Wheatgrass Vs Spirulina: Which Is Better?
If you’re seeking a nutritious health enhancement method, you may wonder: “wheatgrass vs spirulina, what should you use?” These superfoods are packed with vitamins, minerals, and other health-promoting compounds. But, there are some critical differences between them.
Wheatgrass is grass commonly juiced or blended into smoothies. It is a rich source of chlorophyll, thought to detoxify and has alkalizing abilities. Wheatgrass also abounds in vitamins A, C, and E and minerals like iron and calcium.
Spirulina, a blue-green alga, is most popular in powdered and tablet forms. It is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and is also high in antioxidants. Spirulina strengthens immunity and may also help with cholesterol levels.
So, which is the better choice? Dive in for a better analysis.
Spirulina Vs Wheatgrass – Let the Battle Begin!
When it comes to wheatgrass vs. spirulina, both are excellent superfoods. However, nutritional profiles, best health benefits, and side effects vary.
Nutritional Value
Wheatgrass is rich in vitamins A, C, and E, plus minerals like iron. It also has extensive chlorophyll reserves (70%), providing the body with many merits like detox.
But, does wheatgrass give you energy? Does wheatgrass break a fast? The supplement helps boost energy, providing 25 calories in a teaspoon. If on a ketosis diet, this supply is inadequate to consider it breaking a fast.
Wheatgrass’ nutritional constituents in 8g(1 TBSP) include
- 25 calories
- 1g protein
- 24mg calcium
- 6g carbs
- 4g fiber
- 86mcg vitamin k
- 1mg iron
- Zero fat.
One of the biggest worries when dealing with food or supplements is allergic reactions. So, does wheatgrass have caffeine or gluten? Like spirulina, wheatgrass has no gluten or caffeine, making it gentle to many.
Spirulina is an excellent source of protein, vitamins, and minerals, and is also high in antioxidants. One tablespoon (8g) of spirulina powder contains these ingredients:
- 23.2 calories
- 2g carbs
- 4.59g protein
- 9.6mg calcium
- 4g fiber
- 2.23mg iron
- 108.8mcg vitamin k
- 0.5mg fat
Health Benefits
Many superfoods including spirulina boast of improving cardiovascular health. Is wheatgrass in the same category? Does wheatgrass lower blood pressure? Yes, it is rich in chlorophyll, known to help to improve circulation and reduce stress levels.
While cardiovascular health is a big deal, wheatgrass is famous for its anticancer properties. Its chlorophyll protects against cancer by binding to carcinogens and helping the body to eliminate them. Also, its antioxidants help counter cell damage.
Other wheatgrass benefits are:
- Boosts the immune system
- Aids in digestion
- Reduces inflammation
- Promotes healthy skin, and hair
- Lowers blood pressure
- Reduces stress and anxiety.
Although not as excellent as wheatgrass at anticancer properties and other chlorophyll-related strongholds, spirulina has the same merits above.
Where spirulina shines the most is its huge protein supplies, excellent for body repair and improvements. Before and after a good workout, 70% protein can do wonders to boost your muscle development. Plus, you get it at a lesser heart disease risk than animal protein.
Side Effects
Spirulina is a relatively safe supplement, even in high doses. The most common side effects of spirulina are gut-related issues like upsets and nausea. Other side effects may include headaches and trouble sleeping.
People with autoimmune conditions or allergies should avoid spirulina, as it may trigger an immune response. The supplement isn’t fit for those with PKU and bleeding issues too. Speak to a doctor if considering spirulina while pregnant or lactating to determine its suitability.
Like spirulina, there aren’t significant wheatgrass side effects. It’s okay for most adults with oral usage up to 18 months considered safe. The most common wheatgrass harmful effects include constipation, appetite loss, and nausea.
How To Take
You can take spirulina and wheatgrass in several ways. The most typical way is to mix them with water or add them to a smoothie or juice. You can also take them in tablet or capsule form.
The preferred dose is 1-2 teaspoons of spirulina powder or 1-5 grams of tablets/capsules daily. Higher doses of up to 10 grams per day are popular during uses like detox. For wheatgrass, use similar powder amounts or 1-4g of tablet/capsule daily.
Like wheatgrass, the best time to take spirulina is on an empty stomach in the morning. However, spirulina is more flexible in usage time. You can whip it into a quick smoothie or add it to your favorite meal at lunchtime or before bed.
Here’s a table that summarizes wheatgrass vs. spirulina’s key similarities and differences.
| Wheatgrass | Spirulina | |
| Type | Grass | Algae |
| Nutritional Value | Up to 70% chlorophyll plus many minerals 20% protein | Excellent supplier of nutrients not readily available in most foods or supplements 70% protein Not as many minerals or chlorophyll as wheatgrass. |
| Available Form | Capsule, Juice, Powder, Tablets | Capsules, Tablets, Powder |
| Best For | Those who want to enhance their immunity, improve digestion, and lower cancer risk. | Those who want to feel great while improving their energy levels and overall health. |
FAQS: Keep Up with the Biggest Queries on Wheatgrass and Spirulina.
Is Wheatgrass Beneficial to the Liver?
Wheatgrass is beneficial to the liver because it contains chlorophyll that detoxifies the body. Wheatgrass also contains vitamins A, C, and E, essential for liver health. Finally, wheatgrass is a natural source of antioxidants, which can help protect the liver from damage.
Is Wheatgrass the Same as Wheat?
Wheatgrass is the same as wheat plants though the stages of harvesting vary. The grass gets cut when young, while wheat is cut when the plant matures. Wheat undergoes milling to create gluten-containing flour, while wheatgrass makes a gluten-free juice.
Can You Take Spirulina and Wheatgrass Together?
You can take spirulina and wheatgrass together. They are both superfoods that offer many health benefits. They are also both easy to add to your diet.
Is There Anything Better Than Spirulina?
There is always something better than spirulina, depending on which nutrients you need. For instance, chlorella is better than spirulina for detoxing the body due to its higher chlorophyll content. However, Spirulina contains more zinc giving it an edge over chlorella in immunity enhancement.
What Is Similar to Wheatgrass?
Barley grass is similar to wheatgrass in many ways, including its appearance and nutritional value. Both are superfoods and are common in health-enhancement juice and smoothie recipes.
Does Wheatgrass Have Protein?
Wheatgrass has protein, helping the body nurture and repair itself. One serving (8g) provides around a gram of protein.
Conclusion
To summarize, wheatgrass or spirulina, which is better?
Wheatgrass is young wheat. It is rich in chlorophyll, responsible for most of its health merits. Wheatgrass has lots of vitamins like C, E, and A, plus minerals like magnesium, potassium, and iron.
Spirulina is a type of algae often consumed as a dietary supplement. It is rich in protein, vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Spirulina is beneficial for the immune system and may help improve cognitive function.
If you’re looking for a nutrient-rich food that can help to boost your health, spirulina is the clear winner. However, if you’re looking for something that can help to detoxify your body or improve your digestion, wheatgrass may be a better choice.
But you know what is more interesting than a wheatgrass-spirulina smoothie? Throwing chlorella into the mix. Try some of our selections for the best chlorella spirulina supplements with wheatgrass for an enhanced health boost.
Another option is to get Sunlit BodyBrite Superfood Powder. This product is infused with spirulina, wheatgrass, and even chlorella.
