Chlorophyll may remind you of a school science lesson. But this green pigment found in plants is fast-becoming a food trend due to its potential impact on the body and skin. Gwyneth Paltrow tipped it for the top when she wrote about the benefits of drinking a shot of the green stuff recently. And because it’s plant-based it means if you follow a veggie-loving vegan diet, you could be benefitting from its health properties.
Vegan on Female First
Holland & Barrett nutritionist Emily Rollason explains how chlorophyll can help your body.
INCREASES BLOOD CELLS TO STAVE OFF ANAEMIA
“When cutting red meat from your diet you need to ensure you are getting your iron intake in other ways or it can lead to anaemia. However, the great news for vegans is that leafy greens containing high levels of chlorophyll are a source of iron, however they are a less absorbable form than the iron from meats so you need high amounts. Chlorophyll is present in veg like spinach, kale and green beans, so make sure you’re regularly getting these into your daily diet,” Emily says.
An easy way to get chlorophyll into your diet is Chlorophyll-packed Spirulina. Simply add it to your morning smoothie, soup at lunch or even sprinkling it over your eggs. Try Naturya Organic Spirulina Powder, £14.99 for 7000mg in Holland & Barrett stores nationwide.
IMPROVES YOUR SKIN
“The high B12 content in spirulina may potentially boost blood cell count meaning it may have a positive impact on the skin, improving clarity and making it look brighter. Vitamin B12 is often lacking in vegan diets and healthy levels may contribute towards normal skin health. Because chlorophyll also has anti-oxidant properties it may even slow down the ageing process,” Emily explains.
ANTI-INFLAMMATORY PROPERTIES
“A study has shown that fresh green leaves have anti-inflammatory properties due to the chlorophyll they contain. This means that chlorophyll may help prevent inflammatory diseases such as atherosclerosis which may lead to cardiovascular disease in the long run,” Emily says.
HELPS THE LIVER AND TO BALANCE THE BODY
“A diet based on healthy foods such as vegetables makes for a healthy liver because it is under less pressure to process protein-rich meats. Due to its alkaline properties, chlorophyll is great for the liver, potentially protecting it from harm. It is perfect if you are looking to detoxify and want to neutralise the acid-forming foods in your diet, such as those high in salt or sugar. It can be easy to rely on processed meat alternatives when you’re vegan which can contain high levels of salt, while the daily coffee and biccy habit will make your body feel more acidic. Chlorophyll will help to rebalance your body’s PH levels to make you feel energised naturally,” says Emily.
PROMOTES HEALTHY BONES
“The power of plants is real! Plant-based diets promote healthy and strong bodies because chlorophyll-containing spirulina contains high amounts of calcium and magnesium which are vital for creating healthy bones and body tissue,” Emily explains.
Tagged in Vegan Plant Based