Wheatgrass is just the young grass of the wheat plant, Triticum aestivum. As wheatgrass itself cannot be eaten as it is tough to digest. Interestingly, it is quite easy to grow indoors and outdoors by putting wheat seeds in water and then harvesting the leaves.
It’s mostly consumed as a fresh juice, but it also comes in powdered form. Fresh wheatgrass juice is considered to be a living food due to its super-rich nutritional value
Health experts have long been highlighting the countless benefits of this plant and for good reason. It can be used as a daily health potion and may even help treat many health conditions. Though more research is needed to truly determine its efficiency, researchers have come to an agreement that wheatgrass has potential.
Read on to discover the possible healing benefits of wheatgrass:
· Wheatgrass is an Anti-Oxidant and Anti-Inflammatory
Many studies have shown that wheatgrass acts as an antioxidant due to its rich content of vitamins A, C, and E.
Antioxidants are known to reverse the effects of free radicals. These volatile compounds in the body have links to ageing and other health issues, including cancer. Antioxidants help fight chronic inflammation and even help with mental health concerns, such as depression.
· Cancer Prevention and Treatment
Antioxidants in wheatgrass supplements traditional cancer treatments. Few studies say that wheatgrass slows the growth of oral cancer and colon cancer and can also cause certain cancer cells to die.
Wheatgrass has also shown positive effects on chemotherapy. One study has found that wheatgrass can reduce major side effects associated with chemotherapy.
· Fighting Infections
Some research has found that wheatgrass can kill or slow the growth of certain micro-organisms causing infections. Hence this can be helpful in the treatment of infections that are resistant to antibiotics, or in people who are allergic to specific antibiotics.
A 2015 study on wheatgrass has antimicrobial properties that can fight certain types of infections, as well as some forms of bacteria called Lactobacillus. These bacteria play a role in many infections, including dental infections.
· Treats Gastrointestinal Disorders
Traditional medicine practitioners have long used wheatgrass to reduce stomach pain and manage minor gastrointestinal issues, such as diarrhoea and indigestion. The inherited goodness of wheatgrass is due to its fibre content. Wheatgrass is gluten-free unlike other wheat products and it is tolerable, making it a good option for people with gluten intolerance.
Wheatgrass might be an alternative remedy for those who are not getting relief from traditional medicine.
· Preventing and Treating Diabetes
Research has found that wheatgrass is beneficial for those with diabetes and glucose intolerance. According to a study in the 2014 study, it was found that wheatgrass could stabilize insulin and manage blood glucose levels. By fighting inflammation, it also helps to reduce the symptoms of diabetes.
· Nutritional Breakdown
Wheatgrass is low in calories and also a good source of protein but not a complete protein. It is also an excellent source of fibre just like other plant-based foods, which in turn can help reduce blood glucose. Wheatgrass can also support healthy digestion and give satiety longer than they usually would.
Wheatgrass has a rich nutritional value of vitamins A, C, E, and K, and of vitamin B6, zinc, iron, selenium, and manganese
Risks & Allergies
People allergic to any type of grasses may also be allergic to wheatgrass. Similarly, due to cross-contamination and cross-pollination, it is highly possible for wheatgrass to contain the pollen of other plants. People with any kind of plant allergies should consult a doctor before trying wheatgrass.
Some may experience nausea or constipation after consuming wheatgrass, which could be due to its high fibre content. Anyone with a history of constipation should consult the doctor before trying wheatgrass.
If planning to consume wheatgrass supplements, buy only from a trusted source like the one at our NutraC Health and Supplements Store. Walk into our store and to know the best brand and the steps to consider before starting with this supplement
Takeaway Tips
Because many people tolerate wheatgrass well, it is safe to use alongside other treatments. Nobody should take wheatgrass as a substitute for medical treatment. To test and feel the benefits of wheatgrass, try a daily dose of wheatgrass juice or add it in a smoothie or supplement.
AUTHOR:
Ashwini Sagar is a renowned diet and nutritional consultant. She has been in this field for more than a decade now. During all these years, she has developed brilliant expertise in this field and comes up with the best possible diet plans. She possesses the ability to communicate complex and sensitive information about dietary matters in an understandable form to individuals. She has a proven track record of successfully promoting healthy eating habits and suggesting diet modifications.
Ashwini is available of nutrition consultations at NutraC on prior appointments.
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