As you know we’re constantly exposed to a wide array of toxins, chemicals, and pollutants. Some are made by our own body as waste, but many are external toxins from our surrounding environment. Whilst our bodies are designed to naturally metabolise, and expel unwanted elements, it’s ability to cope with these challenges can diminish with an ever-increasing overload of toxins.
The good news is there’s a green pigment in plants called Chlorophyll that harnesses the sun’s energy in photosynthesis. Photosynthesis is the process in which plants absorb light from the sun — along with water and carbon dioxide — and transform it into the food they need for growth. Oxygen, the nutrient that virtually all require to generate energy in their mitochondria, is a byproduct of photosynthesis. Chlorophyll gives plants their green colour. The deeper, darker the green, the more chlorophyll the plant contains.
BENEFITS OF CHLOROPHYLL
- Binds to carcinogenic chemicals, allowing your body to safely eliminate them
- Antioxidant effects, decreasing cellular damage caused by carcinogenic chemicals/radiation
- Helps cleanse and detoxify your bowels, liver, and blood
- Improves transport of oxygen throughout your body
- Relieves inflammation and pain
- Stimulates your immune system
- Boosts beneficial bacteria in your intestines
- Improves energy as it allows your body to derive energy from the sun through the consumption of plant chlorophyll
BEST SOURCES OF CHLOROPHYLL
As already mentioned, dark green vegetables are a rich source of chlorophyll. Another excellent source, indeed one of the best, is chlorella, a green algae often recommended to help detoxify the body of heavy metals. Chlorella is particularly good for binding and eliminating mercury, and can therefore be useful when eating a lot of fish. It’s also high in plant-based protein. Spirulina, if you can tolerate the taste, is another algae, which is also incredibly high in chlorophyll.
Here’s a list of the approximate amount of chlorophyll per 10 grams found in various food sources:
- Spirulina 300mg
- Chlorella 280mg
- Barley grass 150mg
- Wheatgrass 55mg
- Parsley 15mg
- Raw spinach 8mg
- Rocket 4mg
- Cress 3mg
- Endive 1mg
- Leeks 0.5mg
Also, don’t forget NATURE’S SUNSHINE LIQUID CHLOROPHYLL for added chlorophyll support. It’s naturally flavoured with spearmint oil and can be enjoyed as a refreshing drink, leaving the breath minty fresh.