Wheatgrass is the young grass of the wheat plant known as triticum aestivum. This edible grass is either in juice or powder form.
Wheatgrass can be consumed on its own or used in combination with other supplements or juices. There are several form of wheatgrass that are becoming more widely available and these include capsules, juice, powder, tablets and pills.
The best way to consume all foods is as close to their natural state as much possible. For wheatgrass, this means consuming it in juice form or shots as they are most commonly called.
Health Benefits of Wheatgrass:
1. Alkalizes the Body and Boost Nutrient Absorption
Wheatgrass provides essential alkalizing benefits for the body, along with increasing absorption of nutrients such as vitamin C, E and electrolytes. Creating an alkaline environment is important to prevent cancer and other chronic diseases from flourishing in your body as one get older,
Acidosis or the high levels of acid resulting from low alkalinity, is a common problem because of toxicity from the environment along the consumption of highly processed foods. Cancers and other diseases flourish in acidic environments, but it does not exist in alkaline ones.
Wheatgrass contains chlorophyll, which gives it the ability to prevent acidosis. Also chlorophyll has been shown to naturally help balance the body’s pH level and protect the cells as well.
2. Antioxidant Properties
Antioxidants help protect your body from free radicals, an unstable molecules that destroys healthy cells. Wheatgrass contains vitamins A, C and E which are considered to be potent antioxidants.
3. Cleanse the Liver
Wheatgrass is mostly known for its effects on the liver. The liver processes what the body ingests and with wheatgrass’ detoxifying properties, enzymes and nutrients, wheatgrass is able to restore and revitalize the liver.
A 2014 study published in the Journal of Membrane Biology, showed that wheatgrass consumption could help protect the liver against the detrimental effects of alcohol.
4. Digestive Relief
Wheatgrass is linked to an improved digestive system function and in preventing constipation. Also, it is used as treatment for IBS or irritable bowel syndrome and acid reflux disease, as per UCLA Brain Research Institute.
An article which was published in the “Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology” in April 2002 noted that wheatgrass seems to be a safe and effective treatment for certain gastrointestinal conditions.
5. Helps Lower Triglycerides and High Cholesterol
Wheatgrass is a medicinal plant for the nblood vessels and heart. It can be effective in treating hyperlipidemia. Also it helps lower triglyceride levels, high cholesterol and increases in inflammation and oxidative stress.
6. Immunity and Metabolism
Wheatgrass juice helps in boosting immunity, metabolism and is good for cholesterol and digestion.
7. Rich in Nutrients
Wheatgrass juice contains all minerals known to man, such as B-complex, vitamins A, C, E, l and K. It is rich in protein and contains 17 amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein.
8. Skin Cleanser
Wheatgrass juice is considered to be an excellent skin cleanser and can be absorbed through the skin for nutrition. Just pour green juice over your body in a tub of warm water. Then soak for 15 to 20 minutes. Then rinse off with cold water.
9. Weight Loss
Wheatgrass contains selenium, which is essential for the healthy functioning of the thyroid gland. Thyroid is one of your body’s natural weight management tool. To ensure that your thyroid is healthy, drink wheatgrass shot first thing in the morning.
10. Prevents Tooth Decay
Wheatgrass contains natural anti-bacterial properties that help increase mouth health and reduce the risk of gum inflammation and cavities.
Nutrients Found in Wheatgrass:
- Antioxidants like flavonoids and phenolic acid
- Amino Acids
- Chlorophyll
- Electrolytes including magnesium and calcium
- Iron
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Selenium
Precautions When Using Wheatgrass:
There have still not been many studies done which shows the possible interactions of wheatgrass or whether it might trigger allergies in some people.
Most of the wheatgrass benefits came from people who have used it and have attested to its positive affects. But, not every claim can be backed up yet with scientific studies. Therefore, it is best to use wheatgrass as part of a healthy and balanced diet and not in place of whole fruits and vegetables.
If you have known allergies to other grasses, wheat or other ingredients commonly found in supplements, always check with your doctor before using wheatgrass.