Complete Guide to Wheatgrass – Awesome Superfood or Over-hyped Lawn Trimming
Everyone is raving about wheatgrass – a type of green that supposedly contains amazing benefits for your entire body, but is this fact or fiction?
Because if you told me to eat grass to improve my wellbeing, I’m likely to direct you to the nearest help center. Keep reading to learn the truth about wheatgrass and whether or not that shot of green lawn cutting is worth getting.
What is Wheatgrass?
Wheatgrass is a green powder from the dehydration and pulverization of the Triticum aestivum plant, so we can’t go grab any old random trimmings from the lawn. It can be consumed fresh but also comes in a powdered form.
Many fans claim it is the ultimate staple in the journey to wellness and that it contains many vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that can increase overall health.
Nutrition
It is composed of around 17 types of amino acids, more than 90 minerals, about 30 enzymes, and 70 % chlorophyll. This grass has a diversity of nutritional components including iron, calcium, magnesium, phytonutrients, and proteins. Wheatgrass contains vitamins C, E, and K, as well as most of the B complex vitamins.
What are Some Claims made by Wheatgrass Fans?
Health enthusiasts who swear by wheatgrass often state it can combat colds, coughs, fever, and poor digestion, and treat skin conditions.
Some of these claims are only anecdotal; there is no evidence that wheatgrass treats a fever or cough. However, don’t throw away that juiced grass yet; there is evidence that it can help the body improve, slowly but surely. Studies have found that it does help digestion, raise overall health, and may in fact have incredible anti-cancer properties.
Science-based Benefits
The high content of different nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins will always improve how the body functions. The nutritional value can strengthen the immune system, which can help prevent colds and illnesses.
There are indeed digestive benefits to wheatgrass. Studies have found that it can help reduce inflammation of the colon. These same anti-inflammatory properties can help treat symptoms of arthritis.
The high levels of enzymes may also help increase your absorption of food, leading to improved digestion and absorbed nutrition. Wheatgrass can also help in the detoxification of your body due to the nutrients and antioxidants found in it. Chlorophyll, for example, helps the liver function properly, in turn increasing detoxification and overall health.
Due to its high chlorophyll content, it may raise the body’s blood cell count, leading to improved oxygen levels, lower blood pressure, and increased energy.
Can Wheatgrass Really Prevent Cancer?
The jury is still in session but it looks promising.
A meta-analysis of studies has found that wheatgrass may prevent cancer, possibly due to it removing hazardous cells. Another study found that individuals who consumed wheatgrass while undergoing chemotherapy had lower negative side effects and reduced toxicity levels.
The high levels of nutrition and antioxidants may also help prevent cancer while improving the immune system to prevent disease.
Side Effects
There are little to no side effects to drinking wheatgrass, particularly when you follow the proper dosage. This is usually 1 to 4 ounces. In the powdered form, the dosage is between 3 to 5 grams (about 1 teaspoon). Side effects of over-consumption may include constipation, upset stomach, nausea, and headache.
The Takeaway
Health nuts have won this round. Wheatgrass provides incredible benefits to your overall health and wellbeing, and can potentially prevent cancer and disease. Incorporate it into your diet to experience these benefits, drinking it daily, or every other day. It is easy to grow on your own or buy in a powdered form.
Remember, health starts from the inside out; simple actions and habits can increase wellbeing one day at a time. Choose good, healthy ingredients, avoid ingredients that harm the body, and watch how your health improves!
