Wheat Germ: 6 Benefits & Uses

Wheat germ is a small part of the wheat kernel. It provides the body with many nutrients, including thiamine, folate, phosphorus, manganese and selenium. During the refining process, the part of the kernel that contains wheat germ is often stripped away. To reap the benefits of wheat germ, look for products that are labeled 100% whole wheat. Wheat germ benefits include the ability to improve heart health, promote digestive regularity, stabilize blood sugar and even help block cancer growth.

Wheat Germ Benefits

1. Provides the Body With Antioxidants

Wheat germ benefits include the ability to provide the body with disease-fighting antioxidants. Wheat germ contains Vitamin E, which helps protect the body from damage caused by free radicals. Antioxidants can help reduce the risk of diseases like cancer, diabetes and heart disease. Studies have shown that wheat germ benefits include the ability to increase the antioxidant activity in the body. (1)

2. Promotes Regularity

Wheat germ benefits include the ability to promote regularity. It provides the body with a healthy dose of fiber, which helps prevent constipation and other digestive problems. Adding wheat germ to your oatmeal, smoothie or yogurt can provide a dietary fiber boost.

3. Stabilizes Blood Sugar

Wheat germ benefits include the ability to naturally stabilize blood sugar levels. The fiber in wheat germ benefits blood sugar by slowing the absorption of sugar into the blood stream. Fiber helps to prevent dips and spikes in blood sugar levels. Thanks to the fiber it contains, wheat germ benefits those who struggle with diabetes. (2)

4. Improves Heart Health

Wheat germ benefits include the ability to improve heart health. It's a whole grain, and consumption of whole grains has been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease. Wheat germ is packed with vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that promote heart health, lower cholesterol levels and prevent arteriosclerosis.

5. Helps With Weight Goals

Wheat germ benefits those who are looking to lose weight, gain weight or maintain a healthy weight. Adding a large amount of wheat germ to your diet can help promote healthy weight gain. If your goal is to lose weight or maintain your weight, wheat germ can still be a part of your diet. It provides the body with essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that help strengthen the immune system, boost metabolism and promote healthy weight loss.

6. May Help Block Cancer Growth

Research suggests that wheat germ benefits may include the ability to block cancer growth, thanks to its high antioxidant content. Fermented wheat germ extract, called avemar, has shown promising results when studied for its ability to treat and prevent cancer. According to a study conducted at the Medical University of Vienna, avemar was able to induce cell death and stop the growth of colon cancer cells. Another study, published in the Journal of Experimental & Clinical Cancer Research, found that avemar possessed powerful anti-tumor properties. (3)