What Are The Benefits Of Chlorophyll?

Chlorophyll is the component in leaves that give them their bright green color. Also found in green foods, chlorophyll has been studied for decades as a positive benefit in the diets of those who ingest it. While eating more greens is always recommended for a healthy lifestyle, some are turning toward chlorophyll supplements as a way to get the perceived benefit of the plant component.

The Research Behind Chlorophyll

There have been many studies that have suggested that chlorophyll is a great supplement to one’s diet. While more research needs to be done to confirm that it is a beneficial ingredient, there hasn’t been any studies to suggest its wrong or dangerous.

Three separate studies, between 2005 and 2015, have shown that chlorophyll can reduce the size of cancer tumors or slow its growth when given to mice.

Studies done from 1940 through 2008 show that chlorophyll reduces body odors and can speed up the healing of wounds. Some doctors continue to prescribe chlorophyll for wound therapy.

While studies have contradicted the benefit of all body odor, recent studies have shown that when given to the elderly, chlorophyll helps lower body odor in nursing homes.

Some natural mouthwashes and deodorants have chlorophyll as an odor-fighting component.

Hematologists have looked into the benefits of the green matter when used in their patients. Chlorophyll acts similar to hemoglobin by carrying oxygen. Currently, wheatgrass juice is being looked at as a potential benefit for hemoglobin deficiency disorders. Anemia is one medical issue where wheatgrass therapies looks promising.

Foods Rich in Chlorophyll

There are many food sources rich with Chlorophyll. Some of these foods are:

mustard greens
spinach
collard greens
alfalfa
chlorella
spirulina
broccoli, including the stalk
parsley
asparagus
green cabbage
green beans and peas
matcha tea

How Can You Find Chlorophyll Supplements?

If you can only eat so many green vegetables, perhaps taking a chlorophyll supplement may be something you want to try.

Chlorophyll supplements are available in pills, capsules, or drops. They are available in different strengths, like most supplements, and can be found in stores or online.

Most chlorophyll supplements contain chlorophyllin, which is a derivative of chlorophyll. This water-soluble component is often absorbed by the body better than natural chlorophyll, which helps it to work more effectively. Some studies have found that chlorophyllin is better at treating some illness than others, where straight chlorophyll is preferred at treating other diseases. Each of these findings was mostly studied in mice.

Many multivitamins or superfood vitamins already have chlorophyll in them. While it does not seem likely that you can take too much chlorophyll or chlorophyllin, there’s been no studies showing that taking extra of the green derivative is beneficial or necessary.

How Do You Take Chlorophyll Supplements?

If you are purchase capsules, they are typically taken up to three times a day. Doses range from 100 to 300 milligrams.

The liquid version is normally added to a drink of your choice, or taken straight, although the taste may not be the most pleasant. Most liquid chlorophyll supplements are around 5 milliliters or one teaspoon.

As with all supplements, it is suggested to talk with your doctor before starting them. This is especially true if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Allergies are rare, although if you are allergic to any green foods, you may way to discuss taking chlorophyll with your physician before starting the supplement.

In our health-conscious world, eating organic greens is always on the list of things to do. Additionally, taking superfood supplements that include things like chlorophyll are only seen to be beneficial to our bodies. While there is still much to be learned about the benefits of these supplements, if you start to feel better after beginning a supplement, there is no harm in continuing to take it.