There are more allergies today than most people would care to admit. One particular allergy that is chagrin to some of its victims is an allergy to wheat bran. Wheat bran is a derivative of the external husk which is removed from a grain of wheat. In olden times, it was discarded after the milling process of wheat. However, it was later put into use once people learned of its high nutritional value. Wheat bran is high in protein and a good source of insoluble fiber, which can assist the digestive system in performing it function. However, there have been cases of allergic reaction due to consumption of wheat bran and its associated products. The best way to deal with this predicament is to look for what bran substitutes. These substitutes include:
Oat Bran
Oat bran is the primary substitute for wheat bran, due to its high fiber content and nutty taste. It is highly soluble, and turns into a gel like substance after binding with water. It is able to reduce “bad” cholesterol levels in the body. Just like wheat bran, oat bran can be added to food recipes to act as a supplement or provide additional protein and fiber content to ones diet. You can buy oat bran at any grocery shop or natural health store.
Rice Bran
This is another popular substitute, which is able to boost your fiber content and lower your cholesterol levels. You can buy rice bran at any natural health store or grocery store.
Other Flour Types
Cornmeal and Pumpernickel flour, which are made from whole grains, are suitable substitutes for wheat bran. You could also try buckwheat flour, which is finely grained and has a high content of protein and frolic acid (similar to wheat bran). You could also use millet flour, which is high in protein and with a mild taste. You can locate them in normal grocery stores or natural health stores.
Wheat Germ
Wheat germ refers to the reproductive part of a wheat seed that turns into a plant, after germination. It is a concentrated source of several nutrients, such as folic acid, vitamin E, magnesium, zinc and phosphorus. As a wheat bran substitute, it can be applied on food in powder form. It will also add a crunchy and nutty texture to your food.
If you are suffering from wheat bran allergies, try any of the above substitutes to eliminate the problem and also to ensure proper nutrition in your diet.
Related articles
- Bran Allergy (food-allergydata.com)
