Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass
Wheatgrass (/'wi:tgrɑ:s/) is a food prepared from the freshly sprouted first leaves of the common wheat plant, Triticum aestivum. It can be grown and prepared at home or purchased in juice, powder or supplement form.
Etymology
The term "wheatgrass" is a compound of the words "wheat" and "grass". "Wheat" comes from the Old English hwǣte, and "grass" from the Old English græs.
Usage
Wheatgrass is often used for juicing or added to smoothies. Health food stores often offer it as a fresh juice, but it is also available in powder form, which can be mixed with water or juice. Additionally, it can be bought as a supplement in pill or tablet form.
Health Benefits
Wheatgrass is a rich source of many different vitamins and minerals. It is especially high in vitamins A, C and E, as well as iron, magnesium, calcium and amino acids. Of its 17 amino acids, eight are considered essential, meaning your body cannot produce them and must obtain them from food.
Related Terms
- Chlorophyll: The pigment that gives wheatgrass its green color and is essential for photosynthesis.
- Juicing: The process of extracting juice from fruits and vegetables.
- Amino Acids: Organic compounds that combine to form proteins.
- Vitamins: Organic compounds that are needed in small quantities to sustain life.
- Minerals: Solid, naturally occurring substances that are not derived from living organisms.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Wheatgrass
- Wikipedia's article - Wheatgrass
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