The Anticancer Actions of Fermented Wheat Germ Extract: A Comprehensive Guide

The Anticancer Actions of Fermented Wheat Germ Extract: A Comprehensive Guide

Written by Keith Bishop
Clinical Nutritionist, Educator, Retired Pharmacist

Welcome to my latest blog post on Prevail Over Cancer, where I delve into the transformative power of fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) and its potential benefits for individuals navigating the challenges of cancer. Fermented wheat germ extract, a natural supplement derived from the precise fermentation of wheat germ, has been the subject of extensive research for its remarkable nutritional properties and its role in supporting overall health and wellness.

In this post, I explore the science behind FWGE, how it can be integrated into your health regimen, and the ways it may support your body's natural defenses, enhance energy levels, and contribute to a balanced and nutritious diet. Whether you're looking to bolster your immune system, seeking natural ways to support your body during cancer treatment, or simply interested in the health benefits of fermented foods, join me as we uncover the potential of fermented wheat germ extract to help you prevail on your journey to wellness.

Fermented wheat germ extract (FWGE) has garnered attention for its anticancer properties. This blog post delves into the scientific evidence supporting FWGE's anticancer actions, its benefits for cancer patients, the best ways to consume it, and potential concerns and cautions.

Anticancer Actions of Fermented Wheat Germ Extract

FWGE contains bioactive compounds such as 2-methoxy benzoquinone and 2,6-dimethoxy benzoquinone, which are believed to contribute to its anticancer effects⁶. Here are some critical mechanisms through which FWGE exerts its anticancer actions:

1. Inhibition of Glycolysis: FWGE interferes with anaerobic glycolysis, a process heavily utilized by cancer cells for energy production⁶.
2. Induction of Apoptosis**: It promotes programmed or normal cell death (apoptosis) in cancer cells via the caspase-poly [ADP-ribose] polymerase pathway⁶.
3. Antimetastatic Properties: FWGE has shown antimetastatic effects in animal models, potentially preventing the spread of cancer⁶.
4. Immune Modulation: It modulates the immune response by downregulating the MHC-I complex and inducing the production of TNF-α and various interleukins⁶ FWGE increases the activity of natural killer (NK) cells, aiding in the body’s natural defense against tumor cells.
5. Glucose Warburg Effects: FWGE inhibits the Warburg effect, or cancer cell’s ability to use glucose for energy. Thus, FWGE helps inhibit cancer cells from accessing their energy source, and slowing growth.

Cancer Benefits of Fermented Wheat Germ Extract

Clinical studies have highlighted several benefits of FWGE for cancer patients:

1. Improved Survival Rates: FWGE has been associated with improved progression-free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) in patients with melanoma and colorectal cancer⁶⁷.
2. Enhanced Quality of Life: Patients taking FWGE have reported better quality of life, including reduced fatigue and improved general well-being².
3. Synergistic Effects with Chemotherapy: FWGE can enhance the efficacy of certain chemotherapy drugs, making cancer treatments more effective⁶.

Best Ways to Consume Fermented Wheat Germ Extract

FWGE SC® (Fermented Wheat Germ Extract Super Concentrate) is taken before meals to decrease the impact of glucose on cancer metabolism.

Potential Concerns and Cautions

While FWGE is generally considered safe, there are some potential concerns and cautions to be aware of:

1. Potential Side Effects: Common side effects may include diarrhea and nausea⁹. These are usually mild and temporary.
2. Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: There is insufficient evidence to confirm the safety of FWGE during pregnancy and breastfeeding, so it is best to avoid it during these periods⁹.
3. Allergies and Sensitivities: Individuals with gluten sensitivity, fructose intolerance, or wheat allergies should avoid FWGE¹².
4. Interactions with Other Conditions: FWGE should not be used by individuals with certain medical conditions, such as organ or tissue transplants, gastrointestinal ulcers, or malabsorption syndromes¹².

Fermented Wheat Germ Extract Cancer Conclusion

Fermented wheat germ extract offers promising anticancer benefits, supported by various clinical studies. By understanding its mechanisms, benefits, and the best ways to consume it, you can make informed decisions about incorporating FWGE into your cancer treatment regimen. However, consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement is crucial, especially for those with pre-existing conditions or concerns.

For more detailed information and personalized advice, always contact your healthcare professional or schedule a Cancer Coaching Session with Keith Bishop, Clinical Nutritionist.

Fermented Wheat Germ Extract Super Concentrate is combined with Berberine and is available in Onco-Adjunct™ Pathway 3 Plus™ capsules by Ultra Botanica.Click here to learn more about Pathway 3 Plus Capsules.

*Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration, and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or health condition.

Fermented Wheat Germ Extract Cancer Reference Sources Include

Mueller, T., Voigt, W. Fermented wheat germ extract - nutritional supplement or anticancer drug?. Nutr J 10, 89 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1186/1475-2891-10-89

Otto, C., Hahlbrock, T., Eich, K. et al. Antiproliferative and antimetabolic effects behind the anticancer property of fermented wheat germ extract. BMC Complement Altern Med 16, 160 (2016). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12906-016-1138-5

FERMENTED WHEAT GERM EXTRACT - Uses, Side Effects, and More - WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-1500/fermented-wheat-germ-extract

Wheat Germ: Benefits, Side Effects, Dosage - MedicineNet. https://www.medicinenet.com/wheat_germ_extract/article.htm

Wheat germ extract | Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center. https://www.mskcc.org/cancer-care/integrative-medicine/herbs/wheat-germ-extract

Mueller, T., Jordan, K. & Voigt, W. Promising cytotoxic activity profile of fermented wheat germ extract (Avemar^®) in human cancer cell lines. J Exp Clin Cancer Res 30, 42 (2011). https://doi.org/10.1186/1756-9966-30-42

Bencze G, Bencze S, Rivera KD, et al. Mito-oncology agent: fermented extract suppresses the Warburg effect, restores oxidative mitochondrial activity, and inhibits in vivo tumor growth [published correction appears in Sci Rep. 2021 Jan 29;11(1):3036. doi: 10.1038/s41598-021-82411-0]. Sci Rep. 2020;10(1):14174. Published 2020 Aug 25. doi:10.1038/s41598-020-71118-3 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7447799/

Farkas E. Szupportív kezelés fermentált búzacsíra-kivonattal colorectalis carcinomában [Fermented wheat germ extract in the supportive therapy of colorectal cancer]. Orv Hetil. 2005;146(37):1925-1931. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16255377/

Meckler JF, Levis DJ, Kong Y, O'Donnell RT, Vang DP, Tuscano JM. Fermented Wheat Germ Protein with Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor AR42 Demonstrates Enhanced Cytotoxicity against Lymphoma Cells In Vitro and In Vivo. Int J Mol Sci. 2024;25(14):7866. Published 2024 Jul 18. doi:10.3390/ijms25147866 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC11277024/

Weitzen R, Epstein N, Oberman B, Shevetz R, Hidvegi M, Berger R. Fermented Wheat Germ Extract (FWGE) as a Treatment Additive for Castration-Resistant Prostate Cancer: A Pilot Clinical Trial. Nutr Cancer. 2022;74(4):1338-1346. doi:10.1080/01635581.2021.1952457 https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1080/01635581.2021.1952457

Zhurakivska K, Troiano G, Caponio VCA, Dioguardi M, Arena C, Lo Muzio L. The Effects of Adjuvant Fermented Wheat Germ Extract on Cancer Cell Lines: A Systematic Review. Nutrients. 2018;10(10):1546. Published 2018 Oct 19. doi:10.3390/nu10101546 https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6213720/