Does singer Uhm Jung-hwa’s green juice really have health benefits?

Singer and actress Uhm Jung-hwa / Captured from YouTube

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Singer and actress Uhm Jung-hwa recently shared the recipe for the green juice she drinks every morning, saying it helps her stay energized and may support brain health and reduce inflammation.

In a recent video titled “Homebody Uhm Jung-hwa” on her YouTube channel “Umaizing Uhm Jung-hwa TV,” she revealed part of her daily routine.

After taking her supplements in the morning, Uhm said, “Another thing I make sure to have is green juice. It’s good for the brain and helps block inflammation,” adding that it would also make a great daily health drink for parents. She said the juice helps her feel more energetic throughout the day.

The green juice is a blend of coconut water, two stalks of celery, half an apple, two large kale leaves and lemon juice. So what are the actual health benefits of these ingredients?

The drink does contain several nutritious ingredients. Coconut water provides electrolytes such as potassium and magnesium. Potassium may help regulate blood pressure, while coconut water can be a lower-sugar alternative to sweetened beverages. However, there is limited evidence that it is necessarily healthier than plain water, and checking for added sugar is important.

Celery is high in water content and contains antioxidant compounds such as luteolin and apigenin. Some studies suggest these compounds may help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress. Apples contain pectin, a type of dietary fiber, and quercetin, an antioxidant that may support gut health and blood sugar control. Kale is rich in vitamins K and C, as well as lutein, which may help protect cells from oxidative damage. Lutein and folate, in particular, may support brain health and cognitive function. Lemon juice serves as a good source of vitamin C.

Uhm Jung-hwa pours her daily green juice into a glass. The drink is a blend of coconut water, lemon juice, kale leaves, apples and celery. Captured from Uhm's YouTube channel

That said, drinking this juice alone is unlikely to dramatically boost brain function or completely eliminate inflammation in the body. The Cleveland Clinic has noted, amid the celery juice trend, that celery juice “can be part of a healthy diet, but it is not a cure-all.”

People with kidney disease should also be cautious, as coconut water and kale are both high in potassium. Those with acid reflux or sensitive stomachs may experience worsened heartburn due to the lemon juice.

Add protein for a more balanced meal

To make the juice more nutritionally balanced, adding berries such as blueberries or strawberries can increase antioxidant intake. Small amounts of ginger or turmeric may also provide additional anti-inflammatory benefits. However, adding too much fruit can significantly increase sugar intake.

It is also better to blend the ingredients whole rather than juice them, since juicing removes much of the fiber. Experts recommend pairing the drink with protein-rich foods such as boiled eggs, Greek yogurt or tofu instead of relying on the juice alone for breakfast. Doing so may help improve fullness and support muscle health.

This article from Kormedi.com, Korea’s top health care and medical portal, is translated by a generative AI system and edited by The Korea Times.