From childhood, we’ve been urged to “eat your greens,” but now social media insists we “drink our greens.” These green juices, favored by beauty and health influencers, promise benefits like clear skin, a flat stomach, and silky hair. But what are these ‘green elixirs’ exactly?

The Hype Around Green Juices

Green juices come in various recipes, each going viral on social media, making them popular among those looking to improve their diet. People often associate green-colored food with health, adding to their appeal.

India Today consulted experts about three popular green juice recipes to determine if they live up to the social media buzz.

1. Chlorophyll Water

Chlorophyll water is a favorite among beauty influencers for its acne-fighting properties. It can be purchased pre-made or in drop form to mix with water. Experts agree on its benefits:

• Health Benefits: Dr. Monica Bambroo from Artemis Hospital highlights that chlorophyll can improve skin health, reduce body odor, and act as an antioxidant. It contains vitamins A, C, E, and K, all beneficial for overall health.
• Digestive Health: Rashi Tantia from Metro Hospital notes that chlorophyll water promotes healthy gut bacteria and contains anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties, aiding in acne treatment.

Caution: Excessive consumption may cause digestive upset like diarrhea or nausea. Additionally, there are limited studies on chlorophyll’s long-term effects.

2. Matcha

If you aspire to be the next “It Girl,” matcha is essential. Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder from Japan, has gained popularity over traditional lattes, thanks to social media.

Benefits:

• A 2023 study suggests matcha can reduce stress and anxiety, and improve memory and cognitive function.

Side Effects: While generally safe in moderation, excessive matcha consumption can lead to headaches, diarrhea, and insomnia due to its caffeine content.

3. Celery Juice

For those who find matcha’s taste unpleasant or chlorophyll water too expensive, celery juice is an appealing alternative. Celery, known as ‘Apium graveolens,’ is readily available and affordable.

Claimed Benefits:

• Acne reduction
• Inflammation reduction
• Skin hydration and glow

Expert Opinions:

• Rashi Tantia: Drinking celery juice on an empty stomach in the morning can keep your skin moisturized and healthy, thanks to its vitamins A, C, and K.
• Dr. Bambroo: Celery juice, like other green juices such as kale or spinach juice, is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, promoting better skin health. Its high water content and anti-inflammatory properties can reduce skin inflammation and enhance complexion.

Important Note: Dr. Bambroo cautions that while green juices are healthy, they should not replace a balanced diet. Relying solely on juices without proper nutrition won’t yield long-term benefits. More scientific studies are needed to confirm these drinks’ effectiveness for weight loss and skin improvement.

In conclusion, while green juices may offer health benefits, they should be part of a balanced diet. Moderation is key, and it’s essential to consider comprehensive nutrition rather than relying solely on trendy health drinks.