Chlorophyll, the pigment responsible for the green color of vegetables, may provide health benefits, according to studies. What we know is as follows.
In the year 2021, while browsing TikTok, you stumble across a video of an influencer sipping what seems like water from a green swamp and hearing claims that it is good for your complexion. The trick? It seems to be chlorophyll. More than 250 million videos have been viewed using the hashtag #chlorophyllwater on TikTok, and the purported benefits aren’t limited to the skin. Several videos claim that chlorophyll can be used as a natural deodorant and aid in weight loss. But could that possibly be true? The true advantages of chlorophyll are explored here. First things first: what exactly is chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll: what is it?
That may sound strange, but most of us have been unknowingly absorbing chlorophyll for the better part of our lives. That’s because it’s a component of every green plant and vegetable. That includes everything from spinach and broccoli to sprouts and green beans. Chlorophyll is the green pigment found in plants. Its primary function in photosynthesis is to facilitate solar absorption by plants, making it an essential component of the process.
What do chlorophyll’s advantages entail?
Chlorophyll may be beneficial to health, according to some research. It’s not a miraculous cure for acne, but its anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and antibacterial characteristics may help with inflammatory skin disorders. Not even the most viral videos on TikTok can change your mind.
Dermatologist Sheila Farhang, MD, told InStyle that it would be amazing if people found that ingesting chlorophyll made them feel good, invigorated, and helped their acne. But, “drinking more chlorophyll will likely not benefit someone who is suffering from severe cystic acne and they should see a dermatologist.”
And what about the claims made for all-natural deodorants? A small body of evidence suggests that chlorophyll may aid some persons in lowering body odor. Chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic water-soluble derivative of chlorophyll, was “useful in suppressing body and fecal odors” in a trial of 62 elderly nursing home residents published in January 1980.
Further research is needed to determine whether chlorophyll aids in weight loss, speeds wound healing, or slows the growth of cancer. According to Medical News Today, “most investigations [into chlorophyll] so far have been modest and limited.” And many of the purported health advantages have not been verified in human trials.
Chlorophyll: How to Add It to Your Diet
Chlorophyll can be ingested in a wide variety of ways. Chlorophyllin-containing supplements, which can be taken orally or mixed into beverages, are one option. Although there is a lack of evidence demonstrating their usefulness, chlorophyll supplements are generally accepted as safe for human consumption. However, before beginning any new treatment, especially during pregnancy or while breastfeeding, you should consult your doctor.
However, you can increase your chlorophyll consumption without resorting to supplements. Green vegetables, especially dark leafy greens, are a better alternative. Numerous other beneficial nutrients, such as iron, fiber, magnesium, vitamin C, and others, can be found in these foods.
Vegan chlorophyll recipes
Here are a few of our favorite recipes featuring green vegetables to help you get your recommended daily intake of chlorophyll from your diet.
1 Vegetarian Broccoli Steaks with Za’atar Seasoning
Broccoli can be somewhat tasteless if it is served unseasoned. When seasoned with za’atar, paprika, salt, and chopped hazelnuts, this unassuming green vegetable becomes a flavorful addition to any meal and, quite frankly, deserves center stage. The end of the simple vegetable side dish? It’s over now.
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- Tofu with Spicy Spinach and Chili, a Vegan Meal
A common Indian side dish, palak paneer consists of paneer cheese cooked in a creamy spinach gravy. Those on a vegan diet can still enjoy this delicious meal by subbing tofu for the cheese. The latter is preferable since it can take on the taste of whatever sauce you use with it.
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- Vegan Hazelnut Picada with Roasted Asparagus
The trick to elevating any green vegetable to the next level is simple: add hazelnuts. But not any old hazelnuts will do. Combine them with oil, salt, pepper, and garlic. Crispy and tasty.
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- White Bean and Kale Toast
Avocado on toast is a popular breakfast option. It’s a nutritious meal that can be prepared in a flash. But if you’re tired of the same old thing, try switching out the avocado for a topping of healthy white beans and greens. It’s equally luscious, tasty, and gratifying.
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5 Vegan Fetuccini with Roasted Broccoli and Lemon Sauce
There is no question that pasta and vegetables make the perfect pair. There is a nice variety in the textures. The broccoli florets in this quick and simple rigatoni dish are roasted after being marinated. To finish off the dish, add a few drops of fresh lemon juice.
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6.Balsamic Roasted Brussels Sprouts
Even though you might associate Brussels sprouts with the holidays, you can serve them any time of year. Roasted balsamic sprouts are so tasty that they should be served year-round. Serve with spaghetti or your favorite vegan meat for a quick, easy, and nutrient-dense dinner.
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7 Szechwan String Beans
These delectable string beans are a perfect example of how Szechwan, also known as Sichuan or Szechuan, food always offers maximum taste. You may use them in a stir fry with some noodles and tofu and serve it with some crispy spring rolls on the side.
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