Chlorophyll: The New Celery Juice?

Q & A with Lisa Moskovitz, RD, CEO of NYNG

1- Do you think taking liquid Chlorophyll drops in water provides benefits?

Chlorophyll drops are trending and there is a good reason why. This natural compound, derived from green plants, does have protective benefits including cancer prevention. Most of the benefits are attributed to the high antioxidant properties. Other impressive, less substantiated, claims include weight loss, neutralizing body odors, treating acne, wound healing, boosting energy, and supporting the immune system. The major question is are you acquiring that much more benefit from taking chlorophyll in supplement form versus eating more green veggies? Studies are limited and most of the research needs further refining.

There are simply not enough human trials to prove the plethora of marketed claims regarding chlorophyll supplements. Most experts agree that it is not necessary and one can easily get enough antioxidants, or nutrients, from diet alone.

2- Are there any negative effects of Chlorophyll supplements? What should people look out for?

There is always a risk to taking supplements, especially if you have any medical conditions or are taking prescription medications. Supplements aren't regulated by the FDA. Generally, Chlorophyll supplements are safe to consume and pose little to no harm. Some people may experience digestive discomfort, but it is not commonly reported and depends on the dosage as well as other factors

3- What would you tell a client who was interested in trying Chlorophyll?

My first response would be "why?" What do you think it will help you with? If you're taking it for a certain reason, especially weight loss, it probably won't be the only change you need to make to reach a specific goal. If you just want to boost your health or enhance your self-care routine, that is another story. Either way, whatever results you achieve from taking these supplements will only last as long as you continue to take them. It is a long-term commitment.

4- Are there any specific health concerns you would recommend Chlorophyll as a supplement for?

Considering the lack of scientific data, I wouldn't recommend it to anyone who wasn't already asking about it. I don't think it is the miracle cure it is made out to be. However, Chlorophyll supplements for cancer prevention does have the most compelling evidence.

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