Wheat germ is embryo of the wheat grain/seed. It is full of vitamins and minerals and nourishes the germinating plant. It provides all essential nutrition to new growing plant. This itself explains the nutritional value of the germ. Since it constitutes only three percent of the kernel, therefore approximately twenty kg of wheat grains will provide 400 grams of wheat germ. Wheat germ is edible and offers countless health benefits.
Only two tablespoons of raw wheat germ will provide about 1.5 grams of unsaturated fat, 9 grams of carbohydrates, 4 grams of protein, 2 grams dietary fibre, 2 grams of sugars, no cholesterol and about 60 calories.
Wheat germ also contains many essential nutrients which are required by our body to perform optimally. Regular intake of this super food protects body from diseases and promotes good health.
- Good source of B Complex vitamins
Wheat germ is good source of B complex vitamins which includes folate, thiamine, and vitamin B6. - Good source of Vitamin E
Wheat germ is very rich in antioxidant vitamin E required by body for scavenging free radicals responsible for cell damage, ageing and many diseases. - Phytosterols
Phytosterols are steroid compounds similar to cholesterol. These compound can lower unhealthy cholesterol and thus contributes to good cardiovascular health. - Lowers cholesterol, LDL and triglycerides
A study has shown daily intake of around 30 gms or 1/4 cup wheat germ for fourteen weeks helped to lower total cholesterol by 7.2 percent. It also lowered LDL by 15.4 percent and triglycerides by 11.3 percent. - Good source of omega-3 fatty acids
Wheat germ is excellent source of good source of omega-3 fatty acids required for healthy nervous system. - Good source of Minerals
Wheat germ is good source of mineral such as iron, zinc, magnesium, calcium, selenium, and manganese.
Wheat germ comes in form of a coarse powder. It can be eaten as a breakfast cereal or added to with other grains. It can be used to prepare various dishes such as pancakes, protein shakes, oatmeal, muffins etc. You can eat this with dairy products, nuts, and other grains.