Reasons Why Wheatgrass Is Beneficial For Diabetics

Many people around the world are facing diabetes, a disease characterized by inadequate production of insulin which is responsible for absorbing glucose from the food into the cells which can be used for energy. If the body fails to produce enough insulin, glucose stays in the blood and with increased levels, diabetes can manifest.

According to research, the consumption of wheatgrass can help prevent diabetes and manage its symptoms to avoid its progression.

Wheatgrass is a type of grass wherein its above-ground parts, rhizome, and roots are used as a medicine against various diseases. It contains concentrated nutrients such as vitamin A, C, and E as well as calcium, iron, magnesium, and amino acids. It also has powerful antioxidant, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties.

Reasons Why Wheatgrass Is Recommended For Diabetics

Contain High Levels of Antioxidants

In a study published in Phytotherapy Research in 2006, the result showed that extracts of wheatgrass have an anti-oxidative effect that prevents oxidative stress which has been linked to diabetes mellitus.

It was also found that its phenolics and flavonoids are responsible for its ability in fighting off free radicals that cause chronic diseases.

It Has Anti-Diabetic Properties

Studies have found that the ethanolic extracts of wheatgrass have anti-diabetic effects. It exhibits anti-hyperglycemic activity, hypolipidemic effects and antioxidant properties capable of curing diabetes.

Has Anti-Inflammatory Property

Inflammation in the blood vessels is caused by high blood sugar level in the body. Consumption of wheatgrass juice on a daily basis can help with chronic inflammations associated with diabetes, such as inflammation in the foot, lesion and leg ulcers.

Helps Promote Wound Healing

Due to its anti-inflammatory and wound-healing properties, wheatgrass can effectively treat painful and inflamed wound around the legs and foot of diabetic patients.

Wheatgrass contains as much as 70-percent chlorophyll which acts as a protective agent and has a bacteriostatic activity that can aid in wound healing. This can prevent bacterial infections in the ulcers. Aside from this, chlorophyll has also the ability to purify the liver, improve blood sugar and cleanse the body of drug deposits and toxins.

Helps Lower Down Cholesterol Levels

Cholesterol level is strongly linked to diabetes. Diabetics may experience an increase in cholesterol levels and reduce levels of good cholesterols, thus increasing their risks of heart diseases.

In a 2010 study, it was found that wheatgrass supplementation can help reduce the total cholesterol levels and increases levels of good cholesterol. So, start adding wheatgrass into your daily diet.

Aids In Weight Loss

It’s always important that we maintain a healthy weight since weight gain can significantly increase our risk of developing diabetes.

When it comes to losing some pounds, we can greatly benefit from drinking wheatgrass juice.

In a study published in the International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences in 2013, it was found that wheatgrass can stimulate metabolism and prevent food cravings that cause overeating and weight gain.

How To Consume Wheatgrass

Juice

Wheatgrass is most commonly consumed as a juice. Simply pop it right in the juicer or blender and strain the pulp. Add citrus or sweet fruits like apple, lemon or orange juice for additional flavor and nutrition.

Salads

Make your own salad dressing by mixing wheatgrass juice, vinegar, olive oil, herbs and spice for more complex flavor. A variety of fruits can also be blended in the wheatgrass juice for a tropical salad dressing.

Topical

Wheatgrass juice can be applied on the skin or scalp for medicinal purposes. It is rich in chlorophyll which is known to kill bacteria and reduce swelling. Simply dab the juice on the affected area or shower it all over the face and body to act as a cleanser. Allow it to soak into the skin for 15-20 minutes and rinse off with water.

Safety

Avoid consuming this herb if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have allergies to wheatgrass or suffering from celiac disease. Some of its rare side effects include headaches and mild nausea.