Why Wheatgrass?

Wheatgrass seems to be everywhere now, and it is one of those things that you assume is probably healthy, but wonder why you need it, or want it in your drink, shake, smoothie, or muffin.

Wheatgrass is young grass in the cereal family, which includes wheat, barley, rye and oats. It is full of nutrients, vitamins and other good stuff.  Wheatgrass is sold in capsules, tablets, powders, and in liquid form.  It is also super easy to grow.  Even though wheatgrass is said to be safe for everyone to consume, if you have a gluten allergy, intolerance or celiac disease, I would suggest consulting a doctor.  Technically, wheatgrass doesn't have gluten in it, but the seeds do; therefore, there is a danger of cross contamination should a seed get into the powder, juice, etc.  If cross-contamination of a seed is a concern based on your sensitivity, it might be good to avoid unless you grow your own.  Just remember, that wheatgrass is a medicinal herb, not a food and should be treated as such.  If you are looking for a substitute, that you can consume in larger quantities, try pea sprouts, while they are not quite as high in chlorophyll (50%), they are also a pretty good source of protein (20%).

Growing your own wheatgrass is pretty easy, and more cost efficient.  Wheatgrass, grows well in pots, though must be well drained to avoid mold, and prefers indirect sunlight.  Non-GMO seeds are readily available and can be purchased on Amazon, for example.  When growing your own, you will need to juice the wheatgrass to use (or simply chew on the pulp and then spit out), and it is shelf stable in the fridge for up to about 2 weeks.  

Wheatgrass in the powdered form, my preferred option, is created by freeze-, air-, or oven-drying fresh wheatgrass, and allows you to have it on hand and use in smoothies, water, juices, etc whenever you need it.  Most Whole Foods sell wheatgrass powder in bulk, but you can buy it pre-packaged almost anywhere now including GNC, Target, Amazon, etc.

So here some reasons why, you should seek out wheatgrass- but remember, it is a powerful detoxify, so you should consume in moderation (2-4 times per week, max) and start slowly.

Amazing Benefits of Wheatgrass

• Wheatgrass is 70% chlorophyll.  
• Wheatgrass is a crude chlorophyll, and can safely be taken orally or as a suppository.
• Chlorophyll is a natural anti-bacterial agent and can be used inside as well as outside the body as a natural healer.
• Wheatgrass helps rebuild the bloodstream.  According to studies, the high percentages of chlorophyll increases the red blood cell count, even in those with anemia.
• An article published in "Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers and Prevention" in April 2006 states that data from a study done on colorectal cancer suggests that consuming more chlorophyll-containing greens, while reducing read meat intake, may reduce the risk of colon cancer.
• Wheatgrass is high in antioxidants, which are substances that help protect the body from free radicals  Wheatgrass contains high levels of Vitamin A, C and E, all potent antioxidants.
• Liquid chlorophyll helps wash drug deposits from the body.
• Chlorophyll neutralizes toxins in the body and helps purify the liver.
• Chlorophyll improves blood sugar issues.
• Wheatgrass is high in magnesium and works as a "detergent" for the body by being highly detoxifying; proven to naturally aid the relief and treatment of constipation and other digestive tract issues, such as irritable bowl syndrome and acid reflux disease.  An article published in "Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology" in April 2002, noted that wheatgrass appears to be a safe and effective treatment for certain gastrointestinal conditions.
• Wheatgrass keeps hair from graying.
• Wheatgrass aids in oral care and hygiene including:  preventing tooth decay, eliminates toothaches (when held in mouth for 5 minutes), and soothes sore throats (gargle).
• Wheatgrass helps with symptoms of eczema and psoriasis.
• Wheatgrass can remove heavy metals from the body.
• Wheatgrass can help reduce high blood pressure.