Did you know cancer cells can’t survive in an alkaline environment? The key to preventing not only cancer but also a whole host of health problems lies in the state of your body’s pH. And there’s one superfood that stands above the rest for boosting alkalinity—wheatgrass.
Wheatgrass is more than just a trendy ingredient in green juices. It’s packed with nutrients that could transform your health from the inside out. Imagine improving your body’s pH, detoxifying your liver, and supercharging your immune system—all by adding this simple ingredient to your daily routine. Keep reading to discover why you need to make wheatgrass a staple in your diet and an easy recipe to start reaping its benefits today.
What is Wheatgrass?
Wheatgrass, the young green shoots of the wheat plant (Triticum aestivum), is a highly nutritious superfood. Commonly grown in the U.S. and Europe, wheatgrass is simple and affordable to grow at home. Just a week after sprouting the seeds, you can start harvesting this health-boosting plant. Its taste can be quite bitter, but it is at its sweetest when harvested in low light, just after the sprouting stage.
When growing wheatgrass, make sure it’s in a well-ventilated space to prevent mold, which can grow when roots are bound too tightly in moist soil. Mold can lead to health concerns, so try to plant the seeds with some space in between, avoid over-watering, and keep the area airy.
Nutritional Benefits of Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is packed with essential vitamins and minerals, some of which act as powerful antioxidants. These include:
- Vitamins A and E
- A full spectrum of B vitamins
- Iron
- Zinc
- Selenium
- Magnesium
- Calcium
- Potassium
- Sodium
It’s also a complete protein source. In fact, just 2 ounces of wheatgrass juice contains the nutritional equivalent of 5 pounds of organic, raw vegetables. This means consuming wheatgrass regularly can provide your body with an abundance of essential nutrients and antioxidants.
Why Wheatgrass is a Superfood
- Cleanses and Detoxifies: Wheatgrass helps detoxify the liver and bloodstream, ridding your body of toxins and environmental pollutants.
- Fights Cancer: Wheatgrass contains cancer-fighting enzymes, like Superoxide Dismutase, which help neutralize free radicals and prevent cell damage. While we are on this topic, did you know that dandelion root extract was found to kill leukemia cells, prostate cancer cells and chemo-resistant melanoma? Read more about it here.
- Rich in Chlorophyll: The high chlorophyll content in wheatgrass helps heal and oxygenate your body. It boosts the oxygen supply to your blood, promoting improved brain function and overall health.
- Balances pH Levels: Maintaining a balanced pH level in your body is crucial for optimal health. Wheatgrass helps neutralize acidity, making your body more alkaline, which is essential for preventing illness.
- Repairs DNA: Wheatgrass contains enzymes like P4-D1 and D1-G1, which help repair damaged DNA, especially from radiation exposure.
Why Alkalinity is Important
For your body to function properly, your blood pH needs to stay between 7.35 and 7.45. Many of the foods we eat can create an acidic environment in the body, making it harder for your body to maintain that balance. Wheatgrass is one of the most effective natural foods for keeping your body alkaline, helping to counteract this acidity and keep you healthier.
How to Incorporate Wheatgrass into Your Diet
One of the easiest ways to get the benefits of wheatgrass is by juicing it. Juicing pre-digests the nutrients for you, making them easier for your body to absorb. If you’re not a fan of the bitter taste of wheatgrass, try mixing it into smoothies to improve the flavor.
Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Pineapple and Coconut Green Smoothie with Wheatgrass
Ingredients:
- 4 oz fresh wheatgrass juice
- 2 cups of cubed pineapple
- 4 oz coconut water
- 2 small peeled bananas
- 1 cup baby spinach
Instructions:
- Pour the fresh wheatgrass juice and coconut water into a blender.
- Add the pineapple, bananas, and spinach.
- Blend on high for 30 seconds until smooth.
For the best results, consume the wheatgrass juice fresh—within 15 minutes of juicing—to maximize its nutritional benefits.
Wheatgrass is one of the most alkalizing and nutrient-dense foods you can incorporate into your daily routine. Whether you juice it, blend it, or add it to smoothies, it’s an excellent way to detoxify, promote alkalinity, and provide your body with a wide range of essential nutrients. With its high antioxidant content and numerous health benefits, adding wheatgrass to your diet can be a powerful step toward improving your overall health.
