Spirulina & Chlorella

Have you seen all the beautiful green smoothies made with these algaes? The colour is so vibrant, so it must be good for you, right!?

Yup. They are super foods that are super good for you.

I get asked a lot what the difference is between the two most popular algaes, spirulina and chlorella. Even though they may look similar, they are actually quite different.

I’ve made a simple list of the benefits of each below, so you can figure out which is better for you:

Spirulina

• high in beta carotene - helps with eyesight, skin and immune system

• a complete protein, meaning it contains all essential amino acids (or those our bodies can’t make) to support muscle and tissue formation

• rich in vitamins: A, B, C, E, K - especially B12

• rich in minerals: potassium, chromium, calcium, copper, iron, magnesium

• contains lots of phytonutrients, which help to protect against cancer

• contains healthy fats (GLA or gamma linoleic acid) to help support skin, brain and reduce inflammation

• decreases allergies, infections and boosts the immune system

Chlorella

• high in caroteniods, including lutein and beta carotene, which support eye, skin and immune system

• rich in vitamins: B, C, D, E, K

• rich in minerals: phosphorus, zinc, magnesium, iron, calcium

• contains protein and healthy fats

• supports healthy hormones, blood pressure, cholesterol and helps to prevent cardiovascular disease

• supports detoxification and cleansing in the body (especially heavy metals and pesticides)

• supports healthy bacteria in gut