Effects of wheat germ on a population of hyperlipidemic patients

Purpose – Reducing fat intake or inhibiting fat absorption is a useful solution for blood lipid reduction. It is shown that there are some proteins in wheat germ with pancreatic lipase inhibiting properties that have hypolipidemic effects. This paper aims to evaluate the possible beneficial effects of a daily intake of 30 g of raw wheat germ in a population of Iranian hyperlipidemic subjects with their special dietary habits. Design/methodology/approach – This experimental trial was conducted on 15 hyperlipidemic patients with the average age of 45.7 ^ 7 years. They were not on lipid-lowering drugs for the previous three months. They were asked to consume 30 g of raw wheat germ each day for four weeks, and continue their normal diet (follow-up period) for the following four weeks. Dietary records were taken for three days prior to the study and at the end of a four weeks intervention and follow-up period. Data were analysed using repeated measurement analysis. If the statistical significance was detected, a paired-t-test was used. Findings – The consumption of wheat germ for four weeks lowered the serum total cholesterol ( p , 0.002), triglyceride ( p , 0.001) and VLDL-C ( p , 0.001). These levels were significantly increased after the follow-up period, but they did not reach the baseline level. HDL-C level was not significantly changed. Practical implications – Consumption of wheat germ may lower the risk of CHD by reducing the serum lipids. Originality/value – The paper evaluates the possible beneficial effects of a daily intake of 30 g of raw wheat germ in a population of Iranian hyperlipidemic subjects with their special dietary habits.