At Rising Fitness in Houston, Texas, we use a holistic approach that uses science to focus on exercise and nutrition, while providing a sense of community. Switching from white bread to whole wheat is one way to boosting your health and there are also benefits of wheat germ oil. When white flour is processed, the bran and wheat germ are removed, all that is left is the endosperm, which has few nutrients. The bran of the wheat berry provides fiber, while the wheat germ provides all the nutrients. It only makes sense that oil made from the nutrient rich core would be beneficial for your health.
Wheat germ oil is high in nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids.
The germ has most of the nutrients and is approximately 10-14% oil, so it makes sense that using the oil from the germ would be nutrient rich. There are two ways to extract the oil, one is pressing and the other with a chemical solvent. It has a good supply of omega-3 fatty acids, but it also contains about 8 times more omega-6, which is two to four times as high as ideal. It also contains vitamins A, B, D and E. Some benefits occur when used as a lotion, while others come from taking the oil internally.
Wheat Germ oil has antioxidants.
Wheat germ oil has been used for centuries to apply to the skin to prevent wrinkling, but you can also ingest it to protect the whole body. It helps prevent oxidative stress, which when applied locally, can reduce scars, minimize wrinkles and boost the collagen production. When taken internally, it can help reduce oxidative stress and free radicals, which helps prevent developing chronic disease. Wheat germ oil can also improve your brain functioning. The antioxidants help fight damage that causes beta-amyloid plaque to form in the brain. Besides lowering the risk for neurodegenerative disease, the antioxidants also help improve attention span and memory.
Wheat germ oil may be good for obesity and the prevention of diabetes.
Taking wheat germ oil can boost your metabolism, which means you burn more calories, making weight loss easier. It’s a healthy oil that fills you up, but doesn’t cause fat deposits in the process. Use it in moderation, however. Besides weight loss, the magnesium in it can help control blood sugar levels, which also is important for preventing diabetes.
- Wheat germ oil has been known to lower cholesterol levels due to the omega-3. It does contain omega-6, so if you already have problems with cholesterol, be careful.
- The omega-3 in wheat germ can provide quick usable energy for muscles. It also boosts circulation, which can improve energy levels. It also can be used externally on the hair, skin and nails. It’s helps abrasions heal quicker.
- There are precautions when taking wheat germ oil internally. If you’re taking blood pressure medication or medication for blood sugar, it can cause blood pressure or blood sugar to drop too much.
- Before you start supplementing with wheat germ oil, always speak to your health care professional. That’s especially true of anyone with wheat allergies or gluten intolerance.
For more information, contact us today at Rising Fitness Gym