Chlorella
The single-celled algae that binds mercury better than almost anything else. Japan has used it since the 1960s. Now essential in every serious heavy metal protocol.
Quick Facts
Also Called
Chlorella vulgaris, Chlorella pyrenoidosa
Tradition
Japanese (post-WWII superfood)
Primary Use
Mercury binding, heavy metal detox, nutrition
Form
Broken cell wall tablets, powder
What It Is
Chlorella is a single-celled freshwater green algae, one of the oldest life forms on Earth (2 billion years). It contains more chlorophyll than any other plant — hence the name (chlor = green).
Japan embraced chlorella as a superfood after WWII for nutrition and detox. Research has since shown its unique ability to bind heavy metals, especially mercury, in the gut and possibly in tissues. The key: the cell wall must be "broken" for humans to digest it.
How It Works
- →Metal binding: Chlorella's cell wall contains compounds that bind mercury, lead, cadmium, and arsenic
- →Gut trapping: Catches metals excreted in bile before they're reabsorbed (interrupts enterohepatic circulation)
- →CGF (Chlorella Growth Factor): Nucleotide-peptide complex that may support cellular repair during detox
- →Nutritional support: 60% protein, B12, iron, omega-3s — nourishes while it detoxes
Traditional Use
Japan:Embraced chlorella in the 1960s as a "national health food." Millions take it daily. Originally for nutrition in post-war food shortages, then recognized for detox properties.
Minamata disease: After mercury poisoning disasters in Japan, chlorella became part of treatment protocols. Research showed it could reduce mercury body burden.
Dental mercury: Functional dentists often recommend chlorella before and after amalgam removal to bind released mercury.
Dosing Protocol
Maintenance
3-5g daily (15-25 tablets typically). With meals. Start with 1g and increase gradually.
Active Detox
10-20g daily during intensive protocols. Some practitioners use even higher doses under supervision.
Key Requirement
MUST be broken cell wall. Humans cannot digest the intact cell wall — you'll excrete it unabsorbed.
Contraindications
- • Blood thinners (warfarin) — chlorella is high in vitamin K
- • Immunosuppressants — chlorella may stimulate immune function
- • Iodine sensitivity — some chlorella products contain iodine
- • Start slow — can cause digestive upset, gas, or green stools initially
Best Products
Sun Chlorella
Japanese brand, patented DYNO-Mill process, the original broken cell wall chlorella
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