Anemia develops when the body has a shortage of red blood cells and there is difficulty in transporting oxygen effectively. There are several forms of anemia and the most common is iron deficiency anemia which occurs when the body lacks sufficient amount of iron stored, and this can be caused from insufficient intake of iron through food, heavy menstrual periods, certain medications and an increased intake of iron caused by pregnancy or breastfeeding. Symptoms include weakness, headaches, difficulty in concentration as well as feeling of grumpiness, pale skin tone, light-headedness, brittle nails and shortness of breath.
Wheatgrass can boost the immune system and help in treating diseases due to its high iron content and helpful in treating iron deficiency anemia. Wheatgrass is a natural source of iron and helps in increasing the daily intake of iron when managing anemia. Drinking adequate amount of wheatgrass juice can lead to an increase of iron in the diet.
Wheatgrass is a natural source of vitamins and minerals along with antioxidants such as vitamin A, E and B12, calcium as well as magnesium, iron and selenium.
One ounce of wheatgrass juice contains vitamin and mineral content that can be equal to one ounce of fresh vegetables. Wheatgrass is a nutrient-rich type of grass in the wheat family and can be taken as dietary supplement in tablet, capsule and liquid form. Wheatgrass can be used as juice and added to smoothies or tea.
How to prepare wheatgrass drink
Mix ½ cup milk such as cow’s milk, goat’s milk, soy milk or rice milk and then add a teaspoon of honey, a teaspoon of wheatgrass powder, ¼ cup frozen berries and ¼ bananas and put in a blender. Raspberries, blueberries and cranberries can also be used because they are high in antioxidants.
Start drinking wheatgrass juice once a day for the first week, then after a week begin drinking between 2 and 4 ounce in a day between meals. Wheatgrass juice can be consumed without food and with a glass of water. If it tastes too sweet or too strong, mix it with another juice or even celery. Wheatgrass supplement available in tablet, capsule and liquid form can also be taken on a daily basis.
Prevention of anemia
Anemia can be avoided by choosing a diet that is rich in vitamins and nutrients such as iron-rich foods particularly beef, beans, dark leafy vegetables and dried fruits. Synthetic form of folic acid is present in citrus fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, bananas and legumes. Vitamin B12 found that is present in dairy products and meat as well as vitamin C present in citrus fruits such as melons and berries and helps increase the absorption of iron. If you want to learn measures to properly manage the condition, read here.