Wheatgrass is the young grass from the common wheat plant called Triticum aestivum. It is harvested at the early stage of growth when it is rich in chlorophyll, minerals, vitamins, and enzymes. Because of its rich nutrient profile and potential health benefits, it has earned a special place in health circles.
This superfood can be consumed as fresh grass, juice, powder, or supplement but it is important to know and understand the dos and don’ts of using wheatgrass. Let us learn about the important guidelines that help us with ways to maximize their benefits and avoid potential risks.
Dos of Using Wheatgrass Powder
- Start Small: Always start with a small dose of wheatgrass. ½ teaspoon a day is a good quantity to start with, and gradually increase it once your body has adjusted to its potent detoxifying properties.
- Stay Hydrated: We recommend drinking a lot of water while consuming wheatgrass powder. This helps in detoxification and also prevents dehydration, as wheatgrass can have a mild diuretic effect on the body.
- Blend in Beverages: Blending wheatgrass powder into juices, smoothies, and other beverages is a great way to consume this herb as its strong, grassy flavor gets masked when it is paired with fruits.
- Pair with Complementing Ingredients: Combining wheatgrass powder with complementing herbs and spices like mint, ginger, turmeric, lime, etc. is a great way to enhance the overall flavor and health benefits.
- Use Fresh and Organic Wheatgrass Powder: It is important to consume high-quality wheatgrass powder to enjoy maximum health benefits and avoid exposure to chemicals and additives. Consuming fresh wheatgrass powder ensures high nutritional value.
- Consume on an Empty Stomach: We suggest consuming wheatgrass on an empty stomach in the morning or before meals. This helps in optimal absorption of the herb.
- Store Right: Make sure that you store your wheatgrass powder in an airtight jar and keep it in a cool, dark, and dry place to preserve its freshness and potency.
Don’ts of Using Wheatgrass Powder
- Don't Overconsume: Consuming excessive amounts of wheatgrass can cause headaches, nausea, or digestive discomfort because of its detoxifying effects. It is important to stick to recommended doses.
- Don’t Cook with Wheatgrass Powder: Heating wheatgrass powder at high temperatures can destroy its valuable vitamins, chlorophyll, and enzymes. It is recommended to add this spice to food or beverages after cooking to enjoy maximum nutritional benefits.
- Avoid In Case of Allergies: If you are allergic to wheat or grass-related plants, then you must avoid using wheatgrass. Though wheatgrass does not contain gluten but those who have serious allergies to wheat should be extra careful.
- Don’t Ignore Detox Symptoms: Symptoms like digestive discomfort or headaches are common when one first starts consuming wheatgrass. They should ideally subside as your body adjusts, but if they persist, lower your intake.
- Don’t Consume During Pregnancy or Nursing Without Consulting Doctor: If you are pregnant or a nursing mother, then we suggest consulting your doctor before including wheatgrass in your diet, as its detoxifying properties may cause discomfort.
- Don’t Use Contaminated Wheatgrass: If there is any kind of weird smell or discoloration in your wheatgrass powder, then you must not consume it. Contaminated wheatgrass powder can lead to health issues.
- Don’t Take on Medications Without Medical Advice: It is important to use wheatgrass after consulting your doctor if you are already on medications that affect immune function or blood clotting, as this herb may interfere with certain medications.
Make sure that you follow these dos and don'ts so that you can safely enjoy the health benefits of wheatgrass powder and minimize any side effects associated with it.
Health Risks Associated with Using Wheatgrass Powder
While wheatgrass powder offers numerous health benefits, there are some potential health risks to be aware of. These risks surface especially when consumed in excess or under certain conditions.
- Digestive Discomfort: Some people may experience digestive issues when they first consume wheatgrass because of its high fiber content and detoxifying properties.
- Allergic Reactions: Because it is derived from the wheat plant, it may cause allergies in people who are allergic to wheat or grass-related plants.
- Detox Symptoms: Headache, mild fever, and fatigue are some detox symptoms that can surface on consumption of wheatgrass as a result of its detoxifying properties.
Don’t miss out on any information shared in this post while consuming wheatgrass so that you can make the most of its health benefits.
At Spice Profile, we have the finest quality wheatgrass powder that has been responsibly sourced from farms in India. Processed from the best wheatgrass, our wheatgrass powder is completely organic and free from additives. Enjoy this superfood packed with nutrients in your daily diet to stay fit and healthy!