Why is wheatgrass so healthy

Wheatgrass fans say that its rich nutrient content boosts immunity, kills harmful bacteria in the digestive system, and rids the body of wastes. However, there are no significant research studies to support these claims. Some proponents tout wheatgrass as a treatment for cancer and chemotherapy side effects, anemia, diabetes, infections, ulcerative colitis, and joint pain, among other health concerns.

However, there are few research studies about wheatgrass, so it's difficult to assess such health claims. Wheatgrass is generally considered safe. It may cause nausea, anorexia and constipation. However, if you are allergic to wheat or grass, or have celiac disease or gluten intolerance, check with your doctor before using wheatgrass. Wheatgrass is usually grown in soil or water and consumed raw, which means it could be contaminated with bacteria or mold. If you're pregnant or breast-feeding, don't use wheatgrass.

Wheatgrass isn't a miracle cure and shouldn't replace regular medical care or a healthy diet that includes plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables. But used sensibly and in moderation, wheatgrass may add interest to your diet.

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A single copy of these materials may be reprinted for noncommercial personal use only. This site complies with the HONcode standard for trustworthy health information: verify here. This content does not have an English version. This content does not have an Arabic version. Wheatgrass is available in many different forms. Powders, capsules, and tablets are all available, made with dehydrated or freeze-dried wheatgrass.

While these products are definitely easier to use, it's always best to have the fresh product. You can purchase it in stores, or even grow it yourself. Cut wheatgrass can be placed into an airtight container and survive about seven to eight days in the refrigerator.

Juice it right before you drink it for maximum health benefits keep scrolling to see our recipe for improved wheatgrass smoothie. Wheatgrass consumption goes way back, some 5, years to ancient Egyptian and Mesopotamian civilizations. American agricultural chemist Dr. Charles Schnabel compared wheatgrass to other nutrient-dense vegetables, like spinach, broccoli, and alfalfa, and found wheatgrass to be dramatically superior in improving the health of livestock.

One of his most famous studies centered on the livelihood and egg output of hens. When Schnabel received the hens, they were sick and dying. Schnabel restored their health by feeding them a mixture of fresh cut, young oat grasses and greens. On July 31, , his efforts proved fruitful — he got eggs from hens; a remarkable feat, considering that hens generally lay a maximum of one egg per day.

In the s, Lithuanian-American nutritionist and whole-foods advocate Ann Wigmore began to juice wheatgrass. It is said that Wigmore turned her hair from dark grey to jet black in her late years by way of her wheatgrass-fueled dietary protocol; she even gave locks away to be tested, showing that her hair color was entirely natural. Later, Wigmore would form the Hippocrates Health Institute in Boston, where she would educate thousands on the benefits of wheatgrass and plant-based living.

She died at the ripe old age of 84 from smoke inhalation. Many people today attribute her long life to wheatgrass benefits — and hope to reap the same for themselves. The naturally alkaline combo is a concentrated source of nutrients like vitamin C, B5, B6, B12, and zinc. Amazing Grass. This certified organic, whole leaf wheatgrass powder stands out from other brands in that it is field grown and locally dehydrated; many other products are produced entirely in a warehouse.

Green Vibrance. Green Vibrance is a popular greens powder made by Vibrant Health, which also sells blends for liver health, skeletal health, and even a digestive health blend boasting a dozen different kinds of probiotic bacteria.

The Green Vibrant blend is made with certified organic wheat, oat, and barley grass as well as certified organic kale, spinach, and parsley and adaptogens like eleuthero. Antioxidants in the form of natural fruit powders finish off this blend nicely. Pure Synergy. The company also sells a Greens Blend with wheatgrass, barleygrass, spirulina, chlorella, and hemp protein powder.

Navitas Organics. Navitas Organics formerly Navitas Naturals rests on strong pillars when it comes to its superfood products: organic, fair-trade, sustainable ingredients are on the menu, hailing from farms with green business practices and a respect for traditional farming. Add wheatgrass powder or juice to your morning smoothie for an extra health kick to get your day off to the right start.

Just add one teaspoon of wheatgrass powder or one ounce of wheatgrass juice to each serving. Whip up a warm cup of mushroom magic to help reduce stress, regulate the immune system, and stay healthy. This Mushroom latte is the new tonic of choice.

Chef Marco Canora of NYC's Brodo swears by this combo of ginger, turmeric, black pepper, oregano, and rich homemade bone broth. Upgrade traditional mashed potatoes with these turmeric and garlic mashed sweet potatoes for a healthier, more nutritious version of the classic.

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Wheatgrass may have anti-inflammatory properties, according to the research mentioned earlier. This may help ease some of the symptoms of arthritis, such as stiffness, pain, and swelling. It may result in less discomfort and improved function. You should purchase wheatgrass only from a trusted supplier, such as a reputable health store. Talk with an associate to ensure that the plants were grown and cleaned properly.

This helps to eliminate the possibility of harmful bacteria and mold. When you first start taking wheatgrass, begin with a small dose and gradually increase your intake to meet the recommended dose. This will help your body adjust to digesting wheatgrass.

A typical liquid dose is anywhere from 1 to 4 ounces, or about 2 shots. The usual powdered dose is 3 to 5 grams, or about 1 teaspoon. Drinking an 8-ounce cup of water after taking wheatgrass can help reduce your risk for side effects. Allergic reactions are possible in some people, especially those who are allergic to wheat or grass.

It may also affect you differently if you have a blood disorder, celiac disease, or a gluten intolerance. The review of studies mentioned earlier suggests that wheatgrass has anticancer potential. This could be because wheatgrass kills off certain cells. When used alongside conventional cancer treatment, wheatgrass may boost the immune system and help the body to detox. Larger studies are needed to confirm these findings. A study found that wheatgrass has an inhibitory effect on proliferation of cells in oral cancer.

This means it may stop the cells from multiplying and spreading. It may be due to its high chlorophyll content. Wheatgrass may also lower myelotoxicity that is caused by chemotherapy. Myelotoxicity reduces bone marrow function and can increase your risk for infection. A review also shows that wheatgrass has antioxidant properties that may help prevent cancer. The high nutritional value of wheatgrass helps to build a strong immune system, which is thought to keep the body healthy and free of disease.

To make the most of these benefits, try taking a serving of wheatgrass every day or every other day. Pay attention to any changes that you notice in your body. You may wish to take notes at the end of each day to help map when you experience side effects or when you see other impact, such as an increase in energy. Your doctor may also be able to recommend specific changes in diet or routine. Related Are all these matcha tea benefits for real? Wheatgrass is all the rage these days.

This article examines 7 benefits of wheatgrass that are backed by science. Yeah, we know — the thought of shooting down wheatgrass is usually not a pleasant one.