Whole wheat is an excellent source of complex carbohydrates, B vitamins and iron. It is also rich in folic acid – a nutrient that reduces the risk of birth defects and may even lower the chances of heart disease. Wheat has been found to contain a vast range of phytochemicals as well as thiamin, riboflavin and niacin.
The wheat kernel contains 3 main parts – the endosperm (which makes up 83% of the kernel), the outer coat of the kernel (bran) and the sprouting section (wheatgerm). The endosperm is where the starch is stored and contains carbohydrates and B-complex vitamins. The bran is a very good source of protein, B-vitamins and indigestible cellulose material (dietary fibre). The wheatgerm is a valuable source of vitamins and trace minerals.
