Wheat is among the most commonly used cereals today and originates from the Triticum grass. This grass is available in many countries and is among the most important ingredients in baked foods.
Wheat is common mostly because it has gluten protein which can cause a risky immune response in certain individuals, a feature that makes it controversial. However, it can be an excellent source of minerals and vitamins for individuals who can tolerate it.
Wheat flour is among the most common types, and below, we discuss everything you need to know about wheat.
Nutrition Content
Wheat mainly consists of carbohydrates, even though it has limited protein amounts. The most common nutrients found in wheat include;
- Carbs
Wheat mainly consists of carbs, like most cereal grains. Starch is common in the plant kingdom, making up over 80% of the entire carb content in wheat.
- Fiber
Wheat is rich in fiber, and the most common is arabinoxylan. Wheat fiber is insoluble, and it might have fructans which might cause digestive issues in people with IBS.
Benefits of Taking Wheat
The main benefits of taking whole wheat include the following;
- Gut Health
Whole grain wheat has insoluble fiber, which acts as a prebiotic. Wheat benefits your gut health by reducing the time an undigested material takes to go through the digestive tract.
- Prevents Colon Cancer
Colon cancer is the most common that attacks the digestive system. Research has shown a link between reduced chances of acquiring colon cancer to consuming wheat. Another study has suggested that people taking low-fiber diets can reduce their chances of getting cancer by 50% by consuming wheat.
Remember, wheat is rich in fiber and has various phytonutrients and antioxidants that reduce colon cancer chances.
- Prevents Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is signified by a harmful gluten reaction. Over 1% of the entire US population has this condition, and it mainly damages the small intestine. Other common symptoms of this condition are; bloating, weight loss, fatigue, and constipation.
It is believed that gluten causes brain disorders in individuals with epilepsy or schizophrenia. Sticking to a gluten-free diet is the best way to manage celiac disease, and this component is also available in barley and rye.
Effects of Wheat
Not everybody’s body reacts positively to wheat, and its main effects include the following;
- Irritable Bowel Syndrome
Irritable bowel syndrome is mainly characterized by bloating, abdominal pain, and constipation. People with anxiety mainly experience this condition, which is mainly associated with inflammation in the digestive system.
- Allergies
Food allergy is a prevalent condition caused by a dangerous immune response to particular proteins. Gluten is the main allergen in wheat, and it affects over 2% of children.
Antinutrients are also prevalent among certain wheat users but are easily manageable.
Final Thoughts
Wheat is a staple product in most countries and is mainly loved for its versatility. The above article has discussed all you need to know about it, and more information is available online.
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