Health Benefits of Wheatgrass - Fact and Myth

You must have heard of the 'Wheatgrass' that you see everywhere these days and that many people talk about, right? It is said that drinking this green drink cures many diseases, is very good for the body, and removes toxins from the body. So today, let's see what is true or not in this story, and what medical science says about it, just as simply as you would tell a friend.

First, let's see, what is wheatgrass?

Simply put, these are the young shoots of the wheat plant (`Triticum aestivum`). These plants are harvested and used when they are at their peak nutritional value, about 7-10 days after planting.

The reason for its bright green color is that about 70% of the plant's weight is made up of chlorophyll . Chlorophyll is the green pigment that plants use to make food using sunlight. Surprisingly, the molecular structure of this chlorophyll is very similar to the hemoglobin that carries oxygen in our blood. That's why some people call it "green blood."

The reason why many people like it is because of its high chlorophyll content, enzymes, amino acids, vitamins, and minerals. It is also believed to strengthen the immune system, kill germs, and detoxify the body. Even in our Ayurvedic system of medicine, it has been used as a treatment for acidity, inflammation of the colon, kidney problems, and wounds.

Okay, so now let's see what modern medical research has to say about this.

What are the medically proven health benefits?

Wheatgrass is low in calories, rich in antioxidants like vitamin C and vitamin E, and minerals like selenium, zinc, and iron. But let's be honest, despite all the hype, there's still not enough evidence in humans to suggest that it can prevent or cure disease. Most of the research that exists is done in test-tube studies or on animals.

However, there is some promising research on the benefits it may provide in certain situations.

Reducing the side effects of chemotherapy treatments given to cancer patients

This is the most supported research to date. In a study of 60 breast cancer patients, wheatgrass juice was shown to reduce some of the side effects of chemotherapy. In particular, it was found to reduce myelotoxicity , which is the reduction in the ability of the bone marrow to produce cells such as white blood cells and platelets. This is a common side effect of chemo. This means that the dose of chemo has to be reduced, which reduces the ability to kill cancer cells. The study suggests that wheatgrass juice may help control this condition.

Relieving Ulcerative Colitis

A small study from 2002 showed that wheatgrass juice may help relieve symptoms of ulcerative colitis , an inflammatory bowel disease. Although more research is needed on this, it does offer some hope.

Blood sugar and cholesterol control

Keep in mind that these are still in animal studies. One study found that when diabetic rats were given wheatgrass juice, their insulin levels increased and their blood sugar levels were controlled. Another study in animals showed that it had the same effect as a cholesterol-lowering drug (atorvastatin) in reducing bad cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) and triglycerides.

Cancer cell growth and infection control

Two studies have shown that when oral and colon cancer cells were taken and treated with wheatgrass juice in the lab, the growth of the cancer cells was slowed . The juice has also been shown in labs to inhibit the growth of several types of bacteria that cause food poisoning. But this research is still in its early stages.

Nutritional properties of wheatgrass

The nutritional value of wheatgrass can vary depending on factors such as the soil conditions, light, and temperature in which it is grown. Generally, its juice contains a lot of concentrated nutrients.

Are there any risks when using this?

Wheatgrass is generally safe to use, but some people have reported side effects, especially when taken in high doses.

• Minor side effects: headache, nausea, stomach upset.
• Serious side effects: Allergic reactions. For example, skin rashes, swelling of the throat.
• Germ Risk: Since these are usually consumed raw, there is a small risk of contamination with bacteria or mold from the soil. This is especially important if you are growing them at home.

Those who should be especially careful

• Pregnant and nursing mothers, young children, and those with weakened immune systems: Due to the risk of bacterial/mold infections that can occur from consuming raw wheatgrass, it is best for these people to avoid using it.
• People with wheat or grass allergies: If you have an allergy to wheat (not just gluten) or other grasses, it is best to avoid using these. Although wheatgrass does not contain gluten, there is a risk of cross-contamination with wheat grains during harvesting.

How do you use these?

These plants are difficult to digest because they are fibrous. Therefore, they are usually consumed as a juice. They can also be taken as a powder or capsules.

• As for juice, it is usually drunk straight as a 1-2 ounce `shot`.
• Because the taste is a bit "grassy," you can also mix it into a fruit juice, smoothie, or coconut water.
• In powder form, it can be added to smoothies, salad dressings, or even soups.

Wheatgrass, Health Benefits, Nutrition, Cancer, Diabetes, Side Effects