A nutrient-dense green algae taken as a daily supplement. Human evidence is strongest, though modest, for small drops in total and "bad" cholesterol and better body composition in overweight people; signals for liver enzymes, blood pressure, and antioxidants are weaker. Its marketed heavy-metal "detox" use has little direct human support. Benefits fade when intake stops. (Full Review)
| Marker | Target | Why |
|---|---|---|
| LDL cholesterol | < 100 mg/dL (lower if high cardiovascular risk) | Primary marker chlorella may modestly lower |
| Total cholesterol | < 180 mg/dL | Secondary lipid target showing chlorella's main effect |
| Triglycerides | < 90 mg/dL | Context for overall lipid response (chlorella effect is weak here) |
| Fasting blood glucose | 75–90 mg/dL | Tracks possible glucose benefit in metabolic populations |
| ALT and AST | < 25 U/L (men), < 20 U/L (women) | Liver enzymes chlorella may lower, especially in fatty liver |
| Blood pressure | < 120/80 mmHg | Tracks the inconsistent blood-pressure effect |
| Ferritin / iron studies | 50–150 ng/mL ferritin | Chlorella contributes iron; relevant for deficiency or overload |
| INR (if on warfarin) | Per individual therapeutic target | Detects vitamin K interaction destabilizing anticoagulation |
Cadence: Baseline, then at roughly 8–12 weeks, and thereafter every 6–12 months if use continues; INR within 1–2 weeks of starting for those on warfarin.