The Health Benefits of Liquid Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is the pigment that makes plants green. It’s responsible for helping plants absorb energy from sunlight during photosynthesis. Consuming chlorophyll is known to have many health benefits.

Chlorophyll Benefits

• May prevent or treat cancer
• Helps liver detoxify
• May reduce inflammation
• May aid digestion
• Regulates hemoglobin
• Aids weight loss

Health Benefits

Most of the research conducted on chlorophyll benefits has been on its topical use. When applied topically, chlorophyll has been known to reduce acne and signs of aging. Several studies have also suggested the antioxidant benefits of chlorophyll as protective against cancer.

Although the information is limited, there is evidence and literature supporting the health benefits chlorophyll might have when taken internally. Supplemental chlorophyll can be taken in liquid, powder, or tablet form.

Reduces Cancerous Tumors and Cells

Studies show that chlorophylls can potentially prevent cancer and even treat cancer. Some evidence demonstrates that chlorophyll plays a role in cancer cell death in pancreatic and intestinal cancer. It has also been linked to the prevention of colon cancer.

It is important to note that while relatively nonpoisonous, chlorophyll can be harmful in large amounts. Since liquid chlorophyll is ingested, researchers have hypothesized that the supplement would be most beneficial in protecting against digestion-related cancers.

Improves Liver Detoxification

Chlorophyll has been shown to enhance the liver’s natural ability to remove toxins and waste from the body. This process is known as detoxification. One study on human and rat livers almost thirty years ago introduced these properties of chlorophyll. Specifically, in this research, chlorophyllin, a copper/sodium salt of chlorophyll, was found to fight against liver damage and potentially liver cancer by making the detoxification process more effective.

Treats Hemoglobin Deficiencies

Liquid chlorophyll may be what’s called a “blood builder.” This means it can potentially increase the count of red blood cells and improve their quality.

Red blood cells contain a molecule called hemoglobin, which has a very similar chemical structure to chlorophyll. Because of this nearly identical makeup, chlorophyll may be an effective treatment in patients with hemoglobin deficiencies such as anemia.

A 2016 study that used a form of chlorophyll to treat patients with anemia found that its use may improve anemia symptoms. Another study suggests that grass drinks high in chlorophyll could treat hemoglobin deficiencies due to the antioxidant activity of the chlorophyll and its molecular structure that resembles red blood cells.

Aids in Weight Loss

Several small studies have been conducted to determine whether chlorophyll supports healthy weight loss in humans. Although more research is required to make a more confident claim about chlorophyll and weight loss, some evidence suggests meals rich in chlorophyll can increase satiety or a feeling of fullness, which can reduce appetite in the short term.

Benefits That Need More Research

Liquid chlorophyll is believed to have many more health benefits than has been studied. A significant amount of research suggests topical chlorophyll has many benefits, but the research on liquid chlorophyll is behind.

Other health benefits of liquid chlorophyll that need more research include:

• Improves digestion
• Relieves constipation
• Reduces inflammation, especially in arthritis
• Anti-aging benefits
• Prevents body odor
• Reduces yeast in patients with Candida

Possible Side Effects

When introducing a new supplement into your routine, it’s important to consider the possible side effects. The side effects associated with taking liquid chlorophyll are mild. They’re mainly associated with digestion. Chlorophyll is believed to be non-toxic. For the most part, liquid chlorophyll is a safe and mild supplement.

Digestive Discomfort

The digestive system starts in the mouth. Since liquid chlorophyll is ingested through the mouth and travels through the digestive tract, this is where most of the side effects occur.

Some of the mild side effects reported include:

• Nausea
• Gastrointestinal cramping
• Diarrhea
• Discolored stools
• Vomiting

These symptoms usually occur when liquid chlorophyll is taken excessively or on an empty stomach.

Contraindication

The existing research suggests that side effects resulting from consuming chlorophyll are rare. However, there’s not enough research to conclude whether liquid chlorophyll is safe for pregnant or breastfeeding people.

Chlorophyll supplements may also inhibit certain prescription medications. Specifically, they can interfere with medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight. Taking chlorophyll alongside photosensitizing drugs can increase the risk of sunburns and sun damage.

Dosage and Preparation

Liquid chlorophyll is taken orally. It comes in liquid or powder form mixed with water or another drink. You can also take chlorophyll in tablet form. Liquid chlorophyll is an accessible supplement available in many health food stores, online, and over-the-counter at local pharmacies. Look for it in the herbal supplements section.

Liquid chlorophyll is commonly added to smoothies and juices. It’s also commonly found in powders mixed with other greens, such as spirulina, wheatgrass, and chlorella.

There is no recommended daily allowance for liquid chlorophyll. Doses vary per liquid chlorophyll supplement, but the average amount is 100mg per serving.

What to Look For

Because chlorophyll supplements are unregulated, you should look for options that third parties have tested for potency, purity, and safety. Choose the ones produced in FDA-regulated facilities for supplements made under the strictest standards.

Foods Naturally High in Chlorophyll

An alternative to liquid chlorophyll supplements is consuming foods naturally high in chlorophyll. This can also be done alongside taking chlorophyll supplements.

Chlorophyll-rich foods include:

• Parsley
• Alfalfa
• Arugula
• Wheatgrass
• Seaweed
• Spirulina
• Spinach