AFA vs Chlorella—Which Is Better?
The Age of Microalgae Superfoods
Over the years our food system has changed. With that, our understanding of food and how it interacts with the amazing human body has changed. We have seen a variety of fad diets and foods come and go. We have also seen the rise of superfoods or foods that are rich in powerful nutrients. It’s not that these foods have morphed or changed, they’ve actually been around for years. Rather, we now have a better understanding of what they have to offer in terms of nutrition and nourishment.
Included in this growing list of superfoods are several species of ancient blue-green algae each with its own set of benefits. You’ve likely heard of a few including Chlorella, Spirulina and Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA), especially if you frequent a juice or smoothie shop that offers superfood boosters.
While all of these species of algae are beneficial and great, they all offer a unique nutrient profile and benefits. Let’s have a look at how two of the most popular, AFA and Chlorella line up. Interested in a Spirulina comparison? Check out this article.
Blue-Green Algae
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are one of the photosynthetic prokaryotes found in aquatic ecosystems. Blue-green algae are among the most primitive life forms on earth, estimated to have been around for over 3.5 billion years and have been consumed by humans for centuries. Blue-green algae are rich in biotic compounds including plant sterols, phycocyanins, carotenoids, and y-linolenic acids. Additionally, they are rich in essential amino acids, vitamins, calcium, Phosphorous, iron, and pigments such as β-carotene, xanthophyll, and chlorophyll.
Aphanizomenon flos-aquae
Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA) also known as organic Wild Microalgae when harvested and produced by New Earth is a type of blue-green algae. This wildcrafted strain of blue-green algae is a near-perfect superfood containing all 20 standard amino acids, making it a complete source of protein. It also contains 13 necessary vitamins, 23 trace elements and elements, essential fatty acids, antioxidant pigments phycocyanin and chlorophyll, and the mental energy activator phenylethylamine (PEA). Recent studies have also shown that AFA is an adequate and reliable source of vitamin B12 in humans.
Chlorella
Chlorella is a single-celled, freshwater algae and it is eukaryotic. Additionally, Chlorella is a blue-green algae or cyanobacteria. There are over 30 species of Chlorella. However, research shows that the two most utilized are Chorella Vulgaris and Chlorella pyrenoidosa. Chlorella is highly nutritious containing various vitamins and minerals including iron, protein, vitamin C, Omega 3 fats, Chlorophyll, and a wide range of antioxidants. However, quantities may differ among species. Chlorella has a rigid cell wall that humans can’t digest so chlorella cells have to be processed to break the cell wall before it can be used as a dietary supplement.
Side by Side
When it comes down to it, Chlorella is a nutritious superfood; however, AFA has a more complete nutrition composition with a balance of carbohydrates, fibers, proteins, sugars, and fats in regards to human consumption.
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At New Earth we are on a mission to positively impact the health of every body and soul we come in contact with. We specialize in producing third-party certified, organic whole food supplements that feature a rare, yet highly, nutritious superfood, Aphanizomenon flos-aquae (AFA). Also known as organic Wild Microalgae® , AFA is a unique type of blue-green algae that is available in many forms including algae tablets, algae pills, and algae powders all designed to help you on your journey to holistic wellness. Visit our website to learn more.
References
- Rani, K., Sandal, N., & Sahoo. (1970, January 01). A comprehensive review on chlorella-its composition , health benefits , market and regulatory scenario. Retrieved June 10, 2020, from https://www.semanticscholar.org/paper/A-comprehensive-review-on-chlorella-its-composition-Rani-Sandal/14e812bfa1c4ec97d52eed1805f58e83372448a0
- Tang, G., & Suter, P. (2011). Vitamin A, Nutrition, and Health Values of Algae: Spirulina, Chlorella, and Dunaliella. Journal of Pharmacy and Nutrition Sciences, 1(2). doi:10.6000/1927-5951.2011.01.02.04
- Wang, L., Min, M., Li, Y., Chen, P., Chen, Y., Liu, Y., . . . Ruan, R. (2009). Cultivation of Green Algae Chlorella sp. in Different Wastewaters from Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant. Applied Biochemistry and Biotechnology, 162(4), 1174-1186. doi:10.1007/s12010-009-8866-7
- Ku, C. S., Yang, Y., Park, Y., & Lee, J. (2013). Health Benefits of Blue-Green Algae: Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease and Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease. Journal of Medicinal Food, 16(2), 103-111. doi:10.1089/jmf.2012.2468
- Chlorella: Nutrition and possible health benefits. (n.d.). Retrieved June 10, 2020, from https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/320067
