Health Benefits Of Wheat Germ - Nutritional Value Of Wheat Germ, Nutrition Benefits Of Eating Wheat Germ

Wheat germ is a small part of the wheat grain, known as wheat kernel or wheat berry. It is the reproductive part of the kernel, which is removed during the processing of whole-wheat grains, into white flour. Making only up to 2 or 3 percent of the entire wheat kernel, wheat germ contains 23 nutrients, and has more nutrients per ounce than any other vegetable or grain. Thus, it is counted as one of the top 10 healthiest foods that can be included in a balanced diet. It is easily available in the health stores and supermarkets, in toasted as well as fresh form. It is also used in place of flour and bread crumbs in different preparations. Read on further to know about the nutritional value of wheat germ, along with its health and nutrition benefits.

Nutritional Value of Wheat Germ

Amount of Wheat Germ: 1 cup

Total Weight of Wheat Germ: 115 g

Nutrients	Amount
Basic Components
Protein	26.6 g
Water	12.8 g
Ash	4.8 g
Calories
Total Calories	414
Calories From Carbohydrate	225
Calories From Fat	93.6
Calories From Protein	95.6
Calories From Protein	95.6
Carbohydrates
Total Carbohydrate	59.6 g
Dietary Fiber	15.2 g
Fats & Fatty Acids
Total Fat	11.2 g
Saturated Fat	1.9 g
Monounsaturated Fat	1.6 g
Polyunsaturated Fat	6.9 g
Total Omega-3 Fatty Acids	831 mg
Total Omega-6 Fatty Acids	6081 mg
Vitamins
Thiamin	2.2 mg
Riboflavin	0.6 mg
Niacin	7.8 mg
Vitamin B6	1.5 mg
Folate	323 mcg
Pantothenic Acid	2.6 mg
Minerals
Calcium	44.9 mg
Iron	7.2 mg
Magnesium	275 mg
Phosphorus	968 mg
Potassium	1026 mg
Sodium	13.8 mg
Zinc	14.1 mg
Copper	0.9 mg
Manganese	15.3 mg
Selenium	91.1 mcg

Nutrition & Health Benefits Of Eating Wheat Germ

Wheat germ contains antioxidant and anti-aging properties that are good for skin, nails and hair.
It helps in fighting against muscular disorders such as muscular dystrophy and neuron-muscular problems.
It lowers bad cholesterol levels and blood pressure, and promotes a healthy heart.
With 28% protein content, wheat germ repairs tissue damage and helps minerals and nutrients to reach our cells.
It helps in improving muscular energy, reflexes and utilization of oxygen during exercising.
Wheat germ helps in providing vitality, longevity and endurance during exercise.
It enables the body to adjust during stress.
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, wheat germ helps in elevating mood and regulates the functioning of the nervous system.
It helps in preventing certain types of birth defects.
Since wheat germ is a good source of fiber, it improves bowel function, reduces the risk of developing heart disease and diabetes and prevents weight gain.
It is extremely beneficial for women, since it alleviates premenstrual symptoms and menopausal symptoms.
Wheat germ is one of the richest foods in vitamin B-complex that are good for metabolism and handling stress.
It fights colon cancer, prevents constipation and improves digestion.

Tips

Due to its texture and nutty, slightly sweet flavor, wheat germ is toasted and used in many recipes. It is even sprinkled on salads, soups and vegetable dishes.
Toasted wheat germ is used in breakfast cereals, oatmeal, pancakes and waffle mixes, smoothies, yoghurt, breads and muffin mixes, cottage cheese, homemade protein bars and casseroles.
It is also used as a substitute for breadcrumbs, in various recipes.
Since wheat germ is likely to become rancid quickly, it should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, after opening.
For a longer shelf life, wheat germ would better be stored frozen.

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