Is wheat germ as nutritious as some people claim? Is it better than wheat bran?
Wheat germ and wheat bran are both good choices for the same reason that whole grains are better than refined grains. Wheat germ, from the center of the grain, is an excellent source of vitamin E and the B vitamin folate and provides good fiber content, too. Wheat bran, the outer layer of the grain, is extremely high in fiber and a good source of magnesium (but it is not a source of vitamin E). Both can be added to baked goods and casseroles. Wheat germ can also be sprinkled on dishes like yogurt, salad or cooked oatmeal to add nutrition and a pleasantly nutty taste. As long as you include at least three or four servings of whole grains in your diet every day, don’t feel compelled to use separate wheat bran or wheat germ, however. They are just two of many foods that can add nutrients and cancer-fighting compounds to your diet.