“It makes my cells so stoked” says one creator on TikTok, enthusiastically showcasing her morning routine of putting 6 drops of a dark, green liquid into a tall glass of water.
Another creator reports that “this stuff is great for digestion, inflammation and overall immunity” as she swirls the dark green, opaque drink with a metal reusable straw.
This mesmerizing, dark green drink has liquid chlorophyll in it — and is the subject of the latest trend amongst Gen Z on TikTok.
What is chlorophyll?
Chlorophyll is the pigment that makes plants green and helps the plant perform photosynthesis, or the process of turning sunlight into sugar for plant energy.
As humans, we don’t rely on photosynthesis for energy, but rather food. That being said, chlorophyll is not an essential nutrient for human health.
It is impossible to be deficient in chlorophyll as our body does not have a need for it in the first place. In fact, our body doesn’t even have a receptor for chlorophyll.
Even if we needed it in small amounts, it is likely we already get enough chlorophyll from fruits and vegetables as it is the most abundant plant pigment on earth.
Chlorophyll is not an essential nutrient for human health
Does liquid chlorophyll get rid of acne?
Acne is caused by an overgrowth of certain types of bacteria on the skin. There is evidence to suggest that chlorophyll has anti-bacterial properties, so it could potentially improve acne.
However, the chlorophyll used in this study was in gel form and applied directly onto the skin. In the form of a liquid supplement, any potential anti-bacterial properties of chlorophyll will be destroyed by the stomach acid during digestion.
Is liquid chlorophyll good for weight-loss?
The only “evidence” that exists for chlorophyll and weight-loss exists on TikTok — and anecdotes aren’t evidence.
The only imaginable connection I can make here is the link between a diet high in vegetables and fruits (where green vegetables contain chlorophyll) and weight-loss.
Can liquid chlorophyll enhance energy levels?
The structure of chlorophyl is similar to hemoglobin, or the protein in our red blood cells that helps deliver oxygen to our cells. Problems with hemoglobin can lead to low energy levels in humans.
However, the atom in the centre of the chlorophyll compound is magnesium, while the atom in the centre of hemoglobin is iron.
While low levels of iron, such as those with iron-deficient anemia will see a boost in energy levels from iron, the same thing can’t be said for the magnesium found in chlorophyll.
Can liquid chlorophyll reduce body odour?
A small study published over 40 years ago suggests that chlorophyll given to nursing home residents improved overall body odour, but not much research has been published since.
Body odour happens when bacteria mixes with sweat, which is why soap is effective in removing the bacteria. One study published in 1957 showed that chlorophyll has anti-bacterial properties, but similar to acne any anti-bacterial properties will be lost once the chlorophyll is digested by the stomach acid.
The bottom line
The evidence is ✨ extremely limited ✨
The only “evidence” we really have exists on 20 second TikTok videos. If you are seeing health benefits, its more likely due to increased water consumption or the placebo effect rather than liquid chlorophyll itself.
Eating your greens is more important than a supplement
Green vegetables are rich in chlorophyll as it is what makes the colour possible in the first place. Beyond chlorophyll, vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, water and fiber that will likely reap more health benefits than a concentrated supplement with little evidence.
Enjoy liquid chlorophyll if it helps you drink more water
If liquid chlorophyll encourages you to drink more water, then by all mean swirl away (just don’t exceed the maximum dosing as indicated by the manufacturer) as there doesn’t seem to be any evidence to avoid the supplements — it might just drain your pocket.
Article contributed by OpenSpace Clinic
Written by: Kristen Sunstrum, RD
Professional Dietitian
Kristen is a registered dietitian and member of the Ordre professionel des diététistes du Québec (OPDQ) and Dietitians of Canada. She obtained her B.Sc. in nutritional sciences from McGill University and completed various clinical internships, including specialties in gastrointestinal diseases (Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Crohns, Ulcerative Colitis), kidney disease, critical care and mental health. She has also provided nutrition counselling for general healthy eating, weight-loss and weight-gain.
Kristen’s approach to working with clients is a focus on personalized nutrition. Healthy eating goes beyond what’s on one’s plate, requiring a different approach for everyone. Her 100% virtual counselling sessions include a personalized artificial-intelligence food report, and utilizes these data-informed insights for the best nutritional care possible.
Feature image via Pinterest
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