21 Mar Chlorophyll: Benefits, Risks, and How to Add It to Your Diet

Chlorophyll is the natural pigment that gives plants their green color. But beyond its role in photosynthesis, it may also offer health benefits like skin healing, detoxification, and weight loss. While you can get chlorophyll from leafy greens, supplements may be a more effective way to absorb its benefits.

In this guide, we’ll explore chlorophyll’s potential benefits, risks, and the best ways to incorporate it into your diet.

Benefits of Chlorophyll Supplements

Many chlorophyll supplements actually contain chlorophyllin, a water-soluble form that the body may absorb more easily. Marketers often claim chlorophyll can:

• Boost the immune system
• Help eliminate toxins and fungus
• Detoxify the blood and intestines
• Neutralize bad odors
• Increase energy levels
• Support weight loss
• Aid in cancer prevention

But does science support these claims? While some studies suggest potential benefits, larger, high-quality researchis still needed. Here’s what we know so far.

1. Skin Healing and Anti-Aging

Early research suggests chlorophyllin may help with wound healing and acne.

• A 2015 pilot study found that applying a chlorophyllin gel for 3 weeks improved acne and large pores.
• Another 2015 study showed improvements in sun-damaged skin after 8 weeks of use.
• A 2018 study found that a gel containing chlorophyllin helped with skin aging and acne, though other ingredients were also present.

More studies are needed, but topical chlorophyll may promote clearer, healthier skin.

2. Blood Health and Oxygenation

Some claim liquid chlorophyll improves red blood cell quality, but research is mixed.

• A 2004 study found that wheatgrass (which is 70% chlorophyll) helped reduce the need for blood transfusions in thalassemia patients.
• However, researchers couldn’t confirm whether chlorophyll or wheatgrass’s high iron content caused this effect.

While chlorophyll is similar in structure to hemoglobin, there’s no strong evidence proving it directly boosts blood health.

3. Detoxification and Cancer Prevention

Chlorophyll has been studied for its potential cancer-fighting properties.

• A 2018 study found that oral chlorophyll reduced pancreatic tumor size in mice.
• A small human study suggested chlorophyll may help block aflatoxins, compounds linked to cancer.
• A 2023 review suggested chlorophyll could support colon, liver, pancreatic, and lung cancer prevention, though most studies have been on animals or in test tubes.

A diet rich in leafy greens is generally recommended for overall health and cancer prevention.

4. Weight Loss Support

Can chlorophyll help with losing weight? Some studies suggest it may play a role.

• A 2014 study found that women who took a chlorophyll-rich supplement daily lost more weight than those who didn’t.
• Another review suggested that chlorophyll may reduce fat absorption in cells.

More research is needed, but chlorophyll-rich foods could be beneficial as part of a healthy diet.

5. A Natural Deodorant

Chlorophyll has been marketed as an internal deodorant since the 1940s.

• A recent study found it helped reduce the odor in people with trimethylaminuria, a condition that causes a fishy smell.
• However, there’s little evidence that chlorophyll reduces bad breath or body odor in healthy individuals.

Are There Any Risks?

Natural chlorophyll and chlorophyllin are not considered toxic, but they may cause mild side effects, such as:

• Digestive issues (diarrhea, stomach cramps)
• Green, yellow, or black stool (not harmful but can be alarming)
• Skin irritation (when applied topically)

If you are pregnant, nursing, or taking medications, consult a doctor before using chlorophyll supplements.

How to Take Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is available in several forms, including:

• Liquid chlorophyll (can be mixed into water, juice, or smoothies)
• Tablets or capsules (convenient for daily use)
• Topical ointments (for skincare benefits)
• Powdered chlorophyll (great for adding to recipes)

Recommended Dosage

The standard daily dose of chlorophyllin supplements is 100–300 mg, divided into three doses. However, supplement quality varies, so talk to a doctor before starting.

Best Natural Sources of Chlorophyll

You can get chlorophyll naturally from green vegetables and herbs, such as:

• Spinach (24 mg per cup)
• Parsley (19 mg per cup)
• Wheatgrass
• Green beans
• Arugula
• Leeks
• Peas

For DIY liquid chlorophyll, blend parsley with water and strain it for a homemade chlorophyll-rich drink.

Final Thoughts

Chlorophyll offers promising benefits, from skin healing to detoxification. However, many claims still lack strong scientific backing. The best way to get chlorophyll is through a diet rich in leafy greens.

If you’re considering supplements, choose high-quality products and consult a doctor first.

Would you try chlorophyll supplements or stick to natural sources? Let us know!

Health Disclaimer:
This content is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with your doctor or a qualified healthcare provider before beginning any new exercise program, including Kegel exercises, especially if you are pregnant, recovering from surgery, or managing any medical condition. Use of this information is at your own risk.

WRITTEN & CURATED BY OZZIE SMALL