Monday, August 6, 2012

Is wheatgrass juice good for you? by Valerie Hould-Marchand

Wheatgrass is very popular among the health conscious crowd. In fact, it is often referred to as liquid gold, the king of all juices. And it is widely claimed that it can cure various serious health problems like cancer. On the other hand, many argue that it is just another green tonic. So who is correct? Is Wheatgrass always beneficial? Read on and find out. PROS • Great source of vitamins and minerals, like iron, calcium, magnesium and vitamin A, vitamin C and vitamin E • High concentration of chlorophyll and amino acids • Aids digestion • Good for detoxification • Boosts energy levels Nutrient Value Wheatgrass juice contains amino acids, selenium, magnesium, calcium, iron, chlorophyll and vitamins A, C, E, K, and B complex, and only has seven calories per shot. Vitamins A, C and E are antioxidants, so it may help fight damage from free radicals. The Hippocrates Institute claims that the chlorophyll in wheatgrass mimics the action of hemoglobin in the blood, which helps with the transportation of oxygen to the cells of the body. Drinking wheatgrass is also said to promote energy and stamina. CONS • Lacks sufficient evidence for its efficacy against serious health problems like cancer • Nutrients and benefits are only available when the grass is juiced • Easy to purchase, but can be expensive Side Effects Wheatgrass is considered safe for most people, as long as you don’t have any underlying illnesses and medical conditions. It is best consumed first thing in the morning to avoid minor side effects like nausea or headaches. Health Claims Wheatgrass proponents claim that it can treat many illnesses, including colds, bronchitis, and infections. Anecdotal reports claim that wheatgrass can treat cancer by causing tumors to shrink and go into remission. However, these claims have not all been verified through scientific study. According to the American Cancer Society, however, preliminary evidence does suggest that wheatgrass may help patients with colitis. There is an abundance of information concerning the pros and cons of wheatgrass, but devotees swear by its ability to aid in digestion and to detoxify the body. And despite the slim scientific evidence to support the health claims surrounding it, there is no doubt that just an ounce of wheatgrass juice per day provides a host of benefits. Until next time, Heal yourself, Heal the planet! References "Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database"; Therapeutic Research Faculty; 2011 "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A Balch, CNC, and James F. Balch, MD; 2003 American Cancer Society: Wheatgrass Hippocrates Institute: Wheatgrass

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