This immunity-boosting wheatgrass shot is made by juicing young whole wheat sprouts and contains essential amino acids, vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals.
Fresh and green, this detox drink boasts fantastic health benefits.
Nowadays, wheatgrass supplements are available in stores, but they are not as tasty and effective as this amazing concentrated shot.
It’s easy to make, with just 4 ingredients, and you’ll love the balanced flavors of warm ginger, citrusy lemon, subtly sweet green apple, and earthy wheatgrass.
It is vegan, free from added sugar and salt, and you can whip it in a juicer in under 10 minutes.
Health benefits of wheatgrass
Wheatgrass is rightly called a superfood because of its high density of nutrients. Studies have unraveled some excellent benefits of wheatgrass consumption.
Loaded with antioxidants
This green drink gets its lush color thanks to chlorophyll, a compound that acts as a powerful antioxidant. It is also rich in other phytochemicals that help fight oxidative stress in our bodies.
Helps digestion
While many claim it helps curb hunger, it also reduces bloating and stomach discomfort. And because it relieves constipation and promotes gut health, it can help you lose weight.
Heart healthy
Animal research has revealed that wheatgrass extract lowers cholesterol levels and regulates blood pressure.
Helps reduce inflammation
Many chronic diseases begin with inflammation. Because of its anti-inflammatory nature, wheatgrass may help relieve ulcers and arthritis and possess anticancer properties.
Ingredient notes for the healthiest detox shot
Use fresh wheatgrass
Stale wheatgrass becomes fibrous and cannot be juiced. So I suggest you buy wheatgrass pots or a fresh wheatgrass bunch from a farmer’s market or a supermarket. Also, remember to weed out the yellow grass blades.
Get organic wheatgrass
To avoid pesticide and chemical contamination, try to get wheatgrass from a trusted and organic source. Also, always wash the wheatgrass thoroughly before juicing it to remove dirt.
Different ways to juice wheatgrass
Using a juicer
If you have a juicer, it works best for this drink. I highly recommend it as it efficiently extracts the juice while retaining maximum nutrients.
Using a blender
If you don’t have a juicer, a blender will do. Add some water to the ingredients and blend until smooth.
Drain your juice using a nut milk bag and consume fresh.
Tips to include wheatgrass shot in your diet
Start with a small quantity
Because of its unique composition and characteristic taste, you may take some time to adjust to the wheatgrass juice. Start with a small quantity (15ml at a time) and then ramp up the volume.
Drink water after the shot
A concentrated shot of wheatgrass can unsettle your stomach at times. One simple remedy is to finish your shot by drinking water immediately afterward.
Don’t substitute your breakfast or a meal with this shot
This shot has hardly any calories and cannot replace an entire meal. So, consume this cleansing shot to supplement your breakfast, lunch, or snacks.
Substitutions and flavor variations
Mix with coconut water
To get used to the taste and flavor of wheatgrass, you could dilute it with coconut water. Not only is it naturally sweetened, but it is highly nutritious too.
Use different fruits
Pineapple makes a great replacement if you wish to substitute apples in the recipe.
Add to smoothies
If you find this shot too concentrated, add it to your favorite smoothies.
Best ways to store wheatgrass shots
I prefer drinking it fresh to get the most out of this shot. The longer it interacts with light and air, the more phytoactive compounds break down and lose their value.
Fridge
If you batch prep it or have leftovers, you can store wheatgrass shot in the refrigerator in air-tight glass bottles for up to a week.
Freezer
For long-term storage, you can freeze wheatgrass shots in silicon trays for a few months. Thaw it at 4°C early in the morning and enjoy.
Recipe FAQs
Is it safe to drink wheatgrass shots?
Wheatgrass doesn’t have any harmful side effects. But if you are on blood thinning medications, please consult your physician before starting wheatgrass shots.
You may want to stay away if you have grass, hay, or pollen allergies.
Is this beverage gluten-free?
The wheatgrass stems used in the recipe are technically gluten-free.
However, depending on how they are harvested, there could be gluten contamination from the wheat covering. So, if you have severe gluten allergies, double-check the source. Or you could also grow wheatgrass at home.
How does it taste?
I have balanced this recipe with spicy and aromatic ginger, tangy lemon, and sweet-tart green apple. You’ll find the taste of this shot pleasing and mildly earthy.
When should I drink this shot?
Although you can enjoy it any time of the day, drinking on an empty stomach is better for nutrient absorption. This step will also prevent nausea.
Can I grow wheatgrass at home?
Yes, certainly. It is straightforward to grow at home. Rinse whole wheat grains in clean water and soak them in water for two days. Change the water every 10-12 hours and repeat until you see tiny sprouts.
Then spread them on moist soil and cover them with a damp kitchen towel. Water them every day and grow them away from light.
In about 9-10 days, you’ll see the grass blade splitting. From this moment on, you can harvest the grass for juice.
Looking for other ways to incorporate wheatgrass? Check out my Liver Detox Smoothie. Also, if you’re into shots, make sure to check out my Ginger Shots for a quick immune boost.
If you make any of these recipes don’t forget to tag me on Instagram @theawesomegreen so I can see them and share with the community!
Wheatgrass Shots
Ingredients
- 25 g fresh wheatgrass stems
- 1 green apple
- 1/2 inch ginger knob peeled
- 1/2 lemon peeled
Instructions
- Juice the ingredients alternatively.
- Mix and drink within 15 mins to avoid oxidation.
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