What Exactly Is Chlorophyll Water—And Is It Worth The Hype?

We looked into the research and chatted with a couple of experts to get their take.

You can ingest chlorophyll directly from plants, algae, and sea vegetables (chlorella, parsley, and spinach all contain significant amounts) or via supplements. Most supplements contain a chlorophyll derivative called chlorophyllin—often listed as sodium copper chlorophyllin on the ingredient list—that's water-soluble and better absorbed by the body. Most research on the potential health benefits of chlorophyll has been performed with chlorophyllin.

As mentioned above, research on the health benefits of consuming chlorophyll supplements and chlorophyll water isn't as robust as we'd like, but there are practitioners who have used it successfully with their patients, and there have been some promising studies that are worth considering.

Though it's not clear whether chlorella's chelating (i.e., heavy-metal-binding) properties come solely from chlorophyll or from a combination of compounds.

In lab studies4, chlorophyll has also shown some promise in helping the immune system fight colon cancer cells.

How significant these effects are is not yet clear, but it's the reason some people choose to supplement with chlorophyll after flights, as we are exposed to increased levels of radiation during air travel7.

While there have been a number of other claims made regarding the health benefits of chlorophyll, there's just not enough evidence at this time to back them up.

Both Cannon and Will Cole, D.C., IFMCP, a functional medicine practitioner, emphasize the importance of quality when selecting a chlorophyll supplement (or any dietary supplement for that matter). Look for chlorophyll supplement brands without binders or fillers.

You can also take a chlorella powder supplement or tablet, which naturally contains chlorophyll and a variety of other nutrients. The best time of day to take chlorophyll is really any time of day—it shouldn't disrupt your sleep routine.

Chlorophyll is generally safe10, with no toxic effects being reported in over 50 years of clinical use. Some minor things to watch out for include,

If you choose to get your chlorophyll from a chlorella powder, however, keep in mind that this microalgae also contains vitamin K and iodine, so it shouldn't be taken with blood-thinning medications, warns Cannon. 

Supplements and trendy chlorophyll waters aren't the only way to boost your intake. As a general rule, green vegetables, especially those that are green all the way through (as opposed to green veggies with a whitish or lighter center like broccoli) have the highest chlorophyll content. The following foods are great sources of chlorophyll:

The research on chlorophyll for protection against radiation and heavy metals is promising, but much of it has yet to be proved in humans. The good news: Practitioners have had success using chlorophyll with their patients, and the side effects of chlorophyll are minimal. If you're curious, give it a try and see how you feel. Just chat with your doctor first, especially if you are taking another medication. Or just up your chlorophyll intake the old-fashioned way: by eating your greens!