Chlorophyll Health Benefits

Have you heard of chlorophyll? It’s the chemical compound that makes plants green and helps them convert sunlight into energy. Fat-soluble and full of healthy antioxidants, chlorophyll also has a number of health benefits when consumed.

What is Chlorophyll?

Chlorophyll is a green pigment present in plants, algae, and some bacteria. Chlorophyll is the chemical responsible for photosynthesis, the process which converts sunlight into usable energy. As a rule of thumb, the greener the plant, the more chlorophyll it contains. 

When we consume plants, we also consume chlorophyll. A growing number of studies indicate that this essential chemical compound may have important health benefits including anti-cancer antioxidant, and anti-inflammatory properties. 

Plants contain two kinds of chlorophyll: chlorophyll a and chlorophyll b. Both varieties are fat-soluble, meaning the body requires fats to properly absorb and metabolize them. Healthy food sources of chlorophyll include: wheatgrass, kale, spinach, lettuce, and algae.

While some chlorophyll supplements use whole food sources of the compound, others use a synthetic alternative called chlorophyllin. Chlorophyllin is derived from chlorophyll, and has many of the same health benefits. Unlike chlorophyll, however, chlorophyllin is water-soluble, meaning it is easier to metabolize. However, it also leaves the body faster than fat-soluble chlorophyll. 

Health Benefits of Chlorophyll Supplements 

A growing body of evidence demonstrates that chlorophyll has a number of important health benefits and can be a great addition to a regular supplement stack. Since only 1 in 10 adults get the recommended amount of fresh fruits and vegetables in their diet, chlorophyll supplements (especially the ones derived from whole foods) can help supply additional nutrition.   

Cancer Prevention

In the last few decades, a number of scientific studies have indicated that chlorophyll and water-soluble chlorophyllin have an anticarcinogenic (or anti-cancer) effect. While not a replacement for traditional medical treatments such as chemotherapy and radiation, chlorophyll can help prevent and slow the progression of cancer in the body. 

A 2023 review found that chlorophyll may help with certain types of cancer including colon, liver, pancreatic, and lung cancer. Similarly, while scientists are still studying the exact metabolic mechanisms, it’s widely believed that chlorophyll prevents the uptake of carcinogens and promotes antioxidant activity which can help induce cell death in cancerous cells.   

Antioxidant Activity

One of the most potent impacts of chlorophyll and chlorophyllin are their antioxidant properties. Oxidative stress impacts the body in multiple ways. From breaking down cell walls to damaging tissue, free radical damage and oxidative stress can lead to harm, and even, over time, result in chronic illness. 

Studies demonstrate that both chlorophyll and chlorophyllin have significant antioxidant activity, although chlorophyllin does have a slightly greater benefit due to its molecular structure. 

Skin health

Chlorophyll gel applied topically can help clear acne, shrink pores, heal sun-damage and even help wounds heal faster. The effects of oral chlorophyll supplements on skin health have not been studied in-depth, however, antioxidant activity has been known to boost skin health and protect against damage and aging. 

Side Effects of Chlorophyll Supplements

At this time, naturally-occuring chlorophyll has no known side effects. Synthetic chlorophyllin supplements, however, has been known to cause the following: 

–Diarrhea

–Discoloration of urine and/or feces

–Discoloration of the tongue

–Mild burning or itching when applied directly to a wound

Chlorophyllin supplements are not recommended for women who are pregnant or nursing. As with any supplement or medication, please check with a healthcare provider to see if chlorophyll and chlorophyllin are right for you.