Wheatgrass is a type of grass that is claimed to have many nutritional benefits. Wheatgrass is often juiced with a fruit and vegetable juicer. Research on the health benefits and effectiveness of wheatgrass juice are lacking and safety during pregnancy has not been determined as of 2011. Speak with your midwife or obstetrician regarding the use of wheatgrass juice during pregnancy, especially if your body isn't already accustomed to it.
Safety During Pregnancy
The safety of wheatgrass juice during pregnancy is unclear. The beverage has not been tested on pregnant women, so the true safety is really unknown. The big concern with using wheatgrass during pregnancy is that the juice is consumed raw. If the wheatgrass is grown in contaminated soil, or is contaminated during the harvest, dangerous bacteria could be present. Wheatgrass juice may also have a cleansing effect on the body in larger doses; therefore it could cause complications during pregnancy. Individuals who are used to consuming wheatgrass juice prior to pregnancy may not experience the cleansing effect. Talk to your doctor prior to using wheatgrass juice.
Possible Benefits
Wheatgrass contains many vitamins and minerals including iron, calcium, chlorophyll as well as vitamins A, E and C. The nutrient content of wheatgrass juice makes it very healthy and can be counted as part of your daily serving of vegetables. While it may be a good way to increase these nutrients in your diet, there is no evidence to support claims that it cures any illness or disease. The fiber in wheatgrass may also help counteract constipation. Pregnant women should continue to take a daily prenatal vitamin while using wheatgrass unless otherwise advised by a physician or midwife.
Use
If you decide that wheatgrass juice is right for you during your pregnancy, you have to decide how to use it. Some people drink it plain, though it may have somewhat of an acquired taste. As the name implies, wheatgrass does have a grassy taste, though it is sweet as well. Wheatgrass juice can also be added to smoothies and other vegetable or fruit juices to disguise the taste.
Considerations
Some people may be allergic to wheatgrass. Allergies to wheatgrass exhibit as a rash, hives, swelling in the face and throat and difficulty breathing; if you have any of these symptoms, contact emergency medical personnel immediately. Since science has not proven that wheatgrass is unsafe during pregnancy, it's up to you and your health care provider to decide if the benefits outweigh the risks.
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