How to Consume Raw Wheat Germ

Wheat is an annual grass originating from the Mediterranean area.

Wheat germ is the part of the wheat kernel and, if planted, could grow into a new wheat plant. It is high in fiber, essential fatty acids and vitamin E. When added to a well-balanced diet, wheat germ can turbo-charge your diet, making it easy to get the daily recommended amount of insoluble fiber that can protect against colon cancer. Wheat germ also is a good source of calcium, iron, magnesium, potassium, selenium and other vitamins and minerals that are essential to a well-balanced diet.

Instructions

1. Mix 2 to 3 tbsp. of wheat germ into yogurt in the morning. Low-fat yogurt is a good source of calcium and protein and is low in calories and fat. Adding 2 tbsp. of wheat germ to yogurt adds about an additional 50 calories, but also 4 g of protein and 2 g of fiber.

2. Sprinkle wheat germ on top of salads at lunch and dinner. Adding wheat germ instead of croutons eliminates empty calories from processed bread products, and it adds the nutritional benefits of protein and fiber to your salad.

3. Mix wheat germ in with pancake or waffle batter. Blending 2 to 3 tbsp. per serving of batter will make an otherwise low-nutrient breakfast into one that is full of nutritional benefits.

References

• Encyclopedia Britannica: Wheat
• VegPeace.org: Wheat: Anti-Cancer, Antioxidants, Phytochemicals
• Self NutritionData: Wheat Germ, Crude