Whole grain wheat has many health benefits, with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber that can improve digestion, complexion, and prevent colon cancer. Of course, if you have gluten intolerance, you should avoid wheat. But most people can eat moderate amounts of wheat and reap the health benefits.

Here are some of the ways wheat contributes to good health as well as to good looks!

Gut health

Studies have found a relationship between insoluble fiber, concentrated in the bran of the wheat grain, and prebiotics, feeding some beneficial bacteria to the gut. In addition, the bran in wheat products can:

• Add bulk to stool, making it easier to pass
• Shorten the time it takes undigested material to travel through your digestive tract
• Reduce constipation in children

Cancer prevention

Observational studies have linked consuming whole grains—including whole wheat—to a reduced risk of colon cancer. One study estimated that people on low-fiber diets could cut their risk of colon cancer by 40% by eating more fiber. The number of antioxidants and phytonutrients in wheat also helps avoid colon cancer, studies have shown.

Improves the complexion

Wheat contains selenium and other antioxidants that enhance skin elasticity and protects skin against damage from the sun and other environmental factors.

Wheat can also be applied topically to enhance skin.

For oily skin, a paste of 2 tablespoons of wheat flour and an equal amount of milk can treat oily skin. Apply over face and neck—or just over the oily zones for combination skin—leave on for 15 minutes, then rinse skin with cool water.

To revive tired skin, mix 2 tablespoons of wheat flour with 1 tablespoon of milk and 1 tablespoon of rose water. Apply to the face and neck and relax for 15 minutes. Rinse with cool water.

Did you know wheat had so many health and beauty benefits? Tell us how you’ve used wheat to benefit your body.