Attacks can happen frequently, in an instant, and often severe. Symptoms include sneezing, watery and itchy eyes, wheezing and blocked sinuses.

Amongst its numerous health benefits, consuming wheat germ may actually be able to prevent and/or relieve some of these debilitating symptoms.

Asthma and Diet

Asthma and related seasonal allergies are on the rise, and studies suggest our diet has a lot to do with this trend. A lack of natural foods in our diet such as fruit, vegetables, nuts and seeds, plus too much processed foods is increasing asthma problems and the number of new cases.

Diet alone should not be solely used to replace asthma medications, but eating more of these natural foods that contain nutrients and antioxidants, enable asthma sufferers to manage their condition much better.

Essential Fatty Acids    

Wheat germ, especially wheat germ oil contains high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are essential for many bodily functions and can be converted in your body to produce compounds that can help reduce inflammation of the lungs. Less inflamed lungs will help you breathe easier.

Vitamin E Benefits

Amongst its many vital roles in the body, vitamin E is needed to help protect every cell in the body from the effects of free radical damage.

Sometimes the body’s cells react and cause inflammatory compounds that release and contribute to the effects of asthma. Just 1 tablespoon of wheat germ is enough to provide you with over 100% of your recommended daily intake of vitamin E.

Magic Magnesium

Studies have shown that a lack of the mineral magnesium in the body is linked to more severe asthma symptoms.

Magnesium is needed to support the contraction and relaxation of the bronchi which carries air to the lungs. A deficiency may impair lung function, cause wheezing and airway spasms.

Wheat germ is a very good source of magnesium, as are nuts, seeds, leafy green vegetables, legumes and prunes.

Conclusion

Who would have guessed that wheat germ can improve your symptoms of asthma and seasonal related allergies?!

Although wheat germ itself is not a cure, it is certainly worth knowing how it can benefit you, even though it may only be in a small way.


If you have any questions or comments regarding wheat germ and asthma, please drop them below.

Latest research, recipes, videos, products and anything that is new to the world of wheat germ will be added here.

To your good health,

Peter

I decided to create this page to let you know what wheat germ and products I personally use, and why. I have also included some books that have significantly changed the way I eat.

My Favorite and Recommended Products:

Toasted Wheat Germ

Kretschmer Honey Crunch Wheatgerm This is my absolute favorite wheat germ product and one I consume virtually every day. It has a delicious honey-nut taste and can be added to so many recipes or just sprinkled onto foods like cereals, soups, smoothies etc.

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Raw Wheat Germ

Fearn NatureFresh Raw Wheat Germ The advantages of buying raw wheat germ is that it is cheaper and also retains more of its nutritional value. You can also toast it as deeply or lightly as you wish. Raw wheat germ can turn rancid quite quickly, but this company ensures no oxygen is allowed in the packaging to keep it fresh. As soon as you open a bag, keep it stored in the freezer and use it straight from there.

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Wheat Germ Oil

Viobin Wheat Germ Oil Wheat germ oil has a greater concentration of omega-3 fatty acids and is one of the richest sources of octacosanol. Octacosanol is a long-chain fatty, waxy alcohol that has been shown to benefit the skin, heart, lower cholesterol levels and act as an anti-inflammatory. It is also used to enhance physical performance for strength and endurance.

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Plant Based Nutrition

The Complete Idiot's Guide to Plant-Based Nutrition If you are concerned about the diet you are currently eating but not sure how to go about making changes, this book is for you! It is very easy to read and understand and has some really good recipes. Just read the reviews it has on Amazon and you'll realize how popular this book is. Warning! Reading this book might change the way you eat forever - it did me!

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Forks Over Knives

Forks Over Knives: The Plant-Based Way to Health This excellent book really continues the theme of eating plant based foods. It has over 100 recipes and is one of the best books currently available that deals with the health problems of eating meat and dairy products. A must read!

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Although these are products I use and recommend, I would also like to hear from you.

  What products do you use?

  What wheat germ supplements are you consuming?

  What information have you found particularly helpful?

  Are you taking wheat germ to prevent, treat or cure a particular medical condition and what effect is it having?

  How much wheat germ supplements or otherwise are you consuming?

Please drop your comments below.

Peter

I was kindly given permission from Dorie Greenspan to include the recipe which comes from her book: Baking: From My Home to Yours

Enjoy!

Ingredients  

1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour

1 cup wheat germ

1 teaspoon double-acting baking powder

1/4 teaspoon salt

1/2 cup sugar

2 teaspoons finely grated lemon zest

1 stick (8 tablespoons; 4 ounces) unsalted butter, at room temperature

1/2 cup honey

1 large egg

Method

Whisk together the flour, 1/2 cup of the wheat germ (you’ll use the other 1/2 cup right before baking), the baking powder and the salt and keep nearby.

Working in the bowl of a mixer, rub the sugar and lemon zest together with your fingers until the sugar is moist.

Using the paddle attachment, if you have one, beat the lemon-sugar and the butter on medium speed for about 2 minutes, until creamy and smooth.

Add the honey and beat another minute or two.

Add the egg and beat for about 2 minutes more, until you have a smooth, light and fluffy mixture.

Reduce the mixer speed to low and add the dry ingredients in two portions, mixing only until each addition disappears.

Scrape the dough out onto a large piece of plastic wrap, seal and chill the dough at least 2 hours or for up to 2 days.

Getting ready to bake:

Center a rack in the oven and preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

Have a pair of lined baking sheets to hand. Line two baking sheets with parchment or silicone mats.

Put the remaining 1/2 cup wheat germ into a bowl and keep it near you.

Remove the chilled dough from the fridge and working with a spoonful at a time, roll the dough between your palms into 1-inch balls.

Drop each ball into the wheat germ, turn to coat, then place the balls on a baking sheet, leaving about an inch of space between balls (these don’t spread much).

Use your palm or the bottom of a glass to gently flatten each cookie.

Slide the sheet into the oven and bake 10 to 12 minutes, or until the cookies are just firm to the touch.

Transfer the cookies to racks to cool to room temperature and repeat with the remaining dough.

Storing:  The dough can be made up to 2 days ahead and kept covered in the refrigerator. Once baked, the cookies will keep at room temperature for about 3 days, or in the freezer for up to 2 months.

The grapefruit is exceptionally rich in vitamin C and is one of the best antioxidant food sources you can have. It has also shown to help lower high cholesterol, prevent kidney stones and protect against colon cancer.

Ground flaxseed is an awesome, natural source of essential fatty acids, fiber, protein and cancer fighting lignans.

Obviously the health benefits of wheat germ need no introduction, but it will also add additional omega-3, vitamin E, complex B vitamins, fiber, plus nearly every major and trace minerals our bodies need.

This recipe made 13 pancakes that were made from 1/4 cup of the batter and works out at around 123 calories each.


Ingredients:

2 cups whole wheat flour
2 tablespoons wheat germ
1 teaspoon baking powder
1 1/4 cups almond milk
1/4 cup vegan butter (ie Earth Balance)
2 medium grapefruits
2 tablespoons ground flaxseed
6 tablespoons water
1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Method:

First mix the water and flax meal in a bowl and let it sit to thicken up a bit.

Whisk together the whole wheat flour, wheat germ and baking powder in a big bowl.

Add the almond milk, vanilla extract and ground flaxseed with water. Mix that up till combined.

Squeeze enough juice from the grapefruit for about 1/4 cup and pour into the mixing bowl.

Scoop out the remaining grapefruit and cut into small pieces. Add them, along any more remaining juice, to the mixing bowl.

Whisk until you get a nice smooth texture.

There you have your nutrient packed, grapefruit and wheat germ pancake mix!

This batch will make about a dozen pancakes, and they taste delicious!

If you prefer you can substitute the flaxseed mix with a couple of eggs and use regular milk instead of almond milk. (But I think the use of ground flaxseed and almond milk gives it an extra health kick!).

Recipe and photos courtesy of Maytina at: www.soverydomestic.com

With the many wonderful ingredients which it includes, it has the ability to keep your family pet vital and strong.

Keeping your dog healthy and in top condition is most likely very important to you, and you may be searching for ways to do so.

Did you know that just by adding a few drops of wheat germ oil to your dog’s food everyday, you can help protect them from free radical damage?

The high antioxidant content of this super-food soaks up these damaging oxygen molecules and neutralizes their ability to cause harm. This is crucial, as oxidative stress left unchecked over time, can cause major issues such as premature aging and cancer to develop.

What else can wheat germ oil do for your furry friend?  It can work to boost cell membrane repair, and even protect your dog's nerve cells.

Further, this compound promotes strong muscles and organs, keeping their heart, lungs and eyes working at peak capacity.

Healthy Coat

A healthy coat on any animal indicates good health and vitality. Your dogs coat should be shinny and smooth and this is primarily down to their diet.

Problems such as itchy skin, red-inflamed skin, and patchy fur are common place with dogs. Unless it’s a flea or similar problem vets will almost certainly attribute the cause to your dog’s diet and recommend omega-3 essential fatty oils to treat the problem.

This easy course of treatment usually has an affect within just a week or 2 and will restore your dogs coat to a lovely, healthy condition.

Wheat germ oil is one of the best sources of essential fatty acids available and is perfect to give to your dog. It is virtually tasteless so it can easily be added to their food.

Wheat germ oil is preferable to fish oil because not only is it tasteless, it also contains a number of other health promoting properties not found in fish oil or similar fish supplements.

Vitamins and Minerals     

Other important nutrients that your dog can benefit from are vitamins A, D and E which are also found in wheat germ oil. Some experts believe that these will protect your dog's reproductive ability, which is important if you plan to breed them. Also, it gives their skin and coat the nourishment which it needs, to keep your dog looking their best!

Essential Fatty Acids

Many people believe that simply adding fat to their pet's diet, is enough to keep their coat shiny and strong. Yet, most dog food is already laden with fat, but these are typically the unhealthy forms.

In contrast, essential fatty acids are necessary for their body functions, and must be included in their food each day. Why is this? Just like humans, dogs don't have the ability to create these compounds on their own, so they must get them from the food they eat.

Essential fatty acids are critical to many important processes, like proper tissue formation.  They work to reduce inflammation, and may prevent heart disease, arthritis, and perhaps even some forms of cancer. As you want your beloved pet to be healthy for as long as possible, adding essential fatty acids to their food is a great strategy.

Arthritis Prevention and Treatment

Another common ailment with many breeds of dogs is arthritis. It is a sad fact that arthritis is a debilitating disease that causes great pain to dogs and can ultimately lead them to be destroyed.

Not only can arthritis be prevented it can also be treated. Obviously prevention is the priority and this can be done very effectively with wheat germ oil.

The essential fatty acids in the oil act as an effective anti-inflammatory, and keeps your dogs joints lubricated and working freely.

Wheat germ oil has the correct balance of omega-6 and omega-3 fatty acids, and Just a daily dose will begin to have effects quickly. If they already have arthritis or just joint pain, you should begin to see them move around with less discomfort.

Where Can I Buy Wheat Germ Oil For Dogs?

The wheat germ oil you give to your dog is exactly the same oil you should be consuming yourself and your family.

There’s no special doggy wheat germ oil that costs twice as much! So be buying a good wheat germ oil product you’ll kill 2 birds with 1 stone. Job done!

Conclusion

So, for all of the above reasons, why not begin using wheat germ oil for your dog right away? It will provide many wonderful substances which their body needs, and help to keep them strong, healthy and maintain a vibrant, shinny coat.

I’m very much a dog lover and know how important it is for people to look after their dog’s health. Most dog supplements are over-priced and provide limited benefits. Wheat germ oil for dogs on the other hand is a natural product that has many proven health benefits.

Adding it to your dog’s daily diet will ensure you'll have many wonderful, healthy years together!

Whatever your situation, there are some good options you can use with great success in place of wheat germ. To help in your cooking efforts, let's examine these in more detail below.

Wheat Germ in Bread

Do you enjoy baking your own bread? If so, then it is important to keep in mind, that wheat germ is added for its nutrition alone. It doesn't affect how the bread rises or is formed or affects the flavor significantly, though does have a pleasant, mild nutty taste.

Whole Wheat Flour

If you've run out of wheat germ temporarily, you can simply add the same amount of whole wheat flour instead. Like wheat germ, whole wheat flour is produced from wheat kernels which include the germ, and so has some wheat germ within it.

However, be aware that when using this method, it is easy to end up with a harder, baked loaf in the end! So be sure to shift the flour a few extra times, just to ensure that more air finds its way into the batter.

Ground Flaxseed

Another great substitute when baking bread is to use ground flaxseed. Like wheat germ, flaxseed has a tremendous amount of nutrition, with wonderful compounds such as omega-3 fats, folic acid and lots of other vitamins and minerals.

Just keep in mind that the addition of ground flax will make your bread a bit more ‘gummy’, so it will be chewier overall.

Almond Flour - Gluten Free Option

Do you need something which is gluten free instead? Perhaps you are baking for a friend who suffers from gluten intolerance or even Celiac disease.

If this is the case, even the smallest amount of wheat can cause a strong reaction, and unpleasant side effects. To avoid contamination with gluten you can use almond flour instead.

This is completely free of any type of gluten, and is well-tolerated by most people. Also, it has a naturally sweet taste, making it a wonderful addition to any bread! How much should you include? The rule of thumb is to use 2/3 the amount of almond flour, for the correct consistency.

Bran

Another option when searching for a good wheat germ substitute is a few types of bran.  Wheat bran is similar in taste to the germ, so it is a good fit. However, it is obviously derived from wheat, so it does have the same gluten properties as wheat itself.

If you need a gluten free ingredient instead, you can include rice bran in your recipe. However, this doesn't hold together quite as well, so you may have problems if you put in too much!

Oat bran is another possibility, yet you need to buy one which is certified as gluten free, as sometimes cross-contamination can occur.

Buckwheat Groats

A final option is buckwheat groats, which are naturally without gluten, and have a wonderful nutty taste. The toasted groats have the most flavor, and you can simply grind them in a small coffee bean or spice grinder right before adding them to your recipe.

Any one of these choices will work well in most recipes, and they can provide added taste too. With these easy to use wheat germ substitutes, you can make your baked goods gluten free without too much hassle. Or, if you have simply run out of wheat germ, these backup sources can see you through, until your next order.

While supplementation is important, the best approach is to get these added nutrients is from real, natural food sources. Yet, eating enough quality food can be difficult, especially if you are having trouble with nausea!

The good news is, wheat germ and pregnancy have long been positively linked, and wheat germ provides many beneficial compounds which are necessary for a healthy body. To help you discover what it can offer to you and your baby, let's examine this topic in more detail below.

A Little Background to Wheat Germ

At this point you may be wondering, “what is wheat germ?” It is actually the embryo of the wheat berry, and it is a rich source for many essential vitamins and minerals. Often, this portion of the kernel is removed when making bread, leaving it devoid of nutritional value. That is why many people choose to supplement directly with wheat germ instead.

What Can Wheat Germ Provide?

B Vitamins

B vitamins are vital for health, and wheat germ contains nearly all of the B vitamins we need on a daily basis. These are critical for everyday cellular functions, and even more so when you are pregnant.

In fact folic acid, a B vitamin, is an important vitamin for women especially before and during pregnancy. Wheat germ provides good amounts of folic acid to help with this common problem.

Calcium

Wheat germ also delivers a solid dose of calcium with every serving, which is important for proper bone formation. Getting enough of this vital mineral can be difficult during pregnancy, as the RDA is 1200 mg of calcium every day.

Magnesium

When discussing wheat germ and pregnancy a third nutrient is often mentioned – Magnesium. Magnesium is important for many processes in your body, and it works to calm your nerves. In fact, studies imply this vital mineral may even prevent your uterus from contracting prematurely. In addition, magnesium may help you to sleep, which can be a challenge in the later stages of pregnancy.

Magnesium further works to repair your body tissues, and a severe deficiency can cause several problems. These include preeclampsia, slow growth of your baby or even infant mortality. Yet, with proper supplementation, these issues are easily avoided.

Wheat germ and pregnancy are also positively linked, due to its varied and high mineral content of magnesium, calcium, potassium, iron, zinc and trace minerals selenium, copper and manganese.

Your body’s requirements for such minerals increase due to your pregnancy, so eating rich food sources containing these is important.

Essential Fatty Acids

Yet, besides beneficial vitamins and minerals, wheat germ boasts another vitally important compound. It contains high amounts of essential fatty acids (EFA’s), which are a wonderful substance for your body to use.

Omega-3 EFA's are thought to be crucial for brain development and your baby's nervous system. The body also uses EFA’s to help build the immune system, lower high cholesterol levels and improve the cardiovascular system. This nutrient is vital to include in your daily diet and especially whilst pregnant.

Essential Amino Acids

Wheat germ has healthy levels of essential amino acids, which are used in the formation of protein molecules. Your needs for these building blocks of life are higher when you are pregnant, as protein is essential for tissue formation.

In fact, the American College of Nurse-Midwives suggests that pregnant women consume 71 grams of whole protein very day (Coleman, 2010). This ensures that your baby has the nutrients which it needs for proper growth.

Many women testify that eating this much protein has a beneficial effect on their baby's brain! While this is unsubstantiated, protein is essential for cellular formation, so it is highly probable that these accounts are not far wrong.

Conclusion

When it comes to wheat germ and pregnancy, there are many positive things to commend its use. It provides crucial vitamins and minerals, which are essential for your baby's development. With the addition of its Omega-3 EFA's and the essential amino acids, wheat germ is the perfect addition to any meal if you are currently pregnant.


Supporting Source: Coleman, Erin. "Amino Acid Supplements; Pregnancy." LIVESTRONG.COM - Lose Weight; Get Fit with Diet, Nutrition; Fitness Tools. 8 Dec. 2010

Even though many of these questions are answered in the comments section of each article, I have decided to create a separate page to answer the most frequently asked ones.

This page will continue to grow as more questions come in and more research is revealed.

If you have any questions regarding wheat germ - its uses, health benefits etc. please add them to the comments section below.

Wheat Germ Question and Answers

1. What is wheat germ oil?
2. What's the difference between wheat germ and wheat germ oil?
3. Can I Take Wheat Germ and Wheat Germ Oil? 
4. What's the difference between wheat germ and "raw" wheat germ?
5. How Long Does Wheat Germ Keep For?
6. Should I Take Wheat Germ With Other Supplements?
7. What Do I Eat Wheat Germ With?
8. Is Wheat Germ Safe For Children/Toddlers?
9. Is Wheat Germ Good For Constipation? 
10. Can Wheat Germ Lower My High Cholesterol Levels?
11. Are There Any Side Effects of Wheat Germ?
12. Is Wheat Germ Safe to Eat During Pregnancy?

What is wheat germ oil? (Back to Top)

Wheat germ oil is oil extracted from the wheat germ. The wheat germ makes up only 3% of the wheat grain and contains approximately 13% oil. As you can imagine it takes a lot of wheat germ to produce a bottle of wheat germ oil.

What's the difference between wheat germ and wheat germ oil? (Back to Top)

Wheat germ oil can be used both internally and externally where as wheat germ is purely a dietary source of food.

External uses for wheat germ oil include using it on the skin to treat scars, wrinkles and the signs of aging. It is also effective for hair and scalp treatment. See Wheat Germ Oil for Hair.

Both wheat germ and its oil contain vitamins and minerals, especially vitamin E, but the oil does not contain the good amounts of fiber, protein and complex carbohydrates found in the germ.

Wheat germ oil contains a greater concentration of essential fatty acids – especially omega 3 which is deficient in most people’s diet. It is also a great alternative to consuming fish oil.

Can I Take Wheat Germ and Wheat Germ Oil? (Back to Top)

Yes it is perfectly safe to consume both wheat germ and wheat germ oil. This is a natural product that has an abundance of health promoting properties.

What's the Difference Between Wheat Germ and "Raw" Wheat Germ? (Back to Top)

Wheat germ is available to buy either in its raw or natural state or as toasted wheat germ. Both types contain the same nutrients and compounds but wheat germ that is toasted has a more nutty taste and texture.

Most people prefer wheat germ to be toasted so that it can be sprinkled directly onto foods.

Raw wheat germ is cheaper to buy and also has a longer shelf life than toasted wheat germ.

How Long Does Wheat Germ Keep For? (Back to Top)

Raw wheat germ will keep fresh in a sealed container, in the refrigerator for up to 2 months. You will be able to smell if it has ‘gone-off’ as it will go rancid after this time.

Toasted wheat germ kept in its sealed jar will last for at least twice as long as raw wheat germ. Store it in a cool dry place for maximum shelf life.

Should I Take Wheat Germ With Other Supplements? (Back to Top)

Wheat germ is a natural food source and if you only consume up to 2 to 3 tablespoons a day, it has not been shown to interfere with any other forms of supplements or medication.

Depending on your reasons and other considerations such as age, health, if pregnant etc., there is no reason why you can’t take supplements in addition to wheat germ.

What Do I Eat Wheat Germ With? (Back to Top)

You can eat wheat germ with a number of different foods. You can add it to baked food such as bread and cookies or you can simply sprinkle it on foods like salads, cereal, soup, smoothies, pancakes, yogurt and shakes.

For more inspiration on adding wheat germ to food, see my wheat germ recipes page.

Is Wheat Germ Safe For Children/Toddlers? (Back to Top)

Yes, adding wheat germ to children’s/toddler’s diet can only be a good thing. For young children I wouldn’t give them any more than a teaspoon a day.

Is Wheat Germ Good For Constipation? (Back to Top)

Yes wheat germ can certainly help with constipation. It is a good source of dietary fiber which helps add bulk to your stools. It will also stimulate proper bowel contractions, and promote healthy bacteria in the colon. A healthy colon will aid in the absorption of nutrients.

Ensure you also drink lots of water with your wheat germ as the fiber will absorb water like a sponge and can then actually cause constipation.

Can Wheat Germ Lower My High Cholesterol Levels? (Back to Top)

Studies have shown that foods containing plant sterols help block the absorption of cholesterol into your blood stream. Plant sterol are able to lower the amounts of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) while have no effect on the more beneficial High Density Lipoprotein (HDL).

Wheat germ is a good source of sterols and regular consumption will help keep a healthy balance of the overall cholesterol in the body.

As well as plant sterols, wheat germ contains essential fatty acids and vitamin E, both sources being acknowledged in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system and lowering cholesterol.

Are There Any Side Effects of Wheat Germ? (Back to Top)

Side effects of wheat germ are very rare and very unlikely. Probably the biggest consideration to take into account with wheat germ is for anyone who might suffer from a wheat allergy or gluten intolerance, without yet being diagnosed.

If after you eat wheat germ you develop various symptoms such as diarrhea and sickness, you might have a condition known as celiac disease. It is important that you get diagnosed in order to follow a gluten and wheat free diet.

Obviously if you know you have this condition then you should not consume wheat germ or wheat germ oil.

However, applying wheat germ oil to your hair or skin is perfectly safe as it will not enter your blood system this way.

Is Wheat Germ Safe to Eat During Pregnancy? (Back to Top)

Yes, not only is it safe to eat, it is positively encouraged! During pregnancy a woman needs to take on more vitamins and minerals.

Natural foods like wheat germ which is a ‘complete’ food, contains a whole host of nutrients as well as essential fatty acids.

"Its called upma. It is a recipe from india, usually made with rice kernel.

I just tasted wheat germ for the first time today and i loved it...

Here is my recipe...i can eat this day and night..."

Put some oil in pan and saute some onion and chilii...when it is browned...pour some water and mix salt into it...when water boils, add the wheat germ and let it cook and make it dry.

Adding carrots, beans, coriander leaves etc is another option....green chillies make it spicy...may be turmeric also can be added...for color and turmeric is supposed to fight against cancer.

yum yum.

Hope u like it.

Thanks
Nisha

If you have your own wheat germ bread recipe or any other wheat germ recipes you would care to share with us, please drop it in the comments box below or email me.