Chlorophyll may be a term you haven’t heard since that high school science class on photosynthesis, but emerging research is proving just how beneficial this bright green pigment can be for our health – from our gut to our body odour! So if you frequently clear a room due to those smelly pits, this one’s for you.

Before we share the tasty foods you can find chlorophyll in, let’s take a look at why you’ll want to.

Antioxidant Properties: Chlorophyll exhibits antioxidant properties, helping to neutralise free radicals in the body. Antioxidants play a role in protecting cells from oxidative stress and may contribute to overall health.

Anti-Inflammatory Effects: Some studies suggest that chlorophyll may have anti-inflammatory effects, which can be beneficial for managing inflammation-related conditions in the body.

Detoxification Support: Chlorophyll is believed to support the body's natural detoxification processes by binding to and eliminating toxins. It may assist in the removal of heavy metals and other harmful substances.

Wound Healing: Chlorophyll has been explored for its potential role in wound healing. Some research suggests that it may help in reducing inflammation and promoting faster healing of wounds.

Body Odour Control: Chlorophyll is known for its deodorizing properties and has been used in certain products to help control body odour. It may help neutralise odours and reduce the growth of odour-producing bacteria.

Blood Health: Chlorophyll has been studied for its potential to support blood health. It is structurally similar to haemoglobin, the molecule responsible for transporting oxygen in the blood, and may have positive effects on red blood cell production.

Cancer Prevention: Some studies suggest that chlorophyll may have anti-cancer properties. It has been explored for its potential to inhibit the growth of cancer cells and protect against certain types of cancers.

Gut Health: Chlorophyll may contribute to gut health by promoting the growth of beneficial bacteria and supporting a balanced microbiome. A healthy gut is essential for overall digestion and immune function.

Skin Health: Chlorophyll has been investigated for its potential benefits to skin health. It may help in managing certain skin conditions and contribute to a healthier complexion.

Weight Management: Some research indicates that chlorophyll may have an impact on weight management by reducing cravings and promoting feelings of fullness. However, more research is needed in this area. 

So, where can you find this stuff? Well, you might already have some in your fridge!

Leafy Green Vegetables

Spinach, kale, collard greens, Swiss chard, and other leafy greens are excellent sources of chlorophyll. These vegetables are not only rich in nutrients but also contribute to overall health.

Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a young wheat plant that is harvested before the wheat kernels form. It is a potent source of chlorophyll and is often consumed as a juice or in powdered form as a supplement.

Algae

Spirulina and chlorella, both types of algae, are high in chlorophyll. These nutrient-dense superfoods are available as supplements and can be incorporated into smoothies or taken in capsule form.

Coriander 

Coriander is commonly used in culinary dishes and is a good source of chlorophyll. It adds a fresh, aromatic flavour to salads, salsas, and many other dishes - unless you're one of the heathens who find it leans more soap than herb! 

Parsley

Parsley is an herb that adds flavour to many dishes and is also a rich source of chlorophyll. It can be used as a garnish or included in salads, smoothies, and various recipes.

Incorporating these chlorophyll-rich foods into your diet not only provides the benefits of this green pigment but also ensures a diverse range of nutrients that contribute to overall health and wellbeing. Try this delicious parsley, spinach + feta bake!

Spinach, Feta, and Parsley Egg Bake

Ingredients:

• 8 large eggs
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1/4 cup red capsicum, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup milk (dairy or plant-based)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for greasing 

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 190C or 375F, then grease a baking dish (approximately 8x8 inches) with olive oil.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs and milk until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Add the chopped spinach, crumbled feta, fresh parsley, cherry tomatoes, red capsicum, and red onion to the egg mixture. Stir until the ingredients are evenly distributed.
4. Pour the egg and vegetable mixture into the greased baking dish, spreading it evenly.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the eggs are set and the top is golden brown.
6. To check for doneness, insert a toothpick into the centre. If it comes out clean, the egg bake is ready.
7. Allow the egg bake to cool for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with additional fresh parsley if desired.
8. Serve and Enjoy.

Need a little help getting your health back on track? Join us for the 8-Week Program and we’ll help you change the way you look at food – and that doesn’t mean you have to follow restrictive diets or miss out on your favourite foods; we believe you can still enjoy delicious food without jeopardising your health. With celebrity chef Sarah Glover on our panel of experts, you’ll have an array of fun recipes at your fingertips, along with our own exclusive armoury of simple, tasty and healthy recipes for everything from daily meals to impressive entertaining. We know it can be hard to stick to your health goals – especially when you’re trying to manage it alone. When you sign up with us, you’ll have access to clear-cut meal plans, community support and exclusive access to our sugar-free content. Here’s what’s on offer:

1. 8 weeks of meal plans and shopping lists.

2. 90+ member-only recipes.
3. Community forums to share your journey.
4. Support and guidance from the I Quit Sugar team.
5. Exclusive content from our panel of experts.

So, if you’re ready to ditch sugar and the host of maladies that come with it, it’s not too late to join. We’d love to help you get started on your health journey. Sign up HERE today!