When you think of chlorophyll, you probably think of plants. Chlorophyll is a pigment that provides plants with their green color, and it is also necessary for plants to convert sunlight into energy in the process of photosynthesis. However, the benefits of chlorophyll are not restricted solely to plants; chlorophyll is rich with antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and enzymes and can provide many other positive effects for your health. With its antioxidant properties, chlorophyll can help reduce free radical damage and oxidative stress, which can be precursors to cancer and other illnesses. In addition, chlorophyll plays a role in detoxifying your body, and it can also aid with balancing your immune system. Let's explore several methods of receiving the benefits and nutrients of chlorophyll.
1. Sip a chlorophyll-rich smoothie.
By making a green smoothie rich with chlorophyll-containing veggies—like spinach, kale, broccoli, cucumber and parsley, for example—you can enjoy the benefits of this antioxidant in a naturally delicious manner. According to Stephanie Tourles, holistic esthetician with training in nutritional science and author of Raw Energy in a Glass, diets loaded with chlorophyll can also help to increase your energy, improve the alkalinity of your blood and aid with reducing heavy metal content in your body. Here is one recipe for a chlorophyll-rich smoothie that Stephanie Tourles recommends to provide you with plenty of health benefits:
- 1 medium, ripe Haas avocado
- 1 ½ cups purified water
- 2 medium or 3 small bananas, peeled, cut into chunks
- ¾ cup packaged parsley leaves, chopped
- 1 pinch of sea salt
Slice the avocado lengthwise, remove the pit and scoop out the flesh. Blend the avocado, water, bananas, parsley and salt on a high setting for 30 seconds or until thick. Blend for as long as it takes for the parsley leaves to be liquefied. Serve immediately.
2. Try liquid chlorophyll.
According to the Linus Pauling Institute Micronutrient Research for Optimum Health, chlorophyll can act as an internal deodorizer, which can benefit those with foul-smelling wounds and stools, body odor and possibly even bad breath. Swishing a bit of liquid chlorophyll in your mouth may be able to provide temporary relief from halitosis. In addition, it might be able to healthy gums with its anti-inflammatory properties. Adding a drop or two of liquid chlorophyll to a glass of water or another beverage may also be able to contribute to keeping your body more alkaline and your pH balanced, therefore reducing acidity. Liquid chlorophyll also contains high amounts of vitamins A, C and E, which can provide significant antioxidant protection.
3. Take chlorophyll capsules.
Adding a chlorophyll supplement to your routine can help enhance many aspects of your health. In addition to improving your red blood cell count, chlorophyll capsules can encourage fast magnesium delivery, which is critical in transporting oxygen to cells and tissues. In addition, it is also essential in bone formation and the proper and effective function of nerves and muscles. Chlorophyll capsules might also be able to help relieve symptoms of gastric irritation, like indigestion and constipation. Supplementing with chlorophyll before or after a workout can help encourage effective muscle repair by scavenging free radicals that may interfere with the process, according to Clayton South, SPN (ISSA), an expert in bodybuilding and fitness.
Chlorophyll can provide a variety of benefits for your health. As with any supplement, you should consult your doctor before trying chlorophyll. Taking chlorophyll supplements may temporarily cause your tongue to change color. If you experience stomach cramps or diarrhea, stop using chlorophyll and visit your doctor. Talk to your doctor before using if you are pregnant or nursing.
We hope you enjoyed reading about some of the ways that chlorophyll can enhance your health. Check out our selection of chlorophyll products and more at eVitamins, and have a great day!
