We all lead busy lives and frequently look for all-encompassing answers to assist us in managing a variety of health and wellbeing challenges. Utilising wheat germ oil, which is made from the kernels of wheat grains, in our regular diets is one such solution.
Wheat germ oil is one of the many beneficial oils that are sold in supermarkets, and it has recently gained popularity. The Indian household is familiar with wheat. Whole wheat flour is lovingly used to produce a variety of Indian bread, including loaded parathas, airy rotis, baturas, and the like, whereas the refined form, maida, is disliked by many.
It is an oil that offers a plentiful source of potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, Vitamin B6, and folic acid, a member of the Vitamin B complex family. In addition, it contains a number of additional nutrients that are necessary for a balanced diet.
“The nutritional value of wheat germ (WG) is well acknowledged as a raw ingredient for food product formulations or as a food in and of itself. Common uses include the manufacturing of wheat-germ oil, snack foods, breakfast cereal supplements, and bread enhanced with wheat germ. The majority of uses for wheat germ, which has an average oil content of 8% to 14%, are in the food, pharmaceutical, and cosmetic industries “According to a study conducted by the Faculty of Agriculture of the University of Fayoum University, Egypt.
Wheat germ oil is more nutrient-dense than most other grain and vegetable oils. It provides a number of health advantages because it makes up close to 25% of the wheat grain’s total nutrients.
Nutritional Value
- Calories: 884 kcal
- Total fat content: 100g
- Saturated fatty acids: 18.8 g
- Monounsaturated fatty acids: 15.1 g
- Polyunsaturated fats: 61.7 g
- Choline: 20 mg
- Vitamin E: 149 mg
- Vitamin K: 27.7 μg
Calories
Wheat germ oil contains roughly 884 kcal per 100 gram. Therefore, one tablespoon of wheat germ oil has 120 Kcal.
Carbohydrates
There are no carbohydrates in wheat germ oil, including starch, fibre, or sugar. The glycemic index of wheat germ oil is zero in the absence of carbs. Glycemic index zero indicates that there is no impact on blood sugar levels.
Fats
A source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, which are often known as healthy fats, is wheat germ oil. Both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids are present. Along with linoleic acid, it also contains alpha-linolenic acid. Along with saturated fatty acids, it also includes beneficial monounsaturated fatty acids. Omega-6 (linoleic acid) fatty acids are eight times more abundant in wheat germ oil than omega-3 (linolenic acid) fatty acids.
Benefits of Wheat Germ Oil
A Source of Numerous Antioxidants
Vitamin E, a potent antioxidant, is found in abundance in wheat germ oil. “It assists in preventing damage from free radicals. Wheat germ, which comes from the centre of the wheat kernel, is known to contain at least 23 different nutrients, including vitamins A, B, D, and E “explains Shonali Sabherwal, a Mumbai-based macrobiotic nutritionist, chef, and instructor. All of these vitamins support the body’s functioning, especially the health of the skin.
According to Dr. Manoj K. Ahuja of Fortis Hospital, “Vitamin E travels throughout the body neutralising free radicals that might otherwise damage fat-containing components including cell membranes and brain cells.” Additionally, it lessens oxidative stress.
A Fabulous Face Wash
Natural oil made from wheat germ aids in effectively washing the face. In addition to removing extra sebum, which could cause additional skin issues like acne and pimples, it also aids in sealing moisture back into the skin. Shilpa Arora, a New Delhi-based health practitioner, nutritionist, and certified macrobiotic health coach, claims that because it is non-comedogenic, it does not clog pores. You can apply a few drops of the oil to your skin or include it in face packs or masks.
Reducing Cholesterol
“Octacosanol, a long-chain fatty acid containing alcohol that supports and helps with physical performance, including strength and stamina, is abundant in it. The cardiovascular advantages of octacosanol may be due to the compound’s capacity to influence fat metabolism, lower cholesterol production (helping to lower LDL), and prevent artery hardening, according to research “says renowned Bangalore-based nutritionist Dr. Anju Sood. “Wheat germ oil includes the goodness of omega-3 fatty acids, which help in methodically regulating the nervous system,” the author continues.
Treats Skin Scars
Wheat germ oil, which has a high vitamin E level, aids in the formation of collagen, the body’s most prevalent protein that gives the skin its tensile strength and structure. “The oil heals, avoids scarring, and repairs. In fact, scars that are regularly applied can be totally removed. To avoid losing the majority of its nutrients, make sure the oil is cold-pressed and entirely organic “Shilpa advises, “rients. “Wheat germ oil contains fatty acids, vitamin A, and vitamin D that aid with broken, scarred skin by giving it an even tone. Additionally, it naturally hydrates the skin, “Shonali says.
Works as a hair conditioner
The usage of wheat germ oil in hair care products is beneficial. “It functions as a hair nourisher and is high in linoleic acid. Apply it to the scalp in a mixture of 10:1 wheat germ oil and other carrier oils, such as olive and sesame (10 parts carrier oil and 1 part wheat germ oil). Before rinsing the hair, let it on for a while, “the clinical operations and coordination manager at Baidyanath, Dr. Ashutosh Gautam.
Possesses anti-aging qualities
Wheat germ oil is touted as having anti-aging properties for the skin since it is an excellent source of the vitamins B6, folic acid, and E. “Strong antioxidant vitamin E helps to maintain healthy skin by preventing various skin conditions like psoriasis, eczema, and dry skin. On the other hand, vitamin B encourages tissue growth and assists in mending tissue damage “Dr. Sood says.
Anti Diebetic Effects
A study evaluates wheat germ oil’s effects on diabetes. It showed that wheat germ oil dramatically lowered the levels of HDL cholesterol, fasting blood sugar, HbA1c, serum lipid profile, and insulin. In diabetic patients, persistent hyperglycemia increased the generation of free radicals. Strong antioxidant properties in wheat germ oil scavenge free radicals and lessen oxidative damage. The research demonstrated the anti-diabetic, anti-hyperlipidemic, and antioxidant effects of high doses of wheat germ oil. It also has safeguarding properties against diabetic complications.
Conclusion
A very healthy oil called wheat germ oil is obtained from the wheat grain’s germ. It is a good source of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as tocopherols, or vitamin E. It has anti-hyperlipidemic, anti-inflammatory, anti-diabetic, cardioprotective, anti-aging, and antioxidant effects. Although wheat germ oil is recognised to have several health advantages, it also has potential drawbacks. There is not enough information available on wheat germ oil to draw any conclusions.
In addition, wheat germ oil must be stored under specific circumstances. Poor storage practises can cause rancidity, or spoiling and the loss of flavour and vital nutrients. Additionally, due to its short shelf life, you must consume it within two to three months of opening to prevent deterioration.
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