The aim of this study was to find out the possibility of the
metabolism of chlorophylls (Chls) in human. In the study, eight healthy
subjects were recruited, and one kg of fresh spinach was consumed by
each one. After 3 hours of consuming spinach, the blood sample from
each subject was collected and freeze-dried.The sample was then
extracted with acetone and concentrated, followed by analyzing
chlorophyll - related compounds (CRCs) using high performance liquid
chromatography. The results show that Pheophytin (Phe a) and
Pheophorbide (Pho a) are the major CRCs in human’s blood. Metabolism
and absorption in humans may be obtained by ingestion of chlorophylls.
Compared with other nutrients in mammal, the polarity of Chls is
relatively low. Therefore, Chls in mammal may be converted into Phes
and Phos, similar to lipid metabolic pathway. The ratio of Chl a and b
content in spinach is 2.5 to 1. Chls may be directly transformed to Phes
in human stomach under acid environment, and then transported to
liver and small intestine. Phes are further converted into Phos, and
released into the bloodstream, followed by transporting to other tissues
and organs in human.
This study confirmed that the chlorophyll obtained by ingestion
can be absorbed by human body. Phe and Pho are the two major CRCs
in blood. A research related to CRCs that play specific biological
functions and metabolic pathways in humans will be conducted in
the near future.
