Wheat grass

[asha]

Hi Ciara,

What can you tell me about wheat grass? My husband and I have unexplained infertility issues, and we are currently on the IVF waitlist. Do you think this would help in the months leading up to IVF-- plus, we are definitely going to try to conceive naturally in the meantime.

Thanks!

Asha

[ciaram]

Hi Asha (I love your name by the way! I met a very sweet little girl in Asia named Asha and I have never forgotten her!)

Wheat grass is great for overall health and therefore can benefit fertility. It is a chlorophyll rich food. Among many things, chlorophyll benefits growth and repair of tissues and in combination with other vitamins such as A, C and E, chlorophyll can neutralize free radical damage to healthy cells.

The protein level of wheat grass is 20%- the same as some meats, but is filled with many minerals (interestingly wheat grass can actually pick up 92 minerals out of a possible 102 found in rich soil!) Therefore by taking wheat grass, not only are you receiving a quality protein source, you are also consuming many valuable minerals that are often lacking in our diet and which are essential to our well being (and therefore our fertility). Containing a multitude of digestive enzymes, wheat grass aids in digestion and benefits gastro-intestinal inflammation. Wheat grass will help our body extract the nutrients we need from the foods we eat. Finally wheat grass contains a carbohydrate that helps strengthen all tissues in the body- including the heart and arteries, lower blood fat and reduce inflammation. Strengthening all tissues in the body- also great for fertility.

Interestingly, even people who cannot eat wheat are rarely allergic to wheat in the grass form.

It is important to note that cereal grasses are cleansing. Cleansing is helpful prior to pregnancy and and conception by decreasing toxins stored in our body and helping our organs to function effectively. However too much cleansing can be hard on the body--so it is always good to work with or consult a practitioner while cleansing.

Dose: One ounce of wheat grass has therapeutic value and no more than 2 ounces should be taken at one time because it is very concentrated. Ideally wheat grass is taken one hour before a meal on an empty stomach. After taking wheat grass (or any cereal grass) you may have a mild headache, diarrhea, or other discomforts. This indicates a detox. The symptoms should be mild and last only a couple of days. If they persist, either too much is being taken or it is not appropriate for you.

Remember that wheat grass is great, but it is very important to have a healthy balanced diet. If you can consume 8-10 vegetables a day or have a large part of your plate as vegetables you will be doing wonders for your health. I cannot stress the importance of eating a balanced variety of whole foods- vegetables, leafy greens, grains, fruits and protein sources- and the huge impact this has on your over all health and your fertility. So, cereal grasses (or wheat grass) can act as another (and wonderful) vegetable to add into your diet!!

I hope that is helpful- if you are needing any other suggestions for diet please ask!!

Good luck,
Ciara

[ciaram]

Hi Asha,

I also forgot to tell you that wheat grass has hormonal balancing properties! Great for fertility!

Cheers!

Ciara

[asha]

Thanks for the info! Is it okay to take it in powdered (ie. capsule) form? I bought some of this, and then afterwards, I noticed that at a health food store they had it in frozen liquid cube form. Is there an advantage to taking it in one form over another?

asha

[ciaram]

Hi Asha,

Sorry about the delay.

As far as I know the capsules are beneficial, however most sources claim fresh wheat grass that is cultivated outside is the best... (I realise that we live in AB). The frozen cubes of wheat grass may be better because it would be more fresh than capsules. However, the most important thing is that you take it. If you find it easier to take capsules- please do so! You will reap the rewards. I would advise asking someone at the store which brand they trust the most and going with that brand.

Take care and enjoy the New Year!!
Ciara

[georgeshoemoney]

Wheat grass has many health benefits. We should it in our daily diet. I had it at home.