tablets, capsules, powder, and liquid extracts. The powder form can be mixed into smoothies, juices, or food. Consumers often seek Chlorella for its purported detoxifying properties, immune support, energy enhancement, and overall well-being. (PubChem, NIH ODS)
Deep dive
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Known interactions
Category rule: glp1 × supplement
Note
GLP-1 medications slow stomach emptying, changing how/when oral supplements absorb; rapid weight loss raises the importance of protein and micronutrients.
Time oral supplements when nausea is lowest; prioritize protein and micronutrients; discuss with your provider.
Category rule: supplement × medication
Note
Some supplements change how the body processes medications (absorption, liver enzymes, or additive effects).
Specific pairs are checked against a licensed drug database and shown with their own severity. Always confirm with your provider or pharmacist.
Frequently asked
Sources referenced
["National Institutes of Health (NIH) Office of Dietary Supplements (ODS)", "MedlinePlus", "PubChem", "Cochrane Library (for specific randomized controlled trials cited in academic literature)", "DrugBank (for compound information and interactions)"]
Stackwise compiles summaries from publicly available scientific and regulatory references. Always verify important decisions with a licensed clinician.
Related compounds
Others in the supplement category or studied for the same goals.