Chlorophyll (100 mg)

Plants produce their food through the process of photosynthesis. To accomplish this they rely on chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the plant’s green color. In the process the plant converts sun energy to chemical energy changing carbon dioxide and water into carbohydrates for food. Oxygen is also released. Researchers became interested in chlorophyll’s potential application to human health after discovering its molecular structure. At the center is a magnesium atom. Chlorophyll’s structure closely resembles the hemi part of hemoglobin which is responsible for transporting oxygen to the cells. This similarity is believed to account for some of chlorophyll’s benefits as a supplement.

Because magnesium is at the center of chlorophyll, it is very efficient at delivering this necessary mineral through the body. Magnesium is a key element in a number of body functions important to good health. Also because the structure is similar to hemoglobin, researchers believe chlorophyll can help carry oxygen to tissues and aid in the removal carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide.

Chlorophyll may be beneficial as an anti-inflammatory and for wound healing. It also functions as an antioxidant. Normal body processes like breathing along with exposure to environmental conditions like cigarette smoke, pollution, or even the sun, can result in free radical production. Free radicals can cause damage on the cellular level leading to aging and degenerative diseases. Antioxidants scavenge free radicals preventing the damage.

Chlorophyll assists the body in absorbing calcium. It can also assist in the break up of kidney stones. Chlorophyll also has a long history of use to quell bad breath. Adding chlorophyll to the diet may also reduce fecal, urinary, and general body odor.