Wheatgrass, all the benefits of green superfood

The wheatgrass it is becoming a trendy superfood also in Italy.

Its name indicates the “wheat grass “, ie the young leaves that are obtained from the germination of soft wheat. From them, in fact, a healthy drink is born that can be used as a food supplement because it is rich in nutritional properties, a source of well-being for the body.

Wheatgrass is very popular among vegans and vegetarians, as well as being especially useful for those who practice sports or during periods of stress mental and physical fatigue. Its properties can change due to certain factors such as where the plant was grown, when it was treated and dried. Rich in vitamins A, C, B and precious minerals such as potassium, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, iron, zinc, wheatgrass helps the immune system to strengthen itself for the winter season.

Wheatgrass, source of well-being for the body

There are numerous therapeutic effects of wheatgrass:

• Powerful antioxidant: rich in flavonoids and vitamins, it helps to combat free radicals and premature skin aging. It is a valid help to keep the epidermis elastic and young for a long time;
• Helps to purify the body: has a draining effect and purifies the body from excess waste, thus preventing disorders affecting the digestive system;
• Improve mental function: its neuroprotective effects help to strengthen cognitive abilities and memory. Furthermore, it prevents neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease;
• Supernutriente: it is a food rich in chlorophyll, vitamins, minerals and enzymes and goes well with a healthy and balanced diet. This is why it is much loved by sportsmen and by those who want to lose weight;
• It strengthens the immune system: helps the body to defend itself from the attack of bacteria and viruses. It is a valid support for preventing seasonal ailments such as colds, coughs and flu;
• Counteracts bad cholesterol: has the ability to regulate the level of fats and cholesterol in the blood.

Wheatgrass: side effects and contraindications

Excessive use of wheatgrass can cause nausea, headaches, and digestive upset. There main contraindication of the use of wheat grass is represented by the known allergy to the plant. Its use is not recommended during the pregnancy and breastfeeding while its consumption is not suitable for those who are intolerant to wheat and children.

On the contrary, it can be safely taken in the presence of celiac disease because gluten is broken down by enzymes into individual amino acids during germination, thus resulting ineffective in triggering the side effects related to the disease.

Wheatgrass: where to find it and how to consume it

Wheatgrass is consumed orally in the form of juice o in dust and can be taken in the amount of one cup of coffee a day for a week and then increase the doses. Using the ready-made juice, you can mix a tablespoon of about 4 grams in a little water.

It is recommended to drink wheatgrass especially in the morning to fill up on energy. Its powder can be mixed with water, fruit or vegetable juice and yogurt and can be purchased in the best health food stores or in stores that have organic food throughout the country.

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