Cyanobacteria are a group of microorganisms related to bacteria that are capable of photosynthesis. Although not many people are aware of this, they contain several nutrients required by the body. They are also called algae and can be found in can be found on land, in lakes, rivers, ponds, and in estuaries and marine water. Spirulina has antioxidant effects. It is a filamentous cyanobacterium that forms tangled masses in warm alkaline lakes and can be consumed by humans and animals. It is rich in vitamins E, C, and B6 and boosts the production of white blood cells and antibodies.
Chlorella, also called seaweed, is an algae-based supplement rich in proteins, iron, vitamin B, and various antioxidants. Chlorella possesses an indigestible hard cell wall; therefore, it must be taken in the form of a supplement, capsule, powder, tablet, or extract. They are both rich in important nutrients required by the body. You can find blue-green algae, like spirulina and Chlorella, sold under different brand names as supplements.
Both Chlorella and spirulina have multiple health benefits in their own right, but today, we discuss which of the two supplies has more value for a consumer. Spirulina contains proteins, vitamins B1, B2 (riboflavin), B3, iron, and Copper. In addition, it contains antioxidants, good amounts of potassium, magnesium, and manganese, and little amounts of every other essential nutrient. The following are some health benefits of consuming spirulina:
- Spirulina is a great source of antioxidants, which can guard you against oxidative damage.
- It contains phycocyanin which gives spirulina its blue-green color. Phycocyanin reduces inflammation in the body, blocks tumor growth, and kills cancer cells.
- Protein in spirulina can reduce the body’s absorption of cholesterol, lowering cholesterol levels and reducing the risk of heart
- Spirulina contains vitamins and minerals essential for maintaining a healthy immune system
- It is rich in zeaxanthin, a plant pigment that may reduce the risk of cataracts and age-related vision loss.
Chlorella has been explored as an alternative food source since the 1950s. It is rich in docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), vitamin A, riboflavin, iron, and zinc. Health benefits of consuming Chlorella include;
- Chlorella has various compounds that work as antioxidants and fight several chronic illnesses. These compounds include such as vitamin c, lycopene, beta-carotene, and chlorophyll.
- The intake of Chlorella is beneficial to the improvement of type 2 diabetes by decreasing glucagon concentration • Chlorella has been found to weaken the heavy metal toxicity of the kidneys, liver, and brain.
- It helps to reduce cramps, gas, bloating, and diarrhea.
- It helps to reduce aches and pains
While Chlorella contains more calories, omega-3 fatty acids, Riboflavin, Magnesium, iron, and Zinc, spirulina contains a high amount of Thiamine, iron, and Copper but is lower in calories and fat. They both have similar protein, carbohydrate, and fat compositions, but their main difference is in their calorie, vitamin, and mineral content. Both kinds of algae are rich in important nutrients, but Chlorella contains more vitamin A, omega-3 fatty acids, riboflavin, zinc, magnesium, and iron. Although both kinds of algae supplements provide immense value for the consumer, the high amount of antioxidants, polyunsaturated fats, and other vitamins contained in Chlorella makes it more nutritional when compared to spirulina.
Chlorella should be taken at least one hour before or after taking any other types of medication. Chlorella can be taken in two or three doses daily. Spirulina powder can be stirred into a glass filled with water or mixed into a smoothie.
Note: Before using these supplements, make sure to check with a medical expert. People who are allergic to seafood, rockweed, and other sea vegetables should avoid taking supplements.
