Resolve to Give Up None of Your Favorite Foods This Year with Kretschmer Wheat Germ

TUKWILA, Wash., Jan. 9, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Millions of Americans will resolve to give up their favorite foods this January to jump-start their post-holiday health and fitness routines. However, with a simple substitution, cooks can enjoy healthier versions all their favorite foods with the help of an original superfood -- Kretschmer Wheat Germ. The nutritional hub of the wheat seed which is removed during the refining of whole grains to white flour, wheat germ is an excellent source of nutrients including vitamin E, B vitamins, folic acid and fiber. With a subtle flavor and crunchy texture, wheat germ is an easy substitution for ingredients like bread crumbs, flour and nuts to reduce calories and increase nutrients.

For consumers interested in using wheat germ to help with their New Year diet goals, the Kretschmer Facebook page is hosting a New Years' Un-Resolution Contest offering one lucky fan a $500 Visa gift card to use towards his or her 2014 wellness goals. Ten daily winners will also receive a $50 Visa gift card to kick-start their routines. To enter, fans can choose from a variety of foods they resolve not to give up this year with the help of healthier recipes from Kretschmer wheat germ. Guilt-free options courtesy of Kretschmer include Pizza, Chocolate Truffles, Fried Chicken and Burgers.

"Whether you're making a New Years' resolution to lose weight or are just trying to eat healthier after the indulgent holiday season, wheat germ can help in maintaining a healthy diet while still feeling satisfied," says Elizabeth Fassberg, RD, a member of the Kretschmer Health and Wellness Advisory Team. "Wheat germ is a nutritious superfood that changes little about a recipe's taste or texture but can help reduce calories and fat while upping the health benefits. It's the perfect ingredient to incorporate into a post-holiday diet to help get nutrition back on track."

At only 50 calories per 2-tablespoon serving, Kretschmer Wheat Germ delivers a protein-packed punch of vital nutrients, including:

• Vitamin E: This fat-soluble antioxidant helps to protect cells and tissues from damage and may ward off certain diseases.
• Folic Acid: A must-have for pregnant women—and a good idea for everyone else—this B vitamin helps make healthy new cells to protect against certain cancers.
• Magnesium: This mineral helps keep your heart, bones and immune system strong. Recent data also suggests it may even slash your Type-2 diabetes risk.
• Thiamin: This B vitamin helps convert carbohydrates into energy. It's also essential for the proper functioning of the heart, muscles and nervous system.
• Fiber: Helps promote satiety and aiding in weight management and loss

For cooks seeking easy ways to incorporate this healthful ingredient into their 2014 diets, Kretschmer offers a number of resources on its website, www.mywheatgerm.com. A helpful substitution guide shows how to incorporate wheat germ into existing recipe favorites. The Kretschmer website also has a regularly updated blog housing health and fitness articles, as well as a section of devoted to nutrition.

Kretschmer Wheat Germ comes in two varieties, Original Toasted and Honey Crunch, and is available for purchase in the cereal aisle at major grocers nationwide. For more details about Kretschmer Wheat Germ, visit www.mywheatgerm.com.

About Kretschmer Wheat Germ
An original superfood since 1936, Kretschmer Wheat Germ offers a satisfying and nutrient-dense addition to your favorite recipes. Produced in Manhattan, Kansas, Kretschmer Wheat Germ comes in two varieties, Kretschmer Original Toasted Wheat Germ and Kretschmer Honey Crunch Wheat Germ, and also offers a line of wheat bran, Kretschmer Toasted Wheat Bran. Kretschmer Wheat Germ is available in the cereal aisle of grocery stores throughout the U.S. and Canada. Visit Mywheatgerm.com and on social media on Facebook, www.Facebook.com/MyWheatGerm, Twitter, www.Twitter.com/MyWheatGerm and Pinterest, www.Pinterest.com/MyWheatGerm.

About Continental Mills
Continental Mills, Inc. is a privately held manufacturer and marketer of baking and beverage mixes, snacks and other high quality food products. Located in Tukwila, WA, the family-owned company has strong branded products sold under its Krusteaz®, WildRoots®, Kretschmer® Wheat Germ and Alpine® Cider brands as well as several licensed brands.  Continental Mills' products are sold through retail, foodservice, and club store channels throughout the United States.  

SOURCE Kretschmer Wheat Germ