Does Chlorophyll Raise Iron Levels? An Evidence-Based Guide

October 3, 2025 •

3 min read

While often marketed as a natural 'blood builder,' natural chlorophyll does not contain iron at its core; instead, it is built around a magnesium atom. The widespread belief that does chlorophyll raise iron levels? is a common point of confusion, stemming from research on a synthetic derivative called iron chlorophyllin.

Quick Summary

The impact of chlorophyll on iron levels depends on its form; natural chlorophyll lacks iron, while a synthetic derivative called iron chlorophyllin shows promise in research for increasing iron absorption and combating anemia symptoms.

Key Points

Natural chlorophyll does not contain iron: The central atom of natural chlorophyll is magnesium, not iron, meaning it cannot directly raise your iron levels.
Iron chlorophyllin is a synthetic derivative: Scientific research linking chlorophyll to improved iron status is often based on 'iron chlorophyllin', a modified compound where magnesium is replaced with iron.
In-vitro studies show promise: Laboratory tests on intestinal cells suggest that iron chlorophyllin can effectively deliver bioavailable iron, potentially better than some common iron supplements.
Dietary iron is the primary source: The iron benefits from eating green leafy vegetables come from their non-heme iron content, not the chlorophyll itself.
Distinguish supplements carefully: Many popular chlorophyll supplements contain chlorophyllin with copper, not iron. It is important to check the specific form being used.
Consult a doctor for anemia: If you have iron deficiency anemia, consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment rather than relying on unverified claims about chlorophyll.

Unpacking the Molecular Differences

The fundamental misconception that chlorophyll directly boosts iron levels is rooted in its structural similarity to hemoglobin, the protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen. Both molecules share a similar porphyrin ring structure, but with one critical difference at their center: chlorophyll contains a magnesium atom, while hemoglobin contains an iron atom.

The Science Behind Chlorophyll and Hemoglobin

Chlorophyll: This green pigment is essential for photosynthesis in plants. Its central magnesium atom is responsible for its green color and light-absorbing properties. Natural chlorophyll, ingested by eating green vegetables, does not directly supply iron to the human body.
Hemoglobin: This protein in our red blood cells gives blood its red color. Its central iron atom is vital for binding and transporting oxygen throughout the body. An iron deficiency can lead to iron deficiency anemia, characterized by a lack of hemoglobin and oxygen-rich red blood cells.

The Role of Iron Chlorophyllin

The most promising research linking chlorophyll to iron metabolism involves a semi-synthetic derivative known as sodium iron chlorophyllin (SIC) or iron chlorophyllin (IC). In creating this compound, the central magnesium atom of chlorophyll is replaced with an iron atom, creating a molecule that the body can potentially use.

How Iron Chlorophyllin Affects Iron Absorption

In-vitro Studies: Research on human intestinal cells (Caco-2 cells) indicates that iron chlorophyllin can effectively deliver bioavailable iron. One study found that IC delivered as much iron to cells as heme iron and potentially more than common supplements like ferrous sulfate.
Clinical Trials: A 2019 clinical trial on individuals with iron deficiency anemia found that a supplement containing sodium iron chlorophyllin was associated with improved red blood cell counts and hemoglobin levels. In Traditional Chinese Medicine, a compound rich in this derivative has also been used for anemia treatment.

Comparison of Chlorophyll Types


Feature	Natural Chlorophyll (from plants)	Chlorophyllin (standard supplement)	Iron Chlorophyllin (specific derivative)
Central Atom	Magnesium (Mg)	Copper (Cu) or Zinc (Zn)	Iron (Fe)
Natural Source	Green vegetables, algae, wheatgrass	No, synthetic or semi-synthetic	No, semi-synthetic
Provides Iron?	No, but the food source might	No	Yes, contains bioavailable iron
Effect on Anemia	Indirect, through whole-food iron content	Limited evidence for direct iron impact	Promising research for improving blood parameters
Solubility	Fat-soluble	Water-soluble	Water-soluble

Natural Sources of Iron and Chlorophyll

For those seeking to increase iron intake through diet, focusing on foods rich in iron is key, regardless of their chlorophyll content. A diet rich in leafy greens like spinach provides both chlorophyll and non-heme iron. To maximize the absorption of non-heme iron from plant sources, it should be consumed alongside vitamin C-rich foods. For example, a spinach salad with citrus dressing would enhance iron uptake.

Food Sources for Iron and Chlorophyll

Iron-Rich Foods: Legumes (lentils, chickpeas), seeds (pumpkin, sesame), tofu, spinach, and fortified cereals are excellent sources of non-heme iron. Red meat, poultry, and fish provide more easily absorbed heme iron.
Chlorophyll-Rich Foods: While not directly providing iron, these foods are packed with other beneficial nutrients and fiber. Examples include wheatgrass, kale, collard greens, parsley, and green beans.

Considerations and Conclusion

While the resemblance between chlorophyll and hemoglobin has historically fueled speculation about its blood-building properties, modern research provides a more nuanced picture. Natural chlorophyll does not directly raise iron levels; any effect on blood parameters from consuming green foods is likely due to their inherent iron content and other nutrients. For individuals with iron deficiency anemia, a synthetic derivative, iron chlorophyllin, has shown promise in studies, but it is not the same as the chlorophyll found in plants or most standard supplements.

For most people, managing iron deficiency is best achieved through a balanced diet, consuming iron-rich foods, and following a healthcare provider's recommendations. If considering a supplement for anemia, it is crucial to consult a doctor to determine the appropriate form and dosage, especially given the distinction between standard chlorophyllin and the more targeted iron chlorophyllin derivative.

The Takeaway

The relationship between chlorophyll and iron is more complex than popular health claims suggest. The evidence indicates that while natural chlorophyll does not contain or directly increase iron, specific synthetic forms like iron chlorophyllin offer potential for iron delivery in supplement form. Rely on whole-food sources of iron and always seek medical advice for treating anemia.

Linus Pauling Institute - Chlorophyll and Metallo-Chlorophyll Derivatives

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, green vegetables like spinach and kale contain non-heme iron, which contributes to your total dietary iron intake. However, the iron is not from the chlorophyll itself, and absorption can be enhanced by eating them with foods rich in vitamin C.

No, chlorophyll and hemoglobin are not the same. While they have a similar molecular structure, chlorophyll's central atom is magnesium, while hemoglobin's is iron. This difference accounts for their distinct functions in plants and humans, respectively.

Chlorophyll is the natural, fat-soluble pigment in plants. Chlorophyllin is a semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative often used in dietary supplements. It contains a metal like copper or zinc at its center, not the magnesium found in natural chlorophyll.

No, standard liquid chlorophyll supplements typically contain chlorophyllin (with copper) and do not provide iron. Research showing an iron-boosting effect specifically uses a different synthetic derivative called iron chlorophyllin.

Some supplements exist that contain sodium iron chlorophyllin, a derivative where iron is the central atom. A 2019 clinical trial on children and adults with anemia used such a supplement and found improvements in red blood cell counts.

Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll, but its effect on red blood cells is not fully understood. It is also rich in iron and other nutrients, which may contribute to improving blood parameters in cases of iron deficiency anemia.

The safety of chlorophyll supplements for treating anemia depends on the specific product and underlying health conditions. Always consult a healthcare provider before taking supplements, as they are not regulated like medications and might have varying quality and efficacy.