Its name means "little green" and it is an autotrophic organism making its food from sunlight, but should chlorella side effects be a cause for concern? Most people would probably not relish the idea of eating pond algae, yet this nutritional super food is little different from the high protein food Quorn. In addition, chlorella tablets are available, making the nutritional supplement far easier to swallow. It also comes as a liquid and is present in many health drinks and supplements, as well as making its appearance in smoothies, shakes and many health store foods.
What is Chlorella?
Chlorella is a variety of single-celled algae that grows in fresh water, using photosynthesis to make its own food from carbon dioxide and sunlight. It is quite common: in fact it can become a nuisance in ornamental ponds and aquaria when chlorella side effects turn the water green and opaque. As the world population began to expand after World War II some scientists saw this microorganism, which is rich in proteins, fats and minerals, as a new hope for food production. After all, what is chlorella if not an inexpensive and easy to grow food source? Now it is marketed for its claimed health benefits, which include lowering high blood pressure and cholesterol, detoxification from metals, healing of various body functions and even what is chlorella producers' biggest boast: that it can combat cancer.
The Facts about the Side Effects of Chlorella
Users taking this super food have reported some unpleasant side effects of chlorella, including headaches, nausea, bloating and gas, diarrhea and stomach cramps, and often fatigue and light-headedness. These symptoms may go away by themselves after a short time, and are likely to be caused by detoxification - just like the symptoms you may experience on a fast or detox diet. These side effects of chlorella are also likely to be very mild: if they are not you should consult a physician. They are also likely to be very short lived, and to fade away as your body becomes accustomed to having chlorella in its system. One of the strangest chlorella side effects is that the user may find his bowel movements may be tinted green from the color of the algae!
Further Chlorella Side Effects
The side effects of chlorella on pregnant women and nursing mothers have not yet been tested, but as chlorella is a rich source of iodine, it may have benefits for those who are deficient in the thyroid hormones. This also means chlorella side effects could be serious for anyone who is allergic to iodine.
Some chlorella side effects could be due to poorly produced tablets with traces of metals or other contaminants, so like all supplements it should be bought from a reputable source. As with any nutritional supplement, all available information should be gathered and any possible chlorella side effects balanced against the benefits to be obtained.