Chlorophyll: Worth the Hype?
You’ve probably heard of chlorophyll by now, especially thanks to the rise in popularity on social media. Viral claims of eliminating body odor and curing acne have been circling but is any of this true? Is this little compound ACTUALLY that powerful?
Well, I’m here to tell you that it may be just as powerful and amazing as people claim it to be!
I have been taking chlorophyll consistently for almost two years now. I originally began taking this because my functional doctor recommended it to support natural detoxification while on certain protocols!
I was familiar with chlorophyll from past biology classes, but as far as using it as a supplement, I knew nothing. What I DID know was how I had noticed significant improvements since I started taking it - my skin was clearer and glowy, I had more energy, my digestion was more regular. Now, I want to remind you that at the time I was also on a detoxing and gut healing protocol so those were most likely factors as well. But so many others had reported similar results so I was intrigued - naturally, I did some research on what other benefits this little badass has!
What exactly IS chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is the natural compound found in plants that give them their pretty green color. It helps with the process of photosynthesis (food from sunlight) to efficiently absorb nutrients to give the plant energy!
It’s important to note that what you’re actually consuming when taking a supplement is called chlorophyllin. This is water-soluble so it is easier for your body to absorb properly!
Benefits:
Detoxification:
The liver has one of the most important jobs in our body, detoxification. Even though our natural detoxification system is amazing, we are exposed to too many toxins in our everyday lives. You might be thinking “but that’s what the liver does” - yeah well, it can only take so much at a time without support. Many (if not all) of us need extra support in making sure our bodies push these toxins out so they don’t stay and move into our healthy cells. Toxins can build up from heavy metals, personal care products, pesticides, pollution, judgment, negative self-talk… we can’t get away from it. So THAT’s why we support in any way we can!
Chlorophyll works in the liver to take out and move toxins that may be stuck or overburdening. It acts as a binder to toxins to keep from reaching our healthy cells and causing further damage. Once the accumulated toxins are moved out, they’re replenished with oxygen and magnesium.
Promotes the Production of Red Blood Cells:
This is so cool - the molecular structure of chlorophyll is actually very similar to hemoglobin in our body! There have been studies showing that this increases and strengthens red blood cells which result in better transportation of oxygen AKA they can then carry more oxygen around our bodies and we’re left with more energy.
High in Antioxidants:
Being high in antioxidants means this is a huge help in regulating oxidative stress and free radicals in the body. When free radicals are built up in high amounts, that’s when they can cause illness. Although our bodies have antioxidant-producing systems of their own, it’s ideal to add extra support using our diet as well! That’s why you’ll often hear recommendations for berries, greens, and other whole plant-based foods.
The brain is more susceptible to free radical absorption so when we are consuming higher quantities of antioxidants we may notice better moods, clear cognition and focus, and memory retention!
Clear Skin:
Being high in antioxidants A, C, E, and K, chlorophyll can improve skin appearance - making it more firm, elastic, and youthful-looking. This is amazing for slowing skin aging, resulting in a smoother and brighter complexion!
Anti-Inflammatory:
I’ve already mentioned how chlorophyll is a key component in producing and optimizing energy on a cellular level. With our cells being healthy, under less stress, and working optimally, the level of stress in our body lowers! The less stress we’re experiencing, the less inflammation there will be. increase the good stuff to eliminate / neutralize the bad!!
How to Take It:
EAT YOUR GREENS (wheatgrass, spinach, parsley, arugula, etc.) - you’ll consume minimal amounts directly from food but it’s still important to add these in for nutrient variety!
Tablet form
Liquid form (add to water) - aka the viral method! (and what I use)
As with all supplements, sourcing is important! I strongly recommend going to your local health food store to pick up any form if you’re planning on doing so. Make sure that there are limited ingredients and no unnecessary additives (you don’t need sugar or sweetener with this)!
Let me know if you already take chlorophyll or if you’re thinking about it! What benefits are you hoping to feel / see?