WHEATGERM OIL

Wheat germ oil is extracted from the germ of the wheat kernel, which makes up only 2.5% by weight of the kernel. Wheat germ oil is particularly high in octacosanol – a 28-carbon long-chain saturated primary alcohol found in a number of different vegetable waxes. Octacosanol has been studied as an exercise and physical performance-enhancing agent. Wheat germ oil is also very high in vitamin E (255 mg/100g), and has the highest content of vitamin E of any food that has not undergone prior preparation or vitamin fortification. Vitamin E is an antioxidant that can protect cell membranes, brain cells, and cholesterol molecules from free radical damage. Vitamin E is also important for good liver detoxification, immune function, and blood glucose control in both healthy and diabetic individuals. As a cooking oil, wheat germ oil is strongly flavored, expensive and easily perishable.