Wheatgrass refers to the young grass of the common wheat plant, Triticum aestivum, that is harvested at an early stage of growth, typically before the wheat plant reaches the jointing stage. It is valued for its high nutritional content and potential health benefits.

Wheatgrass Nutritional Profile

Wheatgrass is made from the cotyledons (seed leaves) of the normal wheat plant Triticum aestivum. The difference between wheatgrass and wheat malt is that wheatgrass is left to grow for longer until it reaches the Jointing Stage, where it has peak nutritional value. It is then freeze-dried (i.e. at a low temp) or served fresh.

In comparison, standard wheat malt is harvested earlier and then dried at a higher temperature. Wheatgrass therefore manages to produce, and maintain, a highly nutritious content compared to normal wheat.

Wheatgrass Key Facts

Wheatgrass powder and juice have been shown to be a “complete” food meaning that it provides the body with almost all of the nutrients which is required for energy and survival. Only 140 g of wheatgrass can provide you with the same nutrients as 3 kgs of green, fresh vegetables.

knowledge.netWheatgrass is rich in; vitamins, enzymes, 19 different amino acids and chlorophyll. It contains; vitamin A, vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B7 (Biotin) and vitamin K. Wheatgrass is an excellent means of obtained beta carotene, which contains a number of B vitamins such as B6, B12 and folic acid.

90 minerals can be found in the wheatgrass including; potassium, magnesium, sodium, calcium and iron.

Wheatgrass possesses many different enzymes including; cytochrome oxidase, protease, amylase, transhydrogenase and lipase, all of which promote the breaking down of fats, weight loss and various biological functions.

30mls of wheatgrass juice has the same nutritional value of 1 kg of green leafy vegetables.

Wheatgrass contains large amounts of Chlorophyll.

Wheatgrass contains 19 different amino acids.

Health Benefits of Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is a nutrient-dense food that can be a valuable addition to a healthy diet.

Advocates of wheatgrass claim that it offers a wide range of health benefits, including; boosting immunity, improving digestion, detoxifying the body, promoting weight loss, reducing inflammation and increasing energy levels. Consumers of wheatgrass report that their levels of energy greatly increase, their skin clears up and illnesses, coughs and allergies are alleviated.

Let’s look at the health benefits of wheatgrass in more detail:

High Chlorophyll Content in Wheatgrass

One of the distinguishing features of wheatgrass is its high chlorophyll content, which gives it a vibrant green color. Chlorophyll is often referred to as “green blood” and is believed to have various health-promoting properties including detoxification, antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.

Numerous health experts have determined that the chlorophyll within the wheatgrass is practically identical to that of the hemoglobin which is found within the blood of a human. The only determined difference between the two is that chlorophyll’s central element consists of magnesium while hemoglobin’s is iron.

Because of the close similarities between the hemoglobin and the chlorophyll, the body is able to make hemoglobin from the chlorophyll with ease. This serves to increase the count of red blood cells so as to deliver oxygen as well as other nutrients more efficiently.

Studies have shown that chlorophyll is able to generate red blood cells, improve blood pressure through the dilation of veins, eliminate carbon dioxide, and increase metabolism. Along with the other benefits, the consumption of chlorophyll is a great way to obtain additional energy and alkalize the blood.

Wheatgrass Cleanses the Body

Wheatgrass is highly beneficial when it comes to cleansing the body. Several health benefits provided by wheatgrass is based upon the fact that it consists of living food.

Because it is antibacterial, the consumption of wheatgrass can detoxify both the blood and lymph cells as well as eliminate toxins and poisons from the body in an effective and efficient manner. The juice of wheatgrass allows the body to increase red blood cell production, thereby increasing oxygenation.

Wheatgrass provides the consumer with vitamin B, vitamin C and vitamin E, as well as carotene from vitamin A. These are all essential antioxidants which help eliminate free radicals from the body.

Wheatgrass is also known for its wonderful ability to cleanse the gastrointestinal tract, the blood, as well as the organs.

Because wheatgrass contains large amounts of saponin, it is able to boost the lymphatic system, thereby removing toxins from the body’s cells. Studies show that wheatgrass allows the body to detoxify through increasing the removal of crystallized acids, fecal matter, as well as hardened mucous. It is a fast and sure way to remove waste as well as generate a highly nutritious environment.

Amino Acids in Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass has been shown to contain large amounts of amino acids, which are necessary to the building of protein. They are also necessary to the regeneration and growth of the body’s cells. Because of this, many professional bodybuilders and those who wish to increase their muscle tone take wheatgrass in either fresh or powdered form before and after their daily exercise regimen.

The juice of wheatgrass contains numerous amino acids including; serine, arginine, absenisic, aspartic acid, lysine, alanine, glycine, methionine, tryptophane, leucine, valine and phenylalanine.

Wheatgrass Boosts the Immune System

Wheatgrass has been shown to protect and fight certain illnesses. The organic wheatgrass juices and powders are highly effective in the boosting of the immune system which allows the body to fight as well as more swiftly recover from a variety of ailments and illnesses.

Wheatgrass Research

Reflecting back on the first point, chlorophyll can serve to protect against carcinogens in a more effective manner than other foods. Studies conducted on animals have demonstrated that the consumption of wheatgrass reduces carcinogen absorption while strengthening the cells, neutralizing toxic elements and detoxifying organs such as the liver.

How to Take Wheatgrass

Wheatgrass is usually consumed as a fresh juice, as a shot or mixed with other ingredients in smoothies. It can also be consumed in powdered form, often added to smoothies, or taken as a dietary supplement in capsules and tablets.

Some people also grow their own wheatgrass at home using wheatgrass seeds and juicers designed specifically for extracting wheatgrass juice.

Always take care when taking herbs and Read Our Disclaimer.

Wheatgrass Notes / Side Effects

While wheatgrass is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in moderate amounts, there are some precautions to consider. Some individuals may experience digestive discomfort or allergic reactions to wheatgrass.

People with wheat or grass allergies, celiac disease or gluten intolerance should consult with a healthcare professional before consuming wheatgrass.