Hobbies And Interests
Brief History
Wheat, a type a grass, is one of the first cereals domesticated by humans. Archeological records show that wheat was first cultivated in a small region in Turkey dating back to around 9,000 BC. Farmers during this time observed that wheat is generally a self-pollinating plant, which can reproduce clones easily. This makes wheat a suitable plant for farmers to grow since more minerals can be drawn from each kernel.
Farming Wheat
Modern wheat farmers plant wheat seeds or kernels using a tractor equipped with a farming drill. This drill digs ditches where the seeds are planted. Young wheat stalks look like yard grass, but as it grows a "head" -- the part containing the grains -- appears on each plant. Mature wheat stalks turn from green to golden brown. Harvest starts when the golden brown stalks turn to beige, a sign the grains have hardened. In most wheat types, this process takes around 120 days, while some hybrid wheat seeds mature half as fast.
Wheat as Food
Wheat -- usually in the form of flour -- is the leading source of vegetable protein for humans. Aside from breads, cakes and pasta, wheat can also be made into wheat germ that is rich in nutritional value. It can be added to protein shakes, cookies, cereals and yogurt.
Wheat bran is another wheat product used to feed animals, but it can also be added to baked goods. It is a good source of fiber, Vitamin B and protein. Wheat berry is used as meat extenders and breakfast cereals. Wheat can even serve as a substitute for beans in dishes like chili and burritos.
Gluten Allergy
Wheat is one of the main causes of gluten allergy. People who are sensitive to gluten are unable to digest it, resulting in the inflammation of the mucosa in the small intestine and even celiac disease. These types of diseases are known to affect the body's ability to absorb and digest minerals. One of the most effective ways of coping with gluten sensitivity is to avoid foods made from wheat and other oats.