Wheat germ is the best part of the wheat kernel which is full of all the goodness of grains. The plant of wheat is a long grass bearing wheat berries on the top. These wheat berries contain 3 parts among which the outer layer of wheat is called bran. The second part i.e, the endosperm is powdered to obtain flour and the third part - the inner part of the wheat is the sprout or germ, that is, the grain. Wheat germ accounts for only 2.5 to 3.8 percent of the total weight of wheat but this part is the most nutritious of the rest of the wheat. Generally, wheat germ is also called the embryo of grain in which the seeds germinate.

Nutrients in Wheat germ

Wheat germ contains a variety of antioxidants, triglycerides, and minerals that help the body perform various functions. Zinc, calcium, protein, phosphorus, potassium and magnesium are all packed inside the germ and make it a great source of energy. These nutrients play a vital role in keeping the body healthy by strengthening the immune system.

Apart from this, it is also rich in thiamine, folate, manganese, carbohydrates & fibers.

Benefits of Wheat germ

For constipation-

Lack of fiber in food causes constipation. Using wheat germ is thus beneficial for the body because it is rich in fiber. Including a rich amount of fiber in your diet removes the problem of constipation.

For the immune system-

A diet rich in fiber is considered good for the immune system. Apart from this, it is also good for the gastrointestinal system as it helps to clear the harmful microbes from the stomach. Wheat germ also helps in the proliferation of good bacteria in the body therefore consuming fiber-rich food like wheat germ works to improve the immune system.

For heart health-

According to research, the microbes present in wheat help in improving heart health that's why nutritionists and health experts recommend eating whole grains for better heart health because it helps to keep the heart healthy and reduce the risks of coronary heart diseases.

For blood sugar-

Since a good amount of fiber is found in wheat germ, it proves to be effective in reducing the response of post-meal or postprandial blood glucose. Therefore, by including wheat germ or whole grains in your diet, type 2 diabetes can be avoided.

For cancer-

According to health experts, antioxidants are great to reduce the risks of cancer. Wheat germ contains a good amount of antioxidants which can help meet the optimum level of antioxidants in the body of a person. Therefore, consumption of wheat germ is great for cancer patients as it helps to fulfill the good nutritional intake in the body.

To reduce obesity-

Taking a diet rich in fiber proves to be helpful in protecting the body from overweight and obesity. Consumption of wheat germ not only provides a sufficient amount of fiber, but also makes the body energetic. Therefore, using wheat germ is a good solution for weight loss.

Side effects & precautions while using Wheat germ

• People who have poor tolerance to gluten or are allergic to it should avoid consuming wheat germ as it contains gluten.
• People who are on a low-carb diet should consume wheat germ in limited quantities as it is rich in carbohydrates.
• Wheat germ oil is rich in triglycerides therefore people with heart diseases should avoid it as high triglycerides levels may have adverse health effects for people with heart diseases.
• Wheat germ extract may cause certain side effects such as diarrhea, nausea, bloating and dizziness.

How is Wheat germ made?

Wheat germ is made by first soaking some good quality wheat grains in water, and covering them with a cloth for 2-3 days. This helps to speed up the process of germination of wheat and sprouts begin to emerge from the wheat. Now use sprouted wheat by mixing it in salad or by cooking it.