Fermented wheat germ extract
Fermented wheat germ extract

Background

Fermented wheat germ extract is made by fermenting extract of wheat germ with yeast. Wheat germ is the nutrient-rich embryo of the wheat kernel.

Fermented wheat germ extract contains chemicals that are thought to help treat cancer. It also has antioxidant effects.

People use fermented wheat germ extract for colon and rectal cancer, skin cancer, prostate cancer, rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and many other conditions, but there is no good scientific evidence to support these uses.
When taken by mouth: Fermented wheat germ extract is possibly safe. A specific wheat germ extract (Avemar) has been used safely in doses of 8.5-9 grams once or twice daily for up to 1 year. It's usually well-tolerated. Side effects might include diarrhea or nausea.

When applied to the skin: There isn't enough reliable information to know if fermented wheat germ extract is safe or what the side effects might be.

Special Precautions & Warnings:

Pregnancy and breast-feeding: There isn't enough reliable information to know if fermented wheat germ extract is safe to use when pregnant or breast-feeding. Stay on the safe side and avoid use.

Children: Fermented wheat germ extract is possibly safe when taken by mouth. A specific wheat germ extract (Avemar) has been used safely for about 29 months.

Organ transplant recipients: Fermented wheat germ extract might increase the immune system. This might increase the risk of organ transplant rejection. If you have received an organ transplant, don't use fermented wheat germ extract until more is known.

Effectiveness

There is interest in using fermented wheat germ extract for a number of purposes, but there isn't enough reliable information to say whether it might be helpful.
Likely effective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly effective Effectiveness definitions
Likely ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Possibly ineffective Effectiveness definitions
Insufficient evidence Effectiveness definitions

Dosing & administration

A specific wheat germ extract (Avemar) has most often been used by adults in doses of 8.5-9 grams by mouth once or twice daily for up to 1 year. Speak with a healthcare provider to find out what dose might be best for a specific condition.

Interactions with pharmaceuticals

Medications that decrease the immune system (Immunosuppressants)

Interaction Rating=Moderate Be cautious with this combination.

Fermented wheat germ extract can increase the activity of the immune system. Some medications, such as those used after a transplant, decrease the activity of the immune system. Taking fermented wheat germ extract along with these medications might decrease the effects of these medications.

Interactions with herbs & supplements

There are no known interactions with herbs and supplements.

Interactions with foods

There are no known interactions with foods.
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This monograph was last reviewed on 17/12/2024 11:00:00 and last updated on 10/07/2020 00:19:41. Monographs are reviewed and/or updated multiple times per month and at least once per year.
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