What is Chlorophyll?

Chlorophyll is quickly becoming one of the most popular crazes in the health food and supplement industries, and it's not hard to see why. This natural compound exists in green plants. It gives leaves, stalks and other green components their distinct color. In plants, chlorophyll facilitates photosynthesis, playing a critical role in a plant's ability to absorb energy from the sun.

There are two types of chlorophyll, and green plants can contain either variety. Both are fat-soluble and have properties that can benefit humans.

If you're considering adding a green superfood supplement to your daily routine, here's what you need to know about the chlorophyll compound.

Where Does Chlorophyll Come From?

This compound is present in green plants and is abundant in many plant-based foods. It's most prevalent in leafy greens like spinach, kale and lettuce. Plants like broccoli, peas, green beans and other green-colored food crops contain chlorophyll.

When you buy a green superfood supplement, it likely contains a chlorophyll-rich ingredient like plant-based foods. However, many supplement makers source chlorophyll through an organism you're less likely to see at your grocery store: Algae.

Algae varieties like chlorella and spirulina are some of the richest sources of chlorophyll available. Manufacturers typically dry and process algae, making it a powerful addition to drink mixes and oral supplements.

The Health Benefits of Chlorophyll

There are many benefits to ingesting chlorophyll.

The compound has antioxidant properties. While not as potent as other antioxidant nutrients, chlorophyll supplements can increase antioxidants in the bloodstream. The compound may help decrease oxidative damage caused by carcinogens.

Several studies also show that chlorophyll is a powerful tool for cancer prevention. Studies involving rodents indicate chlorophyll binds with aflatoxins, carcinogenic chemicals that can cause cancer and damage genes. When binding occurs, the chlorophyll prevents the body from absorbing cancer-causing aflatoxins. Scientists continue to study the effects of chlorophyll intake and its impact on cancers affecting skin, stomach, colon and liver cancers.

As an antioxidant, chlorophyll is promising and can be a fantastic addition to your diet. It's also said to help improve skin healing, promote weight loss and provide energy.

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