Every party-goer knows the ordeal of the morning-after hangover – the head-pounding, stomach-churning, bleary-eyed sequel to a night of fun. You’ve probably tried several remedies, from the classic big breakfast to perhaps more unusual advice, like drinking chlorophyll water, a suggestion passed down through many families.
Chlorophyll water, for those unfamiliar, is purified water infused with chlorophyll – a compound responsible for giving plants their green color. Beyond being a critical player in photosynthesis, chlorophyll is also said to have multiple benefits for humans.
So, let’s dive into the green elixir of chlorophyll water and see whether it truly holds the magic formula to ease hangover woes.
Understanding Chlorophyll Water
Chlorophyll water, the vibrant green drink, is a treasure trove of antioxidants with vitamins K, C, and E. Lisa Samuels, RD, highlights, “Chlorophyll enhances digestion by boosting the beneficial bacteria in the digestive tract. It also carries antimicrobial properties, so it eliminates harmful bacteria while fostering the growth of healthy ones.” Additionally, chlorophyll is known to detoxify the liver, which aids in digestion.
However, experts suggest that the best way to consume chlorophyll might not be through water, but through its natural sources: dark leafy greens, broccoli, and wheatgrass. As Vikki Petersen, DC, CNN, CFMP, a certified functional medicine practitioner, puts it, “Actual vegetables, with their combination of fiber, phytonutrients, and antioxidants, are more beneficial than a chlorophyll tablet or powder.”
Chlorophyll Water for Hangovers: Yay or Nay?
If you’re looking for a tried-and-true hangover remedy, you might want to explore other options, as evidence supporting chlorophyll water as a hangover remedy remains inconclusive. However, Dr. Payam Vahedifar, a board-certified physician, argues there’s a possibility that chlorophyll water might help.
“Although chlorophyll might not directly affect alcohol metabolism, it carries an antioxidant effect that can help decrease inflammation,” Dr. Vahedifar states. He points out that chlorophyll helps reduce proinflammatory proteins, or cytokines, which contribute to hangover-induced discomfort.
Remember, moderation is crucial when consuming chlorophyll. Overconsumption can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, nausea, vomiting, bloating, or discolored stools. Stick to a maximum of 300 milligrams per day for safe intake.
Alternative Hangover Remedies
If you’re not sold on the idea of chlorophyll water as a hangover cure, here are four other expert-approved remedies:
- Rehydrate with Electrolytes: Alcohol consumption can lead to significant fluid loss and electrolyte imbalances. Rehydrating with an electrolyte drink can help restore these vital elements and alleviate hangover symptoms.
- Walk it Off: As tough as it may sound, a brisk walk can help speed up the rate at which your liver and kidneys process alcohol, aiding in lymphatic function, and potentially reducing hangover symptoms like a headache and water retention.
- Opt for Over-the-Counter Medications: In case your hangover is particularly stubborn, you might consider some OTC relief. However, it’s crucial to avoid Tylenol, which can stress your liver after a night of drinking. Instead, opt for NSAIDs, like ibuprofen or naproxen, and always take them with food.
- Prevention is Better than Cure: Ultimately, the most reliable way to avoid a hangover is to drink responsibly and moderately. Alternate between alcoholic beverages and water, and never drink on an empty stomach.
While the debate on chlorophyll water’s efficacy in battling hangovers continues, there’s no harm in giving this green elixir a shot, provided you consume it in moderation. After all, every hangover remedy was once a theory before it became a go-to solution!
