Iron deficiency – what to do and why Chlorella is a smart choice

Why is iron so important?

Iron is an essential trace element that the body needs for numerous functions. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has published scientifically confirmed health claims showing how iron works in the body:

• contributes to normal red blood cell and hemoglobin formation;
• contributes to normal oxygen transport in the body;
• contributes to normal energy metabolism;
• contributes to the reduction of tiredness and fatigue;
• contributes to normal cognitive function;
• contributes to the normal function of the immune system;
• has a role in cell division.

Symptoms of iron deficiency

It is the most common deficiency worldwide – according to the WHO, around 30% of the world's population is affected. In Germany, the rate is about 58% for women and 14% for men. Symptoms include:

• Fatigue, difficulty concentrating
• Pale skin, hair loss
• Reduced performance

Iron deficiency is particularly common in women of childbearing age, pregnant women, breastfeeding women, vegans, and athletes.

What helps quickly with iron deficiency?

First, a blood test is important (ferritin, hemoglobin). If a deficiency is confirmed, targeted iron supplements help, ideally supplemented by a diet with iron-rich foods.

Classic iron supplements often contain high doses of iron in the form of iron(II) or iron(III) salts. Many of these products are high-dose iron (80–100 mg) and available without a prescription. However, high doses do not automatically mean better effects – because:

• Iron absorption is regulated by the body
• Frequent side effects: constipation, nausea, abdominal pain

Natural iron supplements: Chlorella as a plant-based iron source
For those who prefer not to use classic iron pills or are looking for a natural iron supplement, chlorella might be of interest. Chlorella is a nutrient-rich freshwater algae that naturally contains a lot of iron. This property can be exploited: under certain cultivation conditions, chlorella accumulates iron in its cells – almost like a plant-based "microcapsule" for iron. An innovative product based on this approach is Algomed® Chlorella Iron , where the microalgae are grown to have a standardized high iron content.

Advantages of Chlorella as an iron supplement:

• Purely plant-based and natural: Chlorella provides iron in its natural form, embedded in the algal biomass, without chemical additives.
• Good bioavailability: Studies show that chlorella has remarkably high iron bioavailability – about 30% of the iron it contains can be absorbed in simulated digestion tests. This is also because the iron in chlorella is predominantly organically bound, namely to proteins. Analyses found that most of the iron in chlorella is coupled to high-molecular protein complexes. This form resembles ferritin (storage iron) in plants and animals and is efficiently utilized by the body.
• High tolerability: Since it is a natural whole food product, no side effects such as gastrointestinal complaints are known. Iron release is gentle. Especially compared to high-dose synthetic iron supplements, chlorella is considered very well tolerated – problems such as constipation or nausea practically do not occur here (also because the dosage is in the moderate range).
• Controlled cultivation in Germany: Algomed® Chlorella Iron is 100% naturally cultivated in Germany. Special cultivation methods ensure a guaranteed iron content. Production is subject to strict quality controls, free of pesticides or heavy metals.
• Effective dosage: Just one recommended daily portion of this algal supplement covers about 38% of an adult's daily iron requirement. This moderate amount is based on European Nutrient Reference Values (NRV) and is deliberately chosen to support the body without overwhelming it. Additional iron intake through other foods is taken into account.

So, iron deficiency is widespread, but manageable with the right approach. First, a doctor's diagnosis is important. Then, a combination of dietary changes and, if necessary, supplementation can be implemented. Conventional iron supplements work quickly, but are often high-dose and not always optimally tolerated. A natural alternative is iron supply through nutrient-rich microalgae like chlorella, which provides iron in a bioavailable, organic form. Products like Algomed® Chlorella Iron enable the body to be supplied with plant-based iron – effectively, well tolerated, and naturally. This way, an iron deficiency can be remedied without having to resort to synthetic supplements. At every step, it is important to listen to your body, seek professional advice, and patiently replenish stores – then vitality and performance will soon return.