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Chlorella is a type of green freshwater algae that is often taken as a nutritional supplement. There are various forms of this algae, and each of those forms is processed differently. That processing determines whether it’s “whole cell” or “broken cell” chlorella. As one can guess from the name, broken cell chlorella refers to the type in which the cell walls have been broken. Below are the different types of broken cell chlorella:
Chlorella powder
Buyers can find both broken cell and whole cell chlorella in powdered form. The powdered form makes it easy to incorporate into one’s daily routine. The algae can be easily added to smoothies, juices, and other foods. Chlorella powder is generally more concentrated than other forms and therefore, one doesn’t need to consume as much.
Chlorella tablets
Chlorella supplements often come in the form of tablets or capsules. Tablets are compressed powder that may contain binders or fillers. Capsules are shells that are usually filled with the powdered chlorella inside. Both of them offer a convenient method for consumers to ensure they’re getting the right amount of chlorella.
Chlorella extracts
Chlorella can also be found in liquid extract form or as an oil-based extract. These extracts often have higher concentrations of specific nutrients like chlorophyll or protein. This makes them a more intense option compared to powders or tablets. Liquid extracts and oil-based extracts, on the other hand, might not be suitable for everyone because of their taste.
Organic broken cell chlorella
A lot of suppliers offer organic chlorella which is certified organic. This means the algae were grown without artificial pesticides or herbicides. Consuming organic chlorella ensures one is getting a product that is free from chemicals. Moreover, it’s better for the environment.
Algal material
The primary ingredient in broken cell chlorella is the chlorella algae itself. Chlorella is a nutrient-dense green algae that is packed with dietary fiber, protein, vitamins, and essential minerals. This makes it a popular superfood. The specific strain of algae used to produce chlorella vary depending on the manufacturer. This consequently affects the nutritional profile of the final product. However, most of them make use of the Chlorella pyrenoidosa strain.
Hydration and cultivation
Chlorella is a freshwater algae that is grown in controlled water ponds. Maintaining the right temperature, pH level, and light exposure is essential in growing healthy chlorella. Suppliers use large-scale photobioreactors for more efficient and controlled production of the algae.
Harvesting
Once the chlorella has harvested, it’s then separated from the water through centrifugation. This concentrates the algae and reduces the amount of water content in the mixture. After that, the concentrated chlorella is dried and ground into a powder. In some cases, the algae may undergo further processing to isolate specific nutrients.
Cell wall breakdown
Chlorella's cell walls are made up of tough polysaccharides. These make it difficult for the body to absorb all the nutrients inside. To enhance nutrient absorption, the cell walls are broken using various methods like mechanical, chemical, or enzymatic methods. The goal is to make the nutrients more bioavailable. Broken cell chlorella is then more easily absorbed in the body compared to whole cell chlorella.
Drying and powdering
After cell wall breaking, the chlorella is dried to remove excess moisture. This drying process allows the algae to be shelf-stable and easier to transport. Users can find both whole cell and broken cell chlorella as dietary supplements in varying forms such as powders, tablets, capsules, and liquid.
Detoxification
Chlorella is well-known for its detoxification properties. It has the ability to bind to heavy metals such as lead and mercury and other harmful chemicals like PCBs. This makes it an effective detoxing agent as it helps the body eliminate these toxins. Additionally, chlorella is rich in chlorophyll, which also helps detoxify the body by purifying the liver and blood.
Enhanced immune function
Chlorella contains several immune-boosting compounds. These include beta-glucans, which are known to enhance the body’s natural defense mechanisms. By stimulating the immune system, chlorella helps the body better ward off infections and diseases. This makes it particularly beneficial for individuals with weakened immune systems.
Rich in antioxidants
Chlorella is packed with antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E. These help combat oxidative stress in the body. Oxidative stress is caused by free radicals and is associated with chronic diseases and aging. The antioxidants in chlorella neutralize free radicals. This helps protect cells from damage, promoting overall health and aging healthily.
Increased energy levels
Chlorella is highly nutritious and contains a rich combination of proteins, vitamins, and minerals. These provide essential nutrients and energy to the body and help in sustaining good energy levels throughout the day. Additionally, the high chlorophyll content in chlorella improves oxygen transport in the body, further boosting energy levels.
Supports weight management
Chlorella can aid in weight management and this is primarily due to its high protein and low-calorie content. The protein keeps one feeling full and reduces constant cravings. It also helps support muscle maintenance. Moreover, chlorella may help increase metabolic rate, allowing the body to burn calories more efficiently.
Storage conditions
Users need to keep broken cell chlorella in a cool, dry, and dark place. This helps preserve its nutritional content and prevents it from going bad. Avoiding direct sunlight and excessive heat is key. Consider refrigeration for liquid forms of chlorella to maintain potency and freshness.
Expiration dates
Chlorella supplements typically come with expiration dates. Consumers should be keen on those dates and ensure they’re not using products that are past said dates. Expired supplements may lose their efficacy and could potentially be harmful.
Hygiene practices
To prevent contamination, users should always wash their hands before handling chlorella supplements, especially if they’re using powdered forms. This minimizes the risk of bacteria or other contaminants getting into the product and affecting one’s health.
Monitoring quality
Changes in color, smell, or texture may indicate that the chlorella has gone bad. Users should keep a keen eye out for such changes and avoid consuming products that have either smell or look funky. When in doubt, it’s best to discard the product or check with the manufacturer’s guidelines.
Environmental factors
Chlorella is sensitive to environmental factors like humidity and temperature. Exposure to these elements can degrade its nutritional value. Avoid moisture and humidity to maintain chlorella’s potency. Those are the primary culprits for the growth of mold or bacteria in the product.
Transportation considerations
Chlorella that is being transported should be kept in airtight containers to prevent exposure to air and humidity. For long-distance transportation, especially in hot weather, use insulated packaging to maintain a stable temperature and prevent degradation of the product.
Whole cell chlorella has an unbroken cell wall while broken cell chlorella has a broken cell wall. The process of breaking the cell wall makes broken cell chlorella more easily absorbed by the body. Therefore, it has higher nutritional value and bioavailability compared to its counterpart.
Manufacturers break the cell walls using different methods. The most common are mechanical, chemical, and ultrasonic methods. Mechanical methods, such as milling or grinding, involve applying physical force to the chlorella cells. This breaks them apart. Chemical methods use acidic or alkaline solutions to dissolve the cell wall materials. Ultrasonic methods employ high-frequency sound waves to disrupt cell walls.
Both of them have similar nutritional profiles but are slightly different in terms of nutrient absorption. Because of the broken cell wall, broken cell chlorella is more bioavailable. This means the body can more easily absorb the vitamins, minerals, and proteins present in broken cell chlorella compared to whole cell chlorella.
The typical dosage for powdered broken cell chlorella is between one and five grams per day. For tablets or capsules, it’s usually one to five milligrams. However, it’s important to note that optimal dosage may vary depending on the individual’s health goals and specific product concentrations. Before adding chlorella to one’s routine, it’s recommended to consult a healthcare professional first.
Broken cell chlorella is generally safe for most individuals. However, some people experience mild side effects like nausea, bloating, or diarrhea. It can also cause green stool. It’s also worth noting that chlorella can interact with certain medications. Such medications are for blood thinners, diabetes, and immune system suppression. This is because of its potential effects on blood pressure, blood sugar levels, and immune response. It’s best to consult a doctor before starting the supplement.
