Chlorophyll is the plant pigment that absorbs sunlight in the energy-creating process of photosynthesis. Research shows that chlorophyll benefits more than just plants. When it comes to human health, chlorophyll benefits include the ability to help the liver detox, speed wound healing, improve digestion, protect the skin, and even help fight cancer.
Much like chlorella, this powerful plant pigment has anti-carcinogenic effects that protect DNA from damage and play an important role in natural cancer prevention. (1)
Chlorophyll Benefits
1. Helps Fight Cancer
Chlorophyll benefits include the ability to help fight cancer. Research has shown that chlorophyll is able to bind to potential carcinogens and interfere with the absorption process, which can stop carcinogens from being circulated throughout the body. Chlorophyll benefits also include the ability to effectively protect DNA from damage by decreasing certain biomarkers. (2)
2. Improves Liver Detoxification
Next, chlorophyll benefits include the ability to cleanse the liver. Interestingly, it works by increasing phase II biotransformation enzymes. You see, these enzymes promote liver health and help eliminate harmful toxins from the body. Also, studies have shown that chlorophyll may help reduce the risk of liver damage and liver cancer.
In one study, researchers treated hepatocellular carcinoma and chronic hepatitis B patients with chlorophyllin or a placebo three times per day. After 16 weeks, researchers found that the participants taking chlorophyllin saw a 55% average drop of AFB1, a mycotoxin associated with an increased risk of liver cancer. (3)
3. Speeds Wound Healing
Chlorophyll benefits also include the ability to speed wound healing. How? Well, it can slow the reproduction rate of harmful bacteria. In fact, chlorophyll is often added to medicinal creams and ointments to help heal open wounds, including ulcers. Chlorophyll benefits the healing process by lowering inflammation, fighting harmful bacteria, and speeding up the recovery process. (4)
4. Improves Digestion and Weight Control
Among its many benefits, chlorophyll may also improve digestion. By speeding up the detoxification process, chlorophyll helps eliminate waste from the body and balance fluid levels to prevent constipation. Studies have shown that chlorophyll benefits also include the ability to aid in weight loss.
According to a 2014 study, chlorophyll supplements taken with a high-carbohydrate meal helped decrease hunger and prevent hypoglycemia in overweight women. In addition, research has also shown that chlorophyll supplements can help balance the release of cholecystokinin, ghrelin, and insulin. These hormones help produce a feeling of fullness. Therefore, this suggests that chlorophyll may help suppress hunger and prevent weight gain in humans. (5)
5. Protects the Skin
Last on our list, chlorophyll benefits include the ability to protect the skin. That's thanks to its antiviral effects. For example, it can help stop cold sores from developing due to the herpes simplex virus. Studies have shown that creams and ointments containing chlorophyll can work as a natural herpes treatment by reducing the number of cold sores and speeding up the healing process. Chlorophyll can also help protect the skin from shingles and reduce the risk of skin cancer. (6)
Top Chlorophyll Foods
- Spinach: As a leafy green vegetable, spinach is the top source of chlorophyll. It contains 23.7 milligrams per cup.
- Parsley: Parsley is another leafy green that is rich in chlorophyll. You see, just half a cup contains 9 milligrams.
- Watercress: Watercress is also among the top sources of chlorophyll, containing 15.6 milligrams per cup.
- Green Beans: Fresh green beans, also a good source, contain about 8 milligrams of chlorophyll per one cup.
- Arugula: As a leafy green, arugula is packed with chlorophyll. It contains about 8.2 milligrams per cup.
- Leeks: Leeks are another healthy source of chlorophyll. One cup contains 7.7 milligrams.
- Endive: Endive contains 5.2 milligrams of chlorophyll per cup, so add it to your daily diet for a chlorophyll boost.
- Sugar Snap Peas: Small but mighty, sugar snap peas are loaded with chlorophyll. They contain a whopping 23.7 milligrams per cup.
- Chinese Cabbage: Even Chinese cabbage provides a good amount of chlorophyll, and each cup offers about 4.1 milligrams of it.
