It is an attractive potential food source because it is high in protein and other essential nutrients; when dried, it is about 45% protein, 20% fat, 20% carbohydrate, 5% fibre, and 10% minerals and vitamins. Mass-production methods are now being used to cultivate it in large artificial circular ponds. Chlorella is a complete protein source.[dubious – discuss] It is also packed with calories, fat, and vitamins.[3]
When first harvested, Chlorella was suggested as a "dirt-cheap" protein supplement to the human diet. Advocates sometimes focus on other supposed health benefits of the algae, such as claims of weight control, cancer prevention, and immune system support.[3]
Under certain growing conditions, Chlorella yields oils high in polyunsaturated fats—Chlorella minutissima has yielded EPA at 39.9% of total lipids.[4]
Several studies suggest Chlorella supplementation has a positive effect on the reduction of dioxin levels in breast milk and it may also have beneficial effects on nursing infants by increasing the IgA levels in breast milk.[5]

Claims of health and healing effects

Like blue-green algae, clinical studies on Chlorella suggest effects including polychlorinated dibenzodioxins detoxification in humans[7] and other animals,[8] healing from radiation exposure in animals[9] and the ability to reduce high blood pressure, lower serum cholesterol levels, accelerate wound healing, and enhance immune functions in humans.[10]
Chlorella has been found to have anti-tumor properties when fed to mice.[11][12][13] Another study found enhanced vascular function in hypertensive rats given oral doses of chlorella.[14] However, the use of Chlorella for healing effects has received criticism.[6]