Characterized by abdominal pain, diarrhea, fever, weight loss and blood in the stools, ulcerative colitis is a bowel disease involving the lining of the colon and rectum. Although scientists haven't determined the exact cause of ulcerative colitis, it can be triggered by certain foods or stress, and may be managed with medication, surgery or dietary changes. Wheatgrass is one food that may help improve ulcerative colitis symptoms.
Research
Although few studies exist examining the effects of wheatgrass on human health, some research suggests wheatgrass may have a positive effect on ulcerative colitis. According to a study published in the April 2002 issue of the "Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology," ulcerative colitis patients experienced improvements in rectal bleeding, bowel movement frequency and vision examination results after drinking wheatgrass juice daily for one month. However, because this study included only 21 participants, larger studies are needed before wheatgrass can be conclusively recommended as a treatment for ulcerative colitis.
Misconceptions
Some wheatgrass advocates claim that this food improves your digestive health because of its high content of chlorophyll and enzymes, resulting in enhanced digestion, a cleaner colon and relief from ulcerative colitis. Although wheatgrass may have a positive impact on ulcerative colitis, its chlorophyll and enzyme content are probably not the reason. According to the National Council Against Health Fraud, chlorophyll isn't absorbed by the human body, and enzymes in wheatgrass become deactivated by stomach acid before they can provide any health benefits.
Other Benefits
Wheatgrass products, especially wheatgrass juice, can be a beneficial part of an ulcerative colitis treatment diet. As PubMed Health explains, the prescribed diet for ulcerative colitis includes small, frequent meals, avoidance of high fiber foods, avoidance of high-fat or greasy foods and a high intake of liquids. Wheatgrass juice can supply a concentrated dose of nutrients -- including vitamins A, C and E and the minerals magnesium, calcium and iron -- without overloading your menu with fiber, fat or other substances that trigger ulcerative colitis symptoms. In addition, wheatgrass juice can help contribute to your daily liquid intake to further relieve symptoms.
Considerations
If you want to use wheatgrass to help control your ulcerative colitis symptoms, consult your physician to discuss a treatment plan. In some cases, wheatgrass can become contaminated with mold or bacteria during the growing process, which can later cause foodborne illness and symptoms that mimic those of ulcerative colitis. If you have celiac disease or other forms of wheat intolerance, you may need to avoid wheatgrass products.
References
- MayoClinic.com; What is Wheatgrass -- and Why Is It In My Drink?; Brent A. Bauer, M.D.; October 15, 2010
- PubMed Health: Ulcerative Colitis
- "Scandinavian Journal of Gastroenterology"; Wheat Grass Juice in the Treatment of Active Ulcerative Colitis; April 2002
- National Council Against Health Fraud; Wheatgrass Therapy; William T. Jarvis; 1998
