Spelt Flour: 9 Benefits & Uses

Spelt flour is a grain that's closely related to wheat. It was considered a diet staple in parts of Europe, centuries ago. Today, it can be found in many health food stores. Spelt flour can be used as an alternative option to wheat flour, for those who have a gluten sensitivity. It does contain some gluten, but it is easier to digest and and tolerate, compare to wheat. Spelt flour benefits include the ability to boost the immune system, aid in digestion, decrease cholesterol levels and more.

Spelt Flour Benfeits

1. Promotes Circulation

Spelt flour benefits include the ability to promote circulation. It contains copper and iron, which help transport oxygen throughout the blood. Thanks to its iron content, spelt flour can help prevent an iron deficiency, which is commonly linked to anemia. Studies suggest that spelt flour may work as a natural anemia treatment.

2. Builds Strong Bones

Thanks to the calcium and phosphorus it contains, spelt flour benefits include strong bones. Studies have shown that calcium and phosphorus work together to strengthen bones and maintain bone strength. (1)

3. Boosts the Immune System

Spelt flour benefits include the ability to give the immune system a natural boost. The wide range of vitamins and minerals it contains can help fight inflammation and strengthen the immune system. The thiamine in spelt flour works to fight off chronic stress that can weaken the immune system. (2)

4. Aids in Digestion

As a high-fiber food, spelt flour benefits the digestive system. The body utilizes fiber to help flush out toxins, waste, fat and cholesterol from the gut. It also helps improve digestion and heart health. High-fiber diets can help prevent digestive disorders, including constipation, diverticulitis and inflammatory bowel disease.

5. Decreases Cholesterol

Spelt flour benefits include the ability to naturally lower cholesterol levels. The fiber in spelt flour targets LDL cholesterol and eliminates it from the body. High-fiber foods, like spelt flour, can help reduce cholesterol, improve digestion and increase heart health. (3)

6. Reduces High Blood Pressure

Studies have shown that a high-fiber diet can help prevent hypertension. Consuming spelt flour and other high-fiber foods can help naturally reduce high blood pressure and lower the risk of serious health conditions, including heart attack and stroke. (4)

7. Lowers Blood Sugar Levels

Thanks to the fiber it contains, spelt flour benefits include the ability to lower blood sugar levels. Fiber helps regulate the amount of glucose and insulin released into the body. Research has shown that a high-fiber diet can help prevent and even reverse diabetes.

8. Provides the Body With Manganese

Spelt flour benefits include the ability to provide the body with a healthy dose of manganese. The body uses manganese for nutrient absorption, digestive enzyme production, bone development and more. Manganese can also help treat osteoporosis, by improving bone mass and reduce the risk of fractures.

9. Provides the Body With Niacin

Spelt flour benefits the body by providing it with niacin. Niacin plays an important role in healthy skin formation, diabetes prevention and brain function. Research has shown that niacin can also help lower the risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.