Originally published September 2 2009
Superfood Profile: Find the Health Benefits of Wheat Germ Oil
by Elizabeth Walling
(NaturalNews) Research has shown that obtaining nutrients through a naturally healthy diet is far more effective than trying to achieve health through synthetic nutrients found in pills and supplements. A daily dose of wheat germ oil is the perfect way to enrich your diet and nourish your body with a high concentration of powerful nutrients.
Wheat germ oil is praised as one of nature's richest sources of vitamin E. This vitamin protects the body against free radicals and is an important weapon in the fight against premature aging, cancer and heart disease. Many studies which demonstrated the benefits of vitamin E did so with wheat germ oil rather than synthetic versions of the vitamin. The vitamin E in wheat germ oil works with the minerals selenium and zinc for powerful antioxidant protection.
The vitamin E in wheat germ oil is effective as a topical agent as well. The high antioxidant content can facilitate regeneration and healing in the skin, while protecting against future damage. Many people have noticed remarkable improvement by applying wheat germ oil to treat dry skin, sun spots, wrinkles, scars, stretch marks, psoriasis and eczema.
Although its vitamin E content may be its most outstanding benefit, wheat germ oil also contains other valuable nutrients:
Essential Fatty Acids. The essential fatty acid alpha linolenic acid in wheat germ oil fights inflammation, while protecting the cardiovascular and immune systems. Wheat germ oil also contains other highly beneficial essential fatty acids, such as stearic acid, which has been shown to produce positive effects on lipid profiles, and oleic acid, which protects the heart.
Lecithin. This phospholipid is vital for heart health, brain function and liver health.
Octacosanol. This long-chain alcohol has been shown in some preliminary studies to enhance endurance, performance and reaction time during physical activity.
Keep in mind wheat germ oil is not meant to replace other healthy fats in your diet. Rather, wheat germ oil should be thought of as a beneficial supplement. A daily dose of one to three teaspoons is generally sufficient. It can be taken plain or mixed with juice, yogurt or oatmeal. Wheat germ oil can also be taken in capsules if you find swallowing the oil disagreeable.
Wheat germ oil should be cold-pressed and unrefined to ensure nutritional content. It's susceptible to rancidity, but if kept refrigerated in an opaque, airtight container it will last several months. Using wheat germ oil for cooking is not recommended.
For More Information:
http://www.buzzle.com/articles/benefits-of-w...
http://www.southernstar.ie/article.php?id=14...
Fallon, Sally and Enig, Mary. (1999) Nourishing Traditions: The Cookbook that Challenges Politically Correct Nutrition and the Diet Dictocrats. Published by New Trends Publishing.
About the author
Elizabeth Walling is a freelance writer specializing in health and family nutrition. She is a strong believer in natural living as a way to improve health and prevent modern disease. She enjoys thinking outside of the box and challenging common myths about health and wellness. You can visit her blog to learn more:
www.livingthenourishedlife.com/2009/10/welco...
All content posted on this site is commentary or opinion and is protected under Free Speech. Truth Publishing LLC takes sole responsibility for all content. Truth Publishing sells no hard products and earns no money from the recommendation of products. NaturalNews.com is presented for educational and commentary purposes only and should not be construed as professional advice from any licensed practitioner. Truth Publishing assumes no responsibility for the use or misuse of this material. For the full terms of usage of this material, visit www.NaturalNews.com/terms.shtml