Dental trend spotlight:

Liquid chlorophyll

In plants, chlorophyll is the substance that helps harness energy from the sun and gives plants their radiant green color. Some people have started wondering whether chlorophyll can benefit them as well. Liquid chlorophyll is a popular trend in the wellness world, but what are its benefits and, more importantly, does it really work?

 

There’s still more research to be done, but here’s what the latest studies show about the potential pros and cons of drinking liquid chlorophyll.

 

Health claims

The supposed health benefits of liquid chlorophyll include everything from boosting energy to preventing cancer. Other advertised claims include:

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    Enhancing the immune system

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    Healing skin ailments

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    Improving the functionality of red blood cells

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    Reducing bad breath and body odor

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    Easing inflammation, especially in cases of arthritis

While most studies of chlorophyll’s health benefits don’t present enough evidence to support these claims, there’s some compelling evidence that chlorophyll may help heal skin. This includes acne, inflammation, sun damage, and wounds. That said, these studies found that topical chlorophyll treatments were more effective for treating skin than ingesting liquid chlorophyll. 

Possible side effects

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    Nausea

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    Vomiting, which can damage teeth

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    Stomach cramps and abdominal discomfort

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    Diarrhea

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    Itching or burning (in the case of topical treatments)

Though temporary and harmless, liquid chlorophyll may also turn your tongue, urine or stools green, yellow or black.

Is liquid chlorophyll worth the hype?

The verdict: While liquid chlorophyll is non-toxic, it isn’t regulated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It may have some yet-to-be-proven perks, but the best way to reap the rewards of chlorophyll is by watching your houseplants thrive on the windowsill. If you’re still hoping to harness plant power, you don’t have to turn to liquid chlorophyll to get it. Wheatgrass, parsley, alfalfa, arugula, seaweed, spinach, broccoli, brussels sprouts and other green veggies all pack a hefty load of chlorophyll, vitamins and nutrients that you can enjoy just by eating them.

If you do opt to try liquid chlorophyll, check with your physician before incorporating it into your diet.