Touted as one of the healthiest foods on earth, wheatgrass is widely used as a natural cure and detox aid. From nutritionists to celebrities and fitness pros, everyone is praising its healing power. Its juice is the best dietary source of chlorophyll, a natural compound that inhibits bacterial growth, fights inflammation, and supports skin health. Compared to other green drinks, wheatgrass juice takes minutes to digest and boasts a high absorption rate. One shot (30 milliliters) provides the same nutritional value as one kilogram of leafy greens. Want to find out more? Here are some life-changing benefits of wheatgrass:
Restores Your Body's pH Balance When your body is too acidic, you may experience fatigue, muscle cramps and weakness, GERD, gastritis, and migraines. Excess body acidity may also increase your risk of cancer, osteoporosis, and chronic pain. Alkaline foods, such as wheatgrass and leafy greens, can help restore your body's pH levels and reduce toxic load. Chlorophyll, one of the most abundant nutrients in wheatgrass, helps prevent acidosis and protects your cells from oxidative stress.
Lower the Risk of Cancer High in vitamin C, vitamin E, and flavonoids, wheatgrass has been shown effective in cancer prevention. It may also reduce chemotherapy side effects in cancer patients, boost immune function, and scavenge the free radicals that cause cell mutations. Researchers have also found that wheatgrass can increase the effectiveness of chemotherapy and increase survival rates.
Improves Blood Lipid Profile According to a 2010 study, wheatgrass can reduce bad cholesterol and triglyceride levels even in those on a high-fat diet. At the same time, it elevates good cholesterol and glutathione (GSH) levels, enhances vitamin C absorption, and promotes liver detox. Glutathione, also known as "the mother of all antioxidants,” is stored in the liver. This compound plays a key role in cancer apoptosis, leukotriene production, enzyme formation, and immunity.
Slows the Aging Process Wheatgrass not only protects your heart and boosts immunity but also slows the aging process. Rich in the super- oxide dismutase, antioxidants, and enzymes, it helps decompose free radicals in the body and protects mitochondria within cells. This superfood is packed with anti-aging compounds, such as tannins, alkaloids, flavonoids, and phenolic compounds. When consumed as part of a healthy diet, it can reduce the appearance of wrinkles and improve skin appearance.
Prevents Inflammatory Diseases This plant contains natural compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity. Unlike capsaicin, it can be safely applied to open wounds, burns, and leg ulcers to reduce swelling and speed up healing. When ingested, it helps reduce inflammation in the body, which lowers your risk of allergic reactions, celiac disease, hepatitis, asthma, inflammatory bowel diseases, and arthritis pain. Additionally, it has none of the side effects associated with anti-inflammatory drugs.
Balances Your Hormones Wheatgrass helps stimulate the thyroid gland and supports hormone production. It's particularly beneficial for those with hypothyroidism. Even the slightest thyroid dysfunction can lead to weight gain, lethargy, depression, chronic fatigue, constipation, impaired immune function, and hair loss. This plant can naturally boost endocrine health and increase the production of T3 and T, the primary thyroid hormones. Most stores offer wheatgrass in powder, capsule, or liquid form. Ideally, opt for wheatgrass powder and make your own juice at home. Stick to organic brands and consume the juice in small amounts to prevent stomach upset.
