January 21, 2022
Is Chlorophyll Good For You?
Have you hopped on the new trend? Green isn’t just for St. Patrick’s Day! Now it’s all about the plants.
OK, plants aren’t a new trend. But the trend has been extracting ingredients from the plants and creating supplements. Specifically, chlorophyll supplements. This has been drawing some renewed attention lately.
A quick search for #chlorophyll on TikTok will generate thousands of videos showing influencers and wellness lovers trying out this natural ingredient.
So…drink chlorophyll water?? Let’s take a look at what we’re talking about here.
What is chlorophyll?
Think back to your middle school biology days. Do you remember learning about chlorophyll? (We couldn’t remember that far back, so we’ll tell you what we found out!)
Chlorophyll is present most plants, but it has a higher concentration in green plants and vegetables. It also contributes to photosynthesis – the process of plants converting sunlight into energy.
When chlorophyll absorbs the sun’s light rays, it reflects the green waves of white light which then gives plants their green color. When we eat green plants and vegetables, we get doses of chlorophyll in our diet.
There are two basic types of chlorophyll – types A and B – both of which are fat soluble. This means healthy fats help the body to absorb and use the chlorophyll you take in through the foods you eat.
According to WebMD, research hasn’t been able to prove how much fat we should eat to help the body absorb chlorophyll. But generally, at least small amounts of healthy fats are good. Try foods like avocados, olive oil, nuts and seeds.
What are the benefits of chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll has been popular as a supplement for a while. People have been extracting chlorophyll from plants and using it in a tablet or liquid form. This cuts out the plant source completely.
And why are people using it? Chlorophyll is back on top of the wellness trends list because it seems to promote healthy weight, digestion and clearer skin.
Chlorophyll has antioxidant properties and can help provide a health boost. There have been several potential health benefits identified with consuming chlorophyll. Studies show it can aid in cancer prevention and also provide anti-aging benefits.
And users have claimed some benefits such as:
· Acne treatment
· Weight loss
· Boosting energy
· Help with healing wounds
· A healthy gut and digestive system
· Controlling body odor
Are there negative side effects to taking a chlorophyll supplement?
The verdict is out on this one. But most studies state there are no major negative health impacts from consuming chlorophyll as a supplement.
WebMD lists potential health risks of chlorophyll as:
· Occasional diarrhea
· Discoloration of the urine or feces
· Discoloration of the tongue
· Mild burning or itching when applied directly to a wound
It seems like experts agree that we need more research to understand the benefits and risks of chlorophyll supplements. But plenty of people report positive experiences with these supplements. Enough positive experiences to recommend it to others.
It also appears more people are choosing liquid chlorophyll over tablet form. And it’s easy… mix it with water, a little True Lemon, and drink up!
(Disclaimer: always check with your doctor before starting any new supplement routine.)
Should I eat or drink my chlorophyll?
If you’re still reading here, you may be starting to wonder if you should jump on the green plant supplement train.
Well, from the online videos and reviews, it looks like plenty of people are getting great results! Whether you drink or eat your chlorophyll as a supplement, it seems to be benefitting some people.
There isn't a lot of research on the benefits. But existing research doesn't show any serious negative side effects. When you take chlorophyll as a supplement, you get a more concentrated dose of the product. More so than consuming it from eating plants and vegetables.
In summary, it could be worth trying out if it sounds like something that could give you a health boost! Of course, the benefits will definitely vary from one person to the next. (So don’t assume it will be the answer to all your problems. But see if it helps!)
Here’s something else to remember. Chlorophyll occurs in plants and vegetables you hopefully already consume. And we agree with the experts on one thing – you’ll get chlorophyll from eating plants and vegetables. But it will also provide plenty of other great vitamins and nutrients your body needs. And don’t forget all that good fiber!
What veggies contain chlorophyll?
But what should you eat to get a healthy dose of chlorophyll?? Simple answer - anything green that grows from the ground! Including, but not limited to:
· Zucchini
· Broccoli
· Cabbage
· Asparagus
· Matcha green tea
· Green beans and peas
· Kale, spinach and other leafy greens
Here’s something else that’s important to keep in mind… eat the rainbow! Green plants and veggies aren’t the only ones with all those wonderful healthy vibes. All fruit and veggies have different varieties of nutrients your body needs. When it comes to fresh foods, getting a good color variety in your diet will ensure your body has everything it needs to keep you healthy.
So generally speaking, is chlorophyll good for you? The answer is yes! There are definitely benefits from chlorophyll as well as vitamins and nutrients found in other fruits and veggies.
The bottom line here – whether you decide on a chlorophyll supplement or not, it’s still important to eat fresh fruit and vegetables. Along with drinking more water and staying active, a well-rounded diet will promote all the great health benefits you may be looking for.
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