Have you ever heard about Chlorella and Spirulina? Yes, both of them are green algae that often used in supplements. They gained popularity thanks to the nutrition and health benefits contained in them. Both are known to be good for heart health and can help maintain blood sugar levels. Then,  which one is better?

Although they basically have the same benefits, the two algae are different, especially in the nutrition department. Chlorella is known to have a higher amount of calories and fat compared to Spirulina. However, that doesn't make Chlorella worse. Thanks to its calorie content, there are more nutrients contained in them. Chlorella is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, provitamin A, riboflavin, magnesium, zinc and iron. Meanwhile, Spirulina is known to contain slightly more protein than Chlorella.

Basically, both algae are rich in unsaturated fats, especially omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which are good for maintaining brain function and cell growth. In addition, omega-3 fatty acids are also associated with several health benefits, including treating inflammation, improving bone health, and reducing the risk of heart disease and some types of cancer. Studies showed that Chlorella has more omega-3 fatty acids, while Spirulina has more omega-6 fatty acids.

Not only that, they are also known to be rich in antioxidants that can help protect you from free radicals that can damage cells and body tissues. Both are also able to increase the amount of vitamins C and E in the body, both antioxidants. The results of the study also showed that Chlorella and Spirulina could help maintain blood sugar levels by increasing insulin sensitivity. Finally, both are known to help reduce levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol in the body and blood pressure.

Overall, both Chlorella and Spirulina both have good benefits for health. However, Chlorella is slightly superior in nutritional content compared to Spirulina.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Google Search Images

Source:

• Healthline - What's the Difference Between Chlorella and Spirulina? (2020). https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/chlorella-spirulina, 16 July 2020.