Precautions of Wheatgrass Juice

Wheatgrass is chlorophyll extracted from seven-day-old wheat sprouts, which are reportedly high in vitamins. Many people believe that, when consumed as a juice or tea, it supports the immune system, kills harmful bacteria in the digestive tract and rids the body of toxins and wastes. A small study indicated that wheatgrass helped reduce symptoms of ulcerative colitis, an inflammation of the large intestine and rectum.

Side Effects

• Read directions before eating or drinking wheatgrass for the first time. It has a sugar content and a strong laxative effect, which can induce nausea, especially if consumed with other foods. It should be taken on an empty stomach. If you are drinking wheatgrass juice for the first time, drink 1 oz. per day and build up over a week or more to 2 oz. per day, taken in separate, 1 oz. servings.

Allergic Reactions

• Some people develop headaches, hives or swelling in the throat within minutes of drinking wheatgrass juice, which may be an allergic reaction and could become more severe with repeated exposure.
  Wheatgrass frequently develops mold, which is potentially harmful to people who have mold allergies. Some growers believe that the presence of mold contributes to the juice's laxative effect.
  Advice varies over whether people who are allergic to wheat can safely eat wheatgrass. Wheatgrass growers, such as Amazing Grass, say that wheatgrass doesn’t contain gluten, which is what causes allergic reactions in many people who eat wheat. However, the Nutrition Supplements Center advises people with wheat sensitivity to avoid wheatgrass.

Bacteria

• Be aware of possible bacterial contamination. Wheatgrass is grown in soils or water and consumed raw, and may come into contact with bacteria. For this reason, women who are pregnant or breast-feeding should not use wheatgrass, the American Cancer Society warns.