Chlorophyll

Question 1

What is chlorophyll and what is its main function in plants?

Answer 1

Chlorophyll is a green pigment used in photosynthesis to trap light energy and produce ATP.

Question 2

Which mineral is at the center of the chlorophyll molecule?

Answer 2

Magnesium (unlike haemoglobin, which has iron).

Question 3

Name some food sources rich in chlorophyll.

Answer 3

Dark leafy greens like spinach, rocket, parsley, and cress.

Question 4

Which vitamins and minerals are abundant in chlorophyll?

Answer 4

Vitamins A, C, E, K and minerals magnesium, iron, calcium, and potassium.

Question 5

How does chlorophyll support detoxification?

Answer 5

Binds to certain carcinogenic chemicals e.g. heterocyclic amines (like those from cooked meats) polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (tobacco smoke, grilled/charred meat) and aflatoxins (food borne toxins produced by certain fungi). And supports liver detox by down-regulating phase I enzymes and inducing phase II.

Question 6

What antioxidant benefits does chlorophyll provide?

Answer 6

Decreases oxidative damage including chemical carcinogens and radiation treatment and promotes endogenous antioxidant activity.

Question 7

What anti-inflammatory action does chlorophyll have?

Answer 7

It inhibits the pro-inflammatory TNF-α gene, which can be activated by lipopolysaccharides (LPS)released from bacteria. From intestinal bacterial infections/intestinal permeability.

Question 8

How does chlorophyll support energy production?

Answer 8

It is rich in magnesium, a mineral essential for ATP synthesis.

Question 9

In what form is chlorophyll used for wound healing?

Answer 9

As topical chlorophyllin (creams or ointments), used since the 1940s.

Question 10

What are the deodorizing uses of chlorophyll?

Answer 10

Reduces body odor in people with colostomies, ileostomies or incontinence, etc., at doses of 100–200 mg/day.

Question 11

Why is chlorophyll considered alkalising?

Answer 11

Due to its high alkaline mineral content, which helps balance excess acidity in the body.

Question 12

What destroys chlorophyll when preparing food?

Answer 12

Overcooking — light steaming or eating raw helps retain its benefits.

Question 13

What is chlorophyllin?

Answer 13

A semi-synthetic supplement form of chlorophyll, where magnesium is replaced with copper.

Question 14

What are the benefits and clinical applications of Chlorophyll?

Answer 14

1. Detoxification.
2. Antioxidant.
3. Reduced inflammation.
4. Supports energy production.
5. Promotes wound healing.
6. Deodorant properties.