Last Updated on June 15, 2023 by Shabnam Sengupta
Wheat is one of the most widely cultivated crops in the world. It has been a staple food for humans for thousands of years. It is a common ingredient in bread, pasta, and other staple foods. Wheat is an important source of carbohydrates, fibre, and protein. In India, wheat is a major crop, and is used in a variety of traditional dishes such as roti, paratha, and naan. Wheat also has several health benefits, including its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Consumption of wheat may reduced the risk of certain diseases, such as cancer and heart disease. In this context, exploring the potential health benefits of wheat is an important area of research, which could help promote healthy eating habits and improve public health.
Health benefits of wheat
May have anti-diabetic properties
The studies discussed suggest that certain compounds found in wheat have potential benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes. For example, consuming whole grains and wheat bran extract may lead to a lower risk of developing diabetes, while consuming wheat seeds may help to control blood glucose levels and improve liver function. Flavonoids and polyphenols found in these plants may have antioxidant and hypoglycemic effects. They also may have the ability to inhibit adipogenesis and gluconeogenesis. Additionally, compounds such as kaempferol and ferulic acid may help to reduce lipid peroxidation and improve antioxidant activity, while alpha tocopherol may help to prevent glomerular hyperfiltration and albuminuria. These findings suggest that incorporating these compounds into the diet may have potential benefits for individuals with type 2 diabetes.
May have cholesterol lowering effects
Researchers hypothesise that a high intake of fibre and calcium would reduce faecal bile acid concentrations. A study reported that arabinoxylans in wheat bran decreased total plasma and LDL-cholesterol concentrations and contributed to inhibiting cholesterol absorption in the intestines while increasing bile acid excretion. Phytosterols decrease cholesterol absorption in the body by competing with cholesterol for space in micelles and reducing NPC1L1 expression in liver cells. SREBP, a cholesterol regulatory protein, activates genes involved in cholesterol production, but phytosterol may lower cholesterol production by suppressing SREBP expression. Wheat bran extract with fructans and arabinoxylans are potential prebiotic nutrients that induce Bifidobacterium animalis and Bifidobacterium pseudolongum, reversing Western diet-induced metabolic diseases, such as fat mass expansion, steatosis, hypercholesterolemia, hyperleptinemia, hyperglycemia, and hyperinsulinemia.
May help in cancer prevention
Wheat bran has been found to have cancer-preventive properties in both human and animal studies, likely due to its high content of minerals and phytochemicals such as phytic acid, phenolic acids, lignans, and flavonoids. Consumption of whole grains has also been linked to reduced cancer risk. A study of individuals who had colonic polyps removed showed that adding wheat bran to their diets for 1-2 years reduced the likelihood of getting a second adenoma with a diameter larger than 10 mm, especially when combined with a low-fat diet. In a separate study of premenopausal women, wheat bran was found to reduce blood estradiol and estrone levels during the follicular phase of the cycle, potentially reducing the risk of breast cancer.
May have anti-inflammatory effects
Studies have shown that wheat and sprout extracts have anti-inflammatory properties, which can be beneficial for human health. Wheat hulls also contain compounds that can reduce inflammation. In one study, wheat extract was divided into two fractions and both were found to inhibit factors involved in inflammation. Another study found that components extracted from wheat hulls could potentially reduce inflammation in the body. Additionally, a study showed that extracts from wheat sprouts could protect the liver from damage and reduce inflammation.
Wheat also contains substances that may act as antioxidants and have health benefits. Some components in wheat have been linked to cancer prevention and protection against various malignancies. Furthermore, some components in wheat are believed to have antioxidant properties, which can help protect the body from oxidative stress and potentially reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Overall, these findings suggest that wheat may have several health benefits and could potentially be used as a natural remedy for various ailments.
Conclusion
Wheat is a widely consumed grain that provides numerous health benefits. Its versatility and accessibility make it a staple food in many parts of the world. The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of wheat components make it a promising natural remedy for various ailments. Further research is needed to fully understand the mechanisms of action of wheat and its components in promoting human health. Overall, the evidence suggests that including whole wheat in one’s diet can be a healthy choice for individuals looking to improve their overall well-being.
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