Matcha’s counterpart in the Charge shot, chlorella, is a type of algae that provides numerous
nutrients for the body. It contains vitamin B-12, vitamin A, riboflavin, iron, magnesium, and
zinc. Various studies have been carried out to determine the health benefits that arise from
the properties found in chlorella.
Vitamin B-12 and iron found in chlorella have been studied to observe the effects on people
with anaemia and hypertensive disorders. A Japanese study with pregnant women as
participants observed that taking chlorella supplements from early in their pregnancy till the
third trimester, significantly reduced the risk of anaemia, proteinuria, and hypertension that
often occurs in pregnant women (Eslick et al., 2009).
Chlorella has also been studied in regard to immunity-strengthening abilities. A clinical trial
carried out over 28 days with participants aged 50-55 years old found that daily chlorella
supplements during this period resulted in a significant increase in antibody response
(Bernstein et al., 2012).
Omega-3 fatty acids are found in chlorella and have been linked to healthy ageing due to
their natural anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have discovered that these acids work to
reduce the production of molecules and substances that cause inflammation (Calder, 2006).
Studies have revealed a link between omega-3 and cognitive improvement, with the nutrient
substantially reducing the risks of cognitive decline when consumed regularly throughout life
(Johnson & Schaefer, 2006).
Magnesium is also an important component found in chlorella as magnesium deficiency is
common due to average diets not including as much magnesium as necessary for optimum
health. Magnesium provides a prime energy source, with studies exhibiting its effectiveness
in positively impacting exercise performance. In a trial, participants were observed over a 4-
week period of receiving magnesium supplements, with results showing the improvement in
their exercise performance (Cinar et al., 2006). A significant process that results in increased
exercise performance is magnesium’s ability to reduce the accumulation of lactate in blood,
thereby reducing muscle fatigue (Cheng et al., 2010).