5 Research-Backed Benefits of Wheatgrass
Have you ever seen a small patch of thick grass on display in a smoothie or juice shop? That isn’t decor
– or the same grass that covers your lawn – it’s the superfood wheatgrass. Wheatgrass is harvested
from young Triticum aestivum plants, otherwise known as “common wheat” or “bread wheat”
(though it is 100% gluten-free). Sprouts less than two weeks old contain about 70%
chlorophyll, lending to its
incredible green color, rich nutrient profile, and range of wheatgrass benefits.
We can trace the medicinal use of wheatgrass back for thousands of years. Ancient Egyptians prized wheatgrass for its
health benefits, while it gained popularity in the West during the 20th century, largely thanks to agricultural
chemist Charles Schnabel. In his pilot study, Schnabel set out to discover if the nutrients in fresh-cut grass would
help revive ill hens. The hens in his experiment not only recovered – they went on to produce more eggs than
untreated healthy hens. [1]
Today, the combination of innovative technology and ancient wisdom allows us to produce the finest wheatgrass
supplements with maximum health benefits.
What Is Wheatgrass Good For?
Research shows that wheatgrass is a good source of bioavailable micronutrients and proteins that may help combat
disease, oxidative stress, fatigue,
metabolism concerns, and more [2]. Here are five science-backed benefits of a wheatgrass supplement:
-
Provides Essential Amino Acids
Amino acids are crucial for many body functions, including muscle repair, enzyme production, and hormone
regulation. Many health concerns –such as fatigue, poor immune response, weight loss, muscle weakness,
gastrointestinal (GI) issues, and accelerated aging – are related to an amino acid deficiency
[3]. -
Powerful Antioxidant
Antioxidants are necessary for
neutralizing free radicals (highly
reactive molecules) that
can damage cells, proteins, and DNA. This type of damage is called “oxidative stress.” Research
tells us that unmitigated oxidative stress can speed up the
aging process and leave your
body vulnerable to
chronic and degenerative diseases [5]. -
May Improve Physical Performance
Physical vitality is another benefit of wheatgrass. Hemoglobin, a protein found
in red blood cells, carries oxygen from the
lungs to tissues throughout the body. Chlorophyll structurally
resembles hemoglobin, giving it the ability to support red blood cell production and improve hemoglobin levels
[7]. -
Nutrients for Immune Support
Wheatgrass is rich in vitamins A, C,
and E, along with the minerals zinc,
selenium,
and iron. Studies show these vitamins and minerals, in particular, are important for a healthy immune system
that effectively fights illness.
Furthermore, wheatgrass contains choline, another immune system booster, as
well as antioxidants that may shield immune cells from oxidative stress [9]. -
Promotes Healthy Digestion
Consuming wheatgrass supplements may help balance the
gut microbiome,
promote a
healthy inflammation response, and
detoxify the body – all of which support healthy
digestion. -
May Reduce Cholesterol
Wheatgrass contains compounds like chlorophyll, fiber, and choline, which have been linked
to potential cholesterol-lowering
effects. A pilot study found that wheatgrass can bind to cholesterol and
glycerol esters and remove them from the body. This process can help prevent fatty liver disease and heart
conditions related to high cholesterol [12].
Wheatgrass contains 17 amino acids, eight of which are essential [4], meaning your body can’t
make them on
its own. A daily wheatgrass supplement is an easy way to meet your body’s needs for optimal functioning and
overall well-being.
Phytochemicals, like chlorophyll, are rich in free radical-neutralizing antioxidants. Because wheatgrass has such
a high chlorophyll content (up to 70%), it’s particularly effective at fighting oxidative stress. One
study found that chlorophyll’s “unique chemical structure allows [it] to scavenge harmful free
radicals, mitigate DNA damage, and modulate cellular processes involved in disease development [6].
Researchers recently studied how hemoglobin levels affect physical performance in older adults. They found that
low levels are associated with poor walking speed, grip strength, balance, and a general disability in daily
living activities [8]. This suggests that a wheatgrass supplement high in chlorophyll may improve
hemoglobin
levels and allow you to go about your day with renewed energy.
Wheatgrass is rich in apigenin, a flavonoid that researchers consider capable of preventing
inflammation
[10].
One study found that wheatgrass supplementation resulted in “significant reductions in disease activity”
for patients with ulcerative colitis, an inflammatory disorder of the colon [11].
Incorporating A Wheatgrass Supplement into Your Wellness Routine
Incorporating wheatgrass into your daily routine is
simple and convenient. You can mix powdered wheatgrass into water, juice, or smoothies for a quick and easy boost of
nutrients. Consistency is key – incorporate supplementation into your daily regimen to reap the potential
benefits of wheatgrass for digestion, immunity, and overall health.
When you shop wheatgrass supplements, look for organic and non-GMO certifications to minimize exposure to pesticides
and other harmful chemicals. Prioritize products that reputable third-party organizations have tested for purity and
potency. Check the label for additional ingredients and avoid supplements with unnecessary fillers or additives
– ideally, organic wheatgrass will be the only ingredient. Our
Organic Wheatgrass supplement checks all the
boxes – and we use advanced technology to help maximize wheatgrass benefits.
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