What is it Wednesday? – Wheat Germ

What it looks like?

What is it?

Wheat germ is a part of the wheat kernel.

Wheat germ can become rancid if not properly stored in a refrigerator or freezer.

Health benefits?

Wheat germ is a concentrated source of several essential nutrients which include the following:

• Vitamin E
• Folate (folic acid)
• Phosphorus
• Thiamin
• Zinc
• Magnesium
• Essential fatty acids

It contains a good amount of protein and has a low glycemic index which means its effect on blood sugar levels is mild.

How to use it?

Wheat Germ can be added to protein shakes, casseroles, muffins, pancakes, cereals, yogurt, cookies and other baked goods.

VC&C thoughts:

I’ve actually used wheat germ once before.  Last year I used it when I made Irish Soda Bread.  It was easy to use and work with however, be sure to store it properly (in the fridge or freezer) or else it will go bad quickly.  Unfortunately, this was the case for me 🙁

Comment away – I am by no means an expert on Wheat Germ so feel free to leave more information in the comments.

Please feel free to let me know, in the comments, what food items you would like to know more about.  I will feature it on an upcoming, “What is it Wednesday?” post!

Check out last weeks post on Nutritional Yeast.