The Top 15 Benefits of Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a superfood with incredible health benefits. When taken as a general health supplement, wheatgrass may aid in treating certain diseases, and is an important ingredient in Ensō Superfoods powders. Studies have found that taking wheatgrass alongside chemotherapy can potentially enhance the effects of chemotherapy and reduce side effects. It may also have positive effects on conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, ulcerative colitis, blood disorders, diabetes, obesity, and issues related to too much stress on the body. 

Wheatgrass is a highly nutritious plant that is rich in a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. According to a study published in the Journal of Food Science and Technology, wheatgrass is a good source of vitamins A, C, E, K, and B vitamins, as well as minerals such as potassium, iron, and phosphorus, as well as enzymes and amino acids. 

One of the most notable nutritional components of wheatgrass is chlorophyll, which has been found to have a number of potential health benefits. For example, a study in the Journal of Medicinal Food suggests that chlorophyll may help inhibit hunger, fight bad breath, reverse the effects of aging, cleanse the blood, and even prevent cancer. Wheatgrass is particularly rich in chlorophyll, with up to 70% of the plant consisting of this nutrient. Additionally, wheatgrass contains these nutrients in an optimally balanced ratio, making it a highly beneficial supplement to include in one's diet.

Top Benefits of Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has been found to possess a number of potential health benefits due to its antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

A study published in the Journal of Biologically Active Products from Nature suggests that the high levels of antioxidants present in wheatgrass may help to protect the body against harmful toxins, reactive oxygen species and free radicals which can lead to oxidative stress, and over time, the development of chronic diseases such as cancer. The study also suggests that wheatgrass have anti-inflammatory and anti-cancer properties.

Lowers Cholesterol

According to animal studies, wheatgrass may help lower cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart disease. Wheatgrass has also proved to lower LDL cholesterol and triglycerides in a manner comparable to that of the standard cholesterol-lowering drug, atorvastatin. Although the findings are encouraging, further research on humans is necessary.

Reduces Inflammation

According to some research, wheatgrass may help reduce chronic inflammation, lowering your risk of acquiring diseases like cancer and heart disease. Consuming a half-cup of wheatgrass juice daily for a month helped people with ulcerative colitis experience less bleeding.

Other studies also show that the chlorophyll in wheatgrass may help to lessen inflammation in the body.

Boosts Immune System

The potential of wheatgrass to increase red blood cells in the body makes it an excellent immune booster, and this is one of the most well-documented advantages of wheatgrass. In a 2004 study published in the Indian Pediatrics journal, wheatgrass supports red blood cells so potently that it helps patients require fewer transfusions.

Give your immune system a boost by taking a wheatgrass drink when you are especially prone to the flu, the cold, or other infections. An immune system that is in good shape can hasten your recovery. Moreover, you probably feel better when your immunity is operating at its best.

Stabilizes Red Blood Cells

According to studies in children and youngsters, consuming wheatgrass juice daily may help stabilize red blood cells. The trial participants were dependent on routine blood transfusions. This was due to a genetic disorder that results in the breakdown of red blood cells, 

Individuals who regularly drank wheatgrass juice required fewer blood transfusions, and they also had longer intervals between transfusions. According to the authors, the antioxidant in wheatgrass juice contributed to the results by extending the lifespan of red blood cells.

Helps with Type 2 Diabetes

Studies show that wheatgrass lowers blood sugar levels in animals with Type II diabetes. The study revealed that wheatgrass increased insulin levels and reduced blood sugar. That particular outcome happened because wheatgrass contains substances that act similarly to insulin, lowering foods' glycemic index and resulting in stable blood sugar levels.

Inflammation may also contribute to diabetes, according to experts. Wheatgrass has anti-inflammatory properties that may aid in diabetes management and some complications.

Helps Prevent Cancer

Wheatgrass may aid in the prevention of cancer due to its antioxidant characteristics. According to some research, it can help destroy cancer cells. In trials utilizing wheatgrass juice on colon and oral cancer cells, wheatgrass increased cancer cell death and delayed cancer cell development. 

It Helps Reduce the Adverse Effects of Cancer Treatment

You may take wheatgrass, besides other cancer prescription drugs. Wheatgrass may help lessen cancer treatments' harmful side effects, particularly nausea. 

Wheatgrass may also suppress the development of oral cancer cells. A human trial on colon cancer patients showed that wheatgrass juice helped boost immunity during cancer treatment.

Fights Infection

The chlorophyll in wheatgrass has antibacterial properties, which may aid in managing lesions or burns by protecting against infection. When applied topically, it may promote quicker wound recovery compared to silver sulfadiazine. Wheatgrass therapy also lowers the amount of pain patients experience while they recover.

Research also suggests that wheatgrass juice may aid in treating antibiotic-resistant diseases.

Can Boost Mental Performance

The vitamin B complex in wheatgrass helps manage anxiety and improve mental health. A 2010 laboratory study on rats found that the fiber in wheatgrass may help guard against Alzheimer's disease development.

Wheat grass benefits also include enhanced hand-eye coordination and prevention of memory loss.

Aids in digestion

Wheatgrass has enzymes that aid in the digestion of food and facilitate nutrient absorption. 

The fiber in wheatgrass also aids with the digestion of food, waste removal, and nutrition intake.

Wheatgrass may also aid your body's detoxification process, reducing gas, bloating, and stomach upset. Instead of taking antacids to treat heartburn or indigestion, try wheatgrass.

Fights Bowel Inflammation

Wheatgrass reduces intestinal inflammation in those with Inflammatory Bowel Disease. Wheatgrass supplementation may also reduce overall illness and lessen the degree of rectal bleeding.

Boosts Fertility

According to a recent study, wheatgrass may aid in successful pregnancy attempts.

Dr. Yasuo Hotta, a University of California biologist, says wheatgrass includes P4D1, a compound that affects sperm cells and DNA, ultimately boosting fertility.

Moreover, all the benefits of wheatgrass we have learned so far, including its ability to boost blood supply and immunity and ward off harmful toxins, may help foster the ideal pregnancy conditions.

Stimulate Circulation

Wheatgrass can help athletes boost the quantity of oxygen in their blood, making it an excellent way to improve circulation. One study discovered that ingesting wheatgrass 20 minutes before exercise increased the number of oxygenated red blood cells. Additionally, this resulted in enhanced oxygen recovery following training. 

Aids In Weight Loss

Regular wheatgrass consumption stimulates the thyroid gland, improving metabolism. Wheatgrass also boosts energy, complementing your weight-loss plan by giving you the vital stamina you need. Wheatgrass is rich in nutrients and reduces cravings. Taking a wheatgrass supplement each morning could help you avoid overeating all day.

Makes Hair Healthier

Wheatgrass helps eliminate dead skin cells from the scalp and encourages hair growth when consumed regularly or applied topically. Improve your shampoo by adding a teaspoon of powder to strengthen the roots and repair hair damage.

Apply wheatgrass powder mixed with water to treat dandruff or dry, itchy scalp. There are also studies in progress on wheatgrass' potential to stop hair from graying.

How to Take Wheatgrass

You can grow wheatgrass at home or buy it from the grocery section of most stores. To consume, you can add wheatgrass to your preferred smoothie or juice.

Furthermore, you can buy wheatgrass powder or capsules. If you don't like the wheatgrass flavor, mix it with juices and smoothies or swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water.

Wheatgrass can have an overwhelming flavor. You could try combining it with these recipes to help balance the flavor:

• Salad dressings
• Dips like guacamole and hummus
• Fruity cocktails or mocktails
• Cupcake frosting or chocolate truffles 
• Soups

Wheatgrass Nutrition in Each Serving

AN 8-gram organic wheatgrass powder includes the following, according to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA):

• 25 calories worth of energy
• One-gram protein
• 6 grams of carbohydrates, or 2% adult's daily value (DV)
• 4 g, or 14% DV of fiber
• 24 milligrams of calcium
• 1 milligram or 6% DV of iron
• Vitamin K 86 micrograms, or 70% DV

Factors to Keep in Mind

Although using wheatgrass is generally regarded as safe, you could occasionally experience:

• Constipation
• Appetite loss
• Nausea

You may need to consider these other matters as well:

Prenatal Concerns

Bacteria that could harm an unborn child may be present in wheatgrass. The reason is that wheatgrass grows in soil or water, and we consume it raw. Therefore, pregnant or nursing women should refrain from consuming wheatgrass.

Gluten-Related Issues

Wheatgrass is a newly sprouted wheat plant that is gluten-free. However, gluten is present in wheat plant seed kernels. If trimmed at the appropriate time, wheatgrass should not have gluten. However, there is a potential for cross-contamination. Gluten-sensitive people should, therefore, buy their wheatgrass from certified gluten-free producers.

Wheatgrass Is Not A Substitute for Medical Care

Wheatgrass may help with various health issues, and evidence supports this. However, it shouldn't take the place of medical treatment. Always consult your physician first if you experience any health issues.

Final Thoughts

Wheat grass benefits have become increasingly popular recently, and health enthusiasts continue praising it for its many advantages. It is advisable to replace sugar, salt, and fat with nourishing, wholesome foods.

We seek inspiration from nature in our never-ending effort to lead healthy lifestyles. Try Ensō Supergreens made from organic plants for your healthiest self.