Around the world, Chlorophyll is growing in popularity as a supplement. As New Zealand Nutritionals has discovered with its liquid chlorophyll products, consumers are increasingly waking up to the wide range of benefits this potent supplement can offer.
Occurring naturally as one of the most important pigments on the planet, chlorophyll Is found in photosynthetic plants and some micro-organisms (ie. algae).
Chlorophyll appears green because it can absorb the violet, red and blue light, while reflecting the green light, which is why the leaves and other parts of the plant show a green colour.
If ingested naturally, the best source of chlorophyll comes from vegetables and herbs that are green, inside and out, such as spinach or parsley. Whilst some vegetables may be green on the outside, they have lower amounts of chlorophyll due to having whitish interiors, such as broccoli and asparagus.
Within the plant cells, chlorophyll is located in the chloroplasts, where they transform light energy into chemical energy.
Chlorophyll supplements are derived from ‘chlorophyllin’, a chemical made from chlorophyll which contains copper (sodium copper chlorophyll) instead of magnesium. The copper can be detected in plasma, indicating absorption has occurred.
Once in the body, chlorophyllin appears to produce positive effects in:
Reducing inflammation and bacterial growth in skin wounds
Supporting intestinal nourishment, particularly mucous linings and tissues
Supporting liver function and detoxification of the body
Antioxidant defence against damaging free radicals
Potential reduction of cancerous tumours, as indicated by animal studies and trials, whereby the chlorophyll or chlorophyllin forms molecular complexes with some chemicals suspected to cause cancer (eg. aflatoxin-B1), and may help block their carcinogenic effects
Improving the quality of red blood cells
Providing a form of natural deodorant, by decreasing trimethylamines, that can cause a fishy odour
Whilst not known to be toxic, there are insufficient studies on the effects of chlorophyll on pregnant or breastfeeding women.
If taking medication, pregnant or breastfeeding, it is recommended to check with your doctor before taking chlorophyll in case of any negative interactions.
Comments