Chlorophyll is the green pigment that makes green leaves green. And when we eat leafy greens, it turns out, an amazing thing happens.
In fact, this scientific finding is so amazing it blew Dr. Michael Greger’s mind.
An Incredible Way You Can Get CoQ10 from Food
A common belief is that because our bodies lack chlorophyll, we cannot convert sunlight into energy directly. However, science is discovering something else.
After eating greens, we have chlorophyll in our bloodstream, and this chlorophyll may react with sunlight that penetrates through our skin.
When this happens, it seems our body is able to create Coenzyme Q10 (CoQ10) naturally.
What is CoQ10? And How Does It Help You?
Coenzyme Q10 helps generate energy in every cell in your body.
This essential element is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory that defends cells from damage caused by harmful free radicals.
It’s particularly beneficial for heart health. And health conditions, including heart disease, brain disorders, diabetes, and cancer, have been linked to low levels of this compound.
CoQ10 is produced in the human body. But levels of CoQ10 decrease as we age.
What You Should Take Away from This Finding
As Dr. Greger says, the best way to maintain your level of CoQ10 may be to eat more plant-based, chlorophyll-rich diets.
And eating leafy greens and getting a healthy amount of sun exposure may help you get the most benefits.
If you want, you can watch the video from Dr. Greger for a full explanation of this fascinating finding.
(He starts talking about it at 2:30 in the video you can see here. Or you can read the video transcript here.)