What is the Difference Between Chlorophyll and Chlorophyllin?
To understand the benefits of chlorophyll, it is crucial to distinguish between its natural form and the type found in most supplements. Natural chlorophyll is the fat-soluble green pigment in plants with a central magnesium atom. It is relatively unstable and not well-absorbed by the human body.
Chlorophyllin, the form sold in most liquid drops, capsules, and powders, is a semi-synthetic, water-soluble derivative. During processing, the central magnesium atom is replaced with a more stable copper atom. This modification significantly improves absorption, allowing the body to utilize it more effectively than natural chlorophyll. The health effects attributed to supplements are generally linked to this modified form, chlorophyllin.
Antioxidant and Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Like many plant-based compounds, chlorophyll and its derivatives possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Antioxidants neutralize free radicals in the body, which can cause cellular damage and contribute to premature aging and disease. While the antioxidant power of chlorophyll isn't as strong as some vitamins, regular intake of chlorophyll-rich vegetables boosts antioxidant levels in the bloodstream. Furthermore, chlorophyll has shown anti-inflammatory effects in some animal and test-tube studies, helping to reduce inflammation in the gut and elsewhere.
How Chlorophyll Supports Detoxification
One of the most promising areas of research for chlorophyllin is its role in detoxification. It can form tight molecular complexes with certain potential carcinogens, such as aflatoxins found in moldy food. By binding to these toxins, chlorophyllin may interfere with their absorption in the gastrointestinal tract, allowing for their safe elimination. A study on individuals with high aflatoxin exposure saw a significant decrease in a related DNA damage biomarker after taking chlorophyllin supplements.
Potential Benefits for Skin Health
Chlorophyll's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties extend to potential benefits for the skin, though much of the evidence is from small studies, primarily using topical applications.
- Acne Reduction: A 2015 pilot study found that a topical chlorophyllin gel improved acne and large pores in just three weeks.
- Wound Healing: Early research has explored ointments containing chlorophyllin for healing skin wounds, with some suggesting a reduction in inflammation and bacterial growth, though larger studies are still needed.
- Anti-Aging: The antioxidant content may help fight free radical damage, which contributes to skin aging. Some topical studies have observed improvements in sun-damaged and aged skin.
Addressing Body Odor from the Inside Out
For decades, chlorophyllin has been used as an internal deodorant, with some evidence from outdated studies supporting its use. While results are mixed, one study on people with trimethylaminuria (a condition causing a fishy odor) found chlorophyllin significantly decreased the odor-causing compound. It is believed that chlorophyllin's ability to neutralize odor-causing compounds and potentially inhibit bacteria in the gut contributes to this effect.
Supporting Gut and Immune Health
Chlorophyll has shown promise in supporting the gastrointestinal system and immune response.
- Promotes Beneficial Bacteria: As a prebiotic, it can help nourish and promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy and diverse gut flora is linked to better digestion, nutrient absorption, and immune function.
- Soothes Inflammation: Its anti-inflammatory effects can be beneficial for the gut lining, potentially helping with conditions like IBD.
- Strengthens Gut Barrier: Some research indicates it can help maintain the integrity of the tight junctions in the intestinal lining, which helps prevent a 'leaky gut'.
Chlorophyll vs. Chlorophyllin: A Comparison Table
| Feature | Natural Chlorophyll | Chlorophyllin (Supplement Form) |
|---|---|---|
| Source | Found naturally in green plants like spinach, kale, and wheatgrass. | Semi-synthetic, derived from chlorophyll with a copper core. |
| Absorption | Poorly absorbed by the human digestive system. | Water-soluble and better absorbed, especially in liquid form. |
| Stability | Less stable, can degrade with heat and acidity. | Highly stable to light, heat, and acidity. |
| Benefits | Provides antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits via dietary intake; associated with fiber and other nutrients. | Associated with potential benefits for detoxification, body odor, and skin health. |
| Nutrient Profile | Comes with a host of other vitamins, minerals, and fiber in whole foods. | Isolated compound, benefits may be limited without the synergistic effect of other nutrients. |
| Safety | Considered safe, no known toxic effects from natural intake. | Considered safe, but can cause mild gastrointestinal issues; safety during pregnancy or breastfeeding is not established. |
How to Get Chlorophyll in Your Diet
The most effective and nutrient-rich way to get chlorophyll is through whole foods. Dark, leafy green vegetables have the highest concentration.
- Spinach
- Parsley
- Kale
- Collard greens
- Wheatgrass
- Chlorella and Spirulina (algae with very high concentrations)
- Green Beans
- Broccoli
- Arugula
Conclusion
Research indicates that chlorophyll, particularly the more bioavailable chlorophyllin found in supplements, offers several potential health benefits, including powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It has shown promise in supporting detoxification by binding to potential carcinogens, improving skin health, and acting as an internal deodorizer. While consuming chlorophyll from leafy green vegetables is a healthy and safe way to obtain its benefits alongside other essential nutrients, supplements may be an option for those seeking higher levels, though some caution is advised. It's always best to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen, especially for those with existing health conditions or who are pregnant or breastfeeding.
For more detailed scientific information on chlorophyll and its derivatives, consult research from the National Institutes of Health.
