Wheatgrass is a natural source of Vitamins A, E, C, K and B complex. It also contains minerals, magnesium, iron, calcium, as well as amino acids. Hence, wheatgrass can help in treating various medical conditions, including diabetes. Read on to find out the benefits that a diabetic person can get from consuming wheatgrass.
Folk Medicine
Since wheatgrass contains so many healthy nutrients, the herb can help improve various health conditions. It can help boost ones immune system. Its antibacterial properties can also help in colon detoxification. Wheatgrass has been used in treating cancer and diabetes. Unfortunately, there are limited clinic studies that can confirm these benefits.
Research
Wheatgrass has played an important role in improving the level of lipids and glucose in a person. Thus, it can help in managing diabetes. This is according to a research published in 2009 by the Journal of Herbal Medicine and Toxicology.
In the study, 30 volunteers were given meals with wheatgrass. The researchers found that adding just 15 g of wheatgrass to some foods can help to significantly lower the Glycemic Index of some foods and thus, improving ones level of blood glucose. The triglycerides levels improved among those participants who took wheatgrass.
Safety
Wheatgrass is generally safe and well-tolerated. Some side effects such as headaches and nausea may happen but rarely. Wheatgrass may cause allergic reactions in some individuals, especially those who are allergic to wheat or grass or those who have Celiac disease. The safety in the consumption of wheatgrass during pregnancy and lactation has not been fully assessed. Hence it is best for pregnant women as well as those who are breastfeeding to avoid wheatgrass.
Considerations
If you would like to consume wheatgrass regularly to help your diabetes, it is best to consult a qualified healthcare provider to determine the optimal daily dosage of wheatgrass. It is very important to keep in mind that wheatgrass cannot replace any diabetes medication you are currently taking.
