The Power of Wheat Grass Juice

Wheat Grass is a form of grass which is grown by planting wheat kernels in the soil. The parts above the ground, rhizome and roots are used for medicinal purpose. Wheat grass is a concentrate source of nutrients. It is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, iron, magnesium, calcium and many amino acids. It contains a pigment called chlorophyll which has a close resemblance with hemoglobin.

Wheat grass can be used in the form of juice, powder and fresh leaves. Juicing can be done at home easily by planting the wheat kernels in the mud pot. Wheat grass juice and wheat grass powder can easily be procured from the nearby super market.

Although there isn’t much scientific evidence about wheat grass its benefits and side effects it is still used to treat many health conditions. There are certain benefits and few side effects of wheat grass juice, these are listed below:

Benefits of Wheat Grass Juice

• Stimulates the Thyroid Gland and Aids Weight Loss: Wheat grass has a property to stimulate the thyroid gland so it is beneficial for the people having hypothyroid. The compound found in wheat grass stops the TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) from binding to its thyroid receptor sites, slows or even quells the uptake of iodine by the active transport sites on thyroid cell surfaces. Consuming wheat grass juice daily can even reduce the doses of your thyroid medicine and also aid weight loss in hypothyroid patients.

• Powerful Detox: Drinking a cup of wheat grass juice before meals can detox your body in an amazing way, try it with a fruit detox diet before a wedding party or a holiday and see yourself drop down by a size and rejuvenate your skin making it look flawless, fresh and radiant. 

• Improves Hemoglobin and Red Blood Cells: Some health experts have discovered that the chlorophyll of wheat grass is identical to the hemoglobin of the human blood. Because of these close similarities, the human body is able to synthesize hemoglobin from the chlorophyll of wheat grass with an ease. Which is addition serves to increase the number of Red Blood Cells so as to deliver other nutrients and oxygen to the body cells more efficiently.

• Improves Digestion: Because of its alkaline nature wheat grass is helpful in improving digestion related issues like, hyper-acidity, flatulence, relieves the symptoms of peptic ulcers, treats ulcerative colitis, relieves from constipation and diarrhea, and also improves other gastrointestinal disorders.

• Lowers Blood Pressure: It is known that people who include lot of fresh green leafy vegetables in their diet tend to have normal blood pressure. Wheat Grass is a vegetable which is low in sodium content. Wheat grass can provide 4% of an adult’s daily requirement of fiber, this can help to control the blood pressure.

• Slows down Aging: Wheat Grass is loaded with antioxidants and contains all Vitamins and Minerals which are good for skin and hair health. These antioxidants neutralizes free radicals in the body there by slows down the aging process and reveal a more youthful vitality and vigour.

• Immunity Booster: As wheat grass has the ability to increase the red blood cells that is why it is very effective in boosting immunity.

• Treats Skin Diseases: Skin disorders like Eczema and Psoriasis can be treated with Wheat grass. Freeze wheat grass juice in ice cube tray, and rub the cubes across blemishes on your skin as well as on any scars or damaged areas. Alternatively, you could mix a cup of wheat grass juice or wheat grass powder into a warm bath and soak your body in the bath for at least 30 minutes. Your body will be cleansed and will be odor-free.

• Stabilizes Lipid Levels: Wheat Grass juice can help improve the lipid levels, which means it is a good tool to manage dyslipidemia.

• Fights Depression: The vitamin B present in wheat grass is effective to overcome anxiety and achieve a better state of mental health. Wheat grass juice also helps to keep the iron levels stable, which is particularly important for women as Iron deficiency is linked to apathy and depression.

• Reduces Fatigue: Low immunity leads the body to become fatigued frequently. Chlorophyll present in wheat grass juice helps to increase the supply of oxygen to the body cells and tissues and regenerates the tired cells, which heals the body and reduces the symptoms of fatigue.

There are many other health benefits of wheat grass juice which include removing of drug deposits, heavy metals, and cancer-causing agents from the body; and for removing toxins from the liver and blood. It is also useful in premature graying of hair and improving skin health. Wheat grass is also used to treat various disorders of the urinary tract, including infection of the bladder, urethra, and prostate, kidney stones etc.

Other uses include treatment of respiratory tract complaints, including the common cold, cough, bronchitis, fever, and sore throat; gout; liver disorders and joint pain.

Side Effects of Wheat Grass Juice

Although Wheat Grass is a store house of health benefits it does possess few side effects also. 

Some of the most common side effects of wheat grass juice are listed below:

• Headaches and Nausea: In some cases continuous consumption of wheat grass often leads to nausea. Sometimes nausea is also accompanied by headache and dizziness, this is basically in response to the rapid detoxification using wheat grass juice. 

• Constipation and Diarrhea: Too much( Excess of Wheat Grass )consumption of wheat grass juice in a short span of time leads to indigestion as body is not able to digest it properly, diarrhea or constipation can be the one of the symptoms depending on how one’s body react to wheat grass. Everybody’s body responds differently so the best way to introduce wheat grass is in small quantities and gradually increasing the doses so that the body can adapt to the change slowly.

• Fever: Mild fever can occur during the first few days of consumption of wheat grass juice due to a sudden chemical shift in the bloodstream as the purification process commences.

• Allergic Reaction: The most serious consequence of consuming wheat grass can be an allergic reaction. Signs of allergic reaction include facial swelling, skin rashes, tightening of throat or difficulty breathing. Stop the use of wheat immediately if you experience these reactions.

• Gluten Intolerance: Although wheat grass is a leafy shrub and it is free of gluten but it can be contaminated with gluten while harvesting or processing of wheat grass juice.

How to Use Wheat Grass and Doses

Wheat Grass juice can be mixed with lukewarm water and taken early morning on empty stomach. Wheat grass juice can also be mixed with other fruits and vegetable juices and consumed, it can be added to smoothies, milk shakes and energy drinks. Most appropriate time to consume wheat grass juice is early morning, on empty stomach, after freshening up.

Doses: 50-60 ml (10-12 tea spoons) of wheat grass juice is safe to be taken on a regular basis, in case you get any of the above mentioned side effects discontinue the use.

The Magic of Turmeric Latte - Kid's Special

The Guardian recently published a story discussing America’s obsession with Turmeric Lattes.

Turmeric (Haldi) is the vibrant yellow-orange kitchen herb affectionately known as the magic sword against inflammation, infections and immunity booster. It was birthed in India and centuries ago crowned as one of the great dosha balancers in ayurvedic medicine. With all the healing benefits, your child can taste the inherent goodness with each sip. It is just as delicious as it is nutritious. Since ages Indians have known the goodness of this golden spice and used in their kitchen for culinary purpose. Its many benefits have made it quite popular worldwide and these days turmeric is used in many preparations including beauty products, medicines and health supplements.



Here are few Health Benefits of Turmeric Latte (Haldi Doodh) listed below:

Anti-Inflammatory
Turmeric milk is anti-inflammatory, and can prevent and protect from arthritis and stomach ulcers. It is also known as ‘natural aspirin’ in Ayurvedic medicine and can cure headaches, swelling and pain.

Respiratory Illness

Turmeric milk is an antimicrobial that attacks bacterial infections and viral infections. It is useful for treating illnesses related to the respiratory system, since the spice heats up your body and provides quick relief from lung congestion and sinuses. This is also an effective remedy to cure asthma and bronchitis.

Cold And Cough

Turmeric milk is considered the best remedy for cold and cough due to its antiviral and antibacterial properties. It gives instant relief to a sore throat, cough and cold.



Aches And Pains

Turmeric golden milk gives the best relief from aches and pains. This can also strengthen the spine and the joints in the body.


Heal Wounds

Turmeric happens to be a natural antiseptic as well as an antibacterial agent hence it is a great disinfectant. If your child has a wound then all you need to do is sprinkle some turmeric powder on the wound, this will speed up the healing process. Having turmeric milk will help to heal the wound from inside too.

Antioxidant Rich

Turmeric milk is an excellent source of antioxidants that fight free radicals. It can cure many ailments.

Blood Purifier

Turmeric milk is considered an excellent blood purifier and cleanser in Ayurvedic tradition. It can revitalize and boost the blood circulation in the body. It is also known as a blood thinner that cleanses the lymphatic system and the blood vessels from all impurities.The presence of a wide range of vital nutrients in this milk boosts blood circulation.

Liver Detox

Turmeric milk is a natural liver detoxifier and blood purifier that boosts the liver function. It supports the liver and cleanses the lymphatic system.

Bone Health

Turmeric milk is a good source of calcium which is necessary to keep the bones healthy and strong. Turmeric milk lowers the bone loss and osteoporosis.

Digestion

It is a powerful antiseptic that promotes intestinal health and treats stomach ulcers and colitis. This helps in better digestion and prevents ulcers, diarrhoea and indigestion.

Protects from hepatitis

The antiviral action of turmeric milk is due to the presence of curcumin that prevents viruses from multiplying in the body, thereby hindering their growth. Additionally, it boosts your immune system and protects the liver from viral attack. Here are some key steps to prevent viral hepatitis.








Give a glass of Turmeric Milk to your baby a day and keep them healthy and agile.

Recipe - Turmeric Latte

INGREDIENTS (Serves - 1)

1 cup unsweetened almond, dairy or coconut milk

1 tablespoon fresh turmeric root, grated (or use approximately 2 teaspoons turmeric paste)

1 teaspoon cinnamon powder

1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger root (or 1 teaspoon ground)

1 tablespoon coconut oil

Raw honey or sugar (As per the taste)

Pinch of black pepper (optional)

Note:

To make the turmeric paste, combine 2 parts turmeric powder with 1 part boiling water. Mix and store any extra in the fridge for up to 5 days.


METHOD
Gently warm the milk in a small saucepan. Do not boil. Add turmeric, ginger and cinnamon. Next, combine coconut oil with the mixture and gently heat together until melted. Whisk with immersion blender to create a foam. Continue to stir until frothy and heated through.

Stir in honey or sweetener of choice to taste. Sprinkle with cinnamon powder if desired. Sip, savor & enjoy.

G6PD Deficiency

 

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency

Glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency is a genetic disorder that occurs most often in males. This condition mainly affects red blood cells, which carry oxygen from the lungs to tissues throughout the body. In affected individuals, a defect in an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase causes red blood cells to break down prematurely. This destruction of red blood cells is called hemolysis.

The most common medical problem associated with glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency is hemolytic anemia, which occurs when red blood cells are destroyed faster than the body can replace them. This type of anemia leads to paleness, yellowing of the skin and whites of the eyes (jaundice), dark urine, fatigue, shortness of breath, and a rapid heart rate. In people with glucose-6-dehydrogenase deficiency, hemolytic anemia is most often triggered by bacterial or viral infections or by certain drugs (such as some antibiotics and medications used to treat malaria). Hemolytic anemia can also occur after eating fava beans or inhaling pollen from fava plants (a reaction called favism).

Glucose-6-dehydrogenase deficiency is also a significant cause of mild to severe jaundice in newborns. Many people with this disorder, however, never experience any signs or symptoms.

Causes

G6PD deficiency occurs when a person is missing or doesn't have enough of an enzyme called glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase, which helps red blood cells work properly.

Too little G6PD leads to the destruction of red blood cells. This process is called hemolysis. When this process is actively occurring, it is called a hemolytic episode. The episodes are usually brief, because the body continues to produce new red blood cells, which have normal activity.

Red blood cell destruction can be triggered by infections, severe stress, certain foods (such as fava beans), and certain drugs, including:

• Antimalarial drugs
• Aspirin
• Nitrofurantoin
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)
• Quinidine
• Quinine
• Sulfa drugs

Other chemicals, such as those in mothballs, can also trigger an episode.

In the United States, G6PD deficiency is more common among blacks than whites. Men are more likely to have this disorder than women.

You are more likely to develop this condition if you:

• Are African American
• Are of Middle Eastern decent, particularly Kurdish or Sephardic Jewish
• Are male
• Have a family history of the deficiency

A form of this disorder is common in whites of Mediterranean descent. This form is also associated with acute episodes of hemolysis. Episodes are longer and more severe than in the other types of the disorder.

Symptoms

Persons with this condition do not display any signs of the disease until their red blood cells are exposed to certain chemicals in food or medicine, or to stress.

Symptoms are more common in men and may include:

• Dark urine
• Enlarged spleen
• Fatigue
• Pallor
• Rapid heart rate
• Shortness of breath
• Yellow skin color (jaundice)

Exams and Tests

A blood test can be done to check the level of G6PD. See: G6PD screen

Other tests that may be done include:

• Bilirubin level
• Complete blood count, including red blood cell count
• Hemoglobin - blood
• Hemoglobin - urine
• Haptoglobin level
• LDH test
• Methemoglobin reduction test
• Reticulocyte count

Treatment

Treatment may involve:

• Medicines to treat an infection, if present
• Stopping any drugs that are causing red blood cell destruction
• Transfusions, in some cases.
• Avoiding foods and medications that can trigger the condition.
• Reducing stress levels

Nutrition Therapy

Some of these foods to avoid are commonly eaten around the world and can cause people with G6PD . Deficiency to hemolyze and can even be deadly (like fava beans). Some others can cause low level hemolysis, which means that red blood cells die, but not enough to cause the person to go to the hospital. Low level hemolysis over time can cause other problems, such as memory dysfunction, overworked spleen, liver, kidney and heart, and iron overload. Even though a G6PD Deficient person may not have a crises when consuming these foods, they should be avoided.

Fava Beans and other legumes

Our list of legumes contains every legume we could find, but there may be other names for them that we do not know about. Low level hemolysis is very hard to detect and can cause other problems, so we recommend the avoidance of all legumes.

Sulfites

and foods containing them. Sulfites are used in a wide variety of foods, so be sure to check labels carefully.

Menthol

and foods containing it. This can be difficult to avoid as tooth paste, candy, breath mints, mouth wash and many other products have menthol added to them. Mint from natural mint oils is alright to consume.

Artificial blue food coloring

other artificial food color can also cause hemolysis. Natural food color such as found in foods like turmeric or grapes is okay.

Ascorbic acid

Artificial ascorbic acid commonly put in food and vitamins can cause hemolysis in large doses and should be avoided. It is put into so many foods that you can be getting a lot of Ascorbic Acid without realizing it.

See Ascorbic Acid for more information about iron absorbtion and ascorbic acid.

Vitamin K

This is from drugbank: “Menadione (vitamin K3), which is not used as a nutritional supplemental form of vitamin K for humans, has been reported to cause adverse reactions, including hemolytic anemia. Large doses have also been reported to cause brain damage. Vitamin K administered to newborns with G6PD Deficiency has been known to cause adverse outcomes including hemolytic anemia, neonatal brain or liver damage, or neonatal death in some cases.”

Tonic water

(contains quinine, a contraindicated drug which causes hemolysis in G6PDD people).

Gluten Free Products

Some of these, like flour, etc. have fava beans in them. Be sure the check the label for legumes before you purchase of eat them.

Bitter Gourd and Garden Egg

Bitter Gourd is also known as Bitter Mellon. These are common foods in some parts of Africa and Asia.

Some Chinese herbs

particularly Rhizoma Coptidis (huang lien), Calculus Bovis (neu huang), Flos Chimonanthi Praecocis (leh mei hua), Flos Lonicerae (kam ngan fa) and Margarita or anything containing them.

Black and Green Tea and extracts

Research has shown that these products significantly reduce reduced glutathione levels among other things in people with G6PDD. See article 55 on the references page.