The mantra "eat your greens" is a cornerstone of healthy living advice, highlighting the essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber found in green vegetables and fruits. These components are crucial for maintaining a healthy lifestyle. However, in today's fast-moving world, there's a constant search for a nutritional shortcut that can deliver these benefits more conveniently. Enter liquid chlorophyll, which has emerged as a popular wellness trend. Touted by celebrities and influencers on social media for its wide array of health benefits, including boosting energy levels and its cancer-fighting properties, this drink has sparked interest and debate. But is it truly the miracle supplement many claim it to be? This article delves into whether liquid chlorophyll can stand up to the claims and examines if it's the modern equivalent of green juice.
What Is Liquid Chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is the green, photosensitive pigment in plants that helps them prepare food.
It contains vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
For this reason, it is said to be therapeutic for the body.
The best way to experience the health benefits of chlorophyll is by eating your greens.
However, there are several supplements containing chlorophyll available for consumption.
They contain chlorophyllin, a semi-synthetic form of chlorophyll, and are available in liquid, powder, and tablet forms.
The liquid version of chlorophyllin supplements is called liquid chlorophyll.
Chlorophyll supplements may be more effective because chlorophyll in plants may not survive digestion or be adequately absorbed.
Besides chlorophyllin, chlorophyll supplements also contain copper and magnesium.
7 Health Benefits Of Liquid Chlorophyll
Liquid chlorophyll is marketed as the next best thing among nutritional supplements due to its potential health benefits.
Here are some possible health benefits:
Anti-cancer Properties
Liquid chlorophyll is said to be a good source of antioxidants, which helps fight against oxidative damage. This has been linked to anti-cancer properties. However, no human studies have validated this.
Boosting Immune System
Studies suggest that chlorophyll may help improve white blood cell production, which is the cornerstone of our bodies' immune system.
Skin Healing
The synthetic form, chlorophyllin, has shown possible wound-healing effects by reducing inflammation and bacterial growth on the site of injury.
Natural deodorizer
The mechanism behind this property is unclear. By fixing the digestive system, it may reduce both bad breath and body odor. However, no studies support this claim.
Boosting Digestion
Liquid chlorophyll may have a positive effect on the gut bacteria and hence may boost the digestion process. Further, it can also increase the frequency of bowel movements, which may be particularly useful for those suffering from constipation.
Are The Health Benefits Scientifically Backed?
Despite the several claims about the health benefits of liquid chlorophyll, it is important to understand that there is minimal evidence to back them.
Research has been primarily done on its topical use, and some studies have shown that it may be useful in acne treatment.
However, according to experts, more studies are required to make definitive recommendations.
Further, no amount of liquid chlorophyll can replace a healthy diet that includes adequate portions of leafy greens, fruits, whole grains, and healthy fats.
How To Take Chlorophyll?
Powder Vs. Liquid Form
Chlorophyll liquid supplements are better than other forms, like tablets and powder, as they are absorbed by the body more easily.
Though consuming it has no significant risks, some people may experience nausea or diarrhea.
Always consult with your doctor before taking liquid chlorophyll or chlorophyll supplements.
Chlorophyll Supplements
Chlorophyll supplements are available in liquid, tablet, and powder forms.
These supplements are available in a wide range of strength and formulations.
Chlorophyll supplements are usually safe and have the recommended dosage mentioned on their packaging.
If you experience any reaction or side effects from the chlorophyll supplements, discontinue them and consult your doctor immediately.
How Often Should You Take Liquid Chlorophyll?
There is no recommended dosage or frequency of taking liquid chlorophyll.
What To Avoid When Taking Chlorophyll?
If you are taking liquid chlorophyll, avoid taking the following medications:
- Photosensitizing drugs (medications that increase sensitivity to sunlight): Medications that increase the sensitivity to sunlight
- Methotrexate (a drug used in chemotherapy): Chlorophyll slows down the elimination of methotrexate from the body. This increases methotrexate levels in blood and the risk of side effects.
Recommended Dosage
Since there is limited research on the consumption of liquid chlorophyll, there isn’t a recommended dosage.
Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2020-2025 says adults should consume 2 to 3 cups of vegetables daily.
Always consult your doctor for the recommended dosage for you.
Liquid chlorophyll is available in bottles.
Depending on your chosen brand, the method of consumption may vary.
Some brands recommend you take the liquid directly from the bottle, while others may require you to mix the supplement with water or juice.
Is Liquid Chlorophyll Safe?
Liquid chlorophyll and other forms of chlorophyll supplements have been used for several decades.
No significant side effects have been reported so far.
Researchers have not found toxic effects of chlorophyll on humans but recommend moderate consumption.
Side Effects Or Risks Of Liquid Chlorophyll
A few side effects that may occur in some individuals include:
- Mild stomach ache
- Gastrointestinal issue flare-up
- Discolored poop (usually green in color)
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Photosensitivity
Who Should Not Take Liquid Chlorophyll?
Liquid chlorophyll may interact with some medications and nutritional supplements.
Though there is no list of drug interactions with liquid chlorophyll, always inform your doctor about all the medicines you are taking.
This will help your doctor determine if liquid chlorophyll is safe for you.
Also, there is limited research on its effects on pregnant and breastfeeding women.
So, if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, check with your healthcare provider before consuming it.
Does Liquid Chlorophyll Expire?
Since liquid chlorophyll is semi-synthetic in nature, it does expire.
Always check the bottle and/or product packaging for the product's expiry date.
Alternatives To Liquid Chlorophyll
The best alternative to liquid chlorophyll is consuming green vegetables rich in the pigment.
A few vegetables that are rich in chlorophyll include:
- Spinach
- Kale
- Green beans
- Peas
Besides chlorophyll, these green vegetables are rich in fiber, vitamins, and minerals sources.
Summary
- Plants can prepare their food with the help of a green pigment called chlorophyll.
- The synthetic version of chlorophyll, chlorophyllin, in its liquid form, is called liquid chlorophyll.
- Its potential benefits include skin healing, boosting digestion, deodorizing, and reducing inflammation. Most of these benefits, however, do not have sufficient scientific backing.
- Though it's largely safe, liquid chlorophyll can cause nausea and digestive trouble in some. Further, it may react with other substances. Please consult your doctor before using it.
- No amount of liquid chlorophyll can replace a healthy diet.
- The best alternative to chlorophyll supplements is eating your daily portion of greens.
References
- https://www.healthline.com/health/liquid-chlorophyll-benefits-risks
- https://www.forbes.com/health/supplements/liquid-chlorophyll-benefits/
- https://www.mdanderson.org/cancerwise/what-are-the-benefits-of-drinking-chlorophyll-6-things-to-know.h00-159460056.html
- https://www.osfhealthcare.org/blog/liquid-chlorophyll-the-miracle-green/
- https://www.eatingwell.com/article/8045171/chlorophyll-benefits/
- https://www.health.com/nutrition/is-it-safe-to-drink-liquid-chlorophyll
- https://health.clevelandclinic.org/are-there-health-benefits-to-using-liquid-chlorophyll
