Whole Grain Benefits

Have you ever wondered why some products at the grocery store boast that they include whole grains? Are you not even sure what whole grains are? This post can help you figure it all out.

Some of the Benefits of Eating Whole Grains

Chances are you've come across items at the grocery store that boasts being made out of whole grains or you've probably even seen recipes that call for whole grain food items, but what does this mean? If you're not sure what whole grains are or why they matter, this post can help you understand it all a bit better.

What Are Whole Grains?

If you've heard of whole grains but have no idea what they really are, it's really quite simple. Grains, in general, are basically seeds in plants which are called cereals. These include things corn, rice, and wheat, which is why they're often associated with carbs like bread and pasta. All grains are made up of three parts, each of which carries important nutritional elements. In order to be considered whole grains, these must hold on to all three parts. Refined grains only hold on to one part, the endosperm, which is basically all carbs. Enriched refined grains also only hold on to one part but some vitamins and minerals are added back into these. Even so, when eating grains, your best option will be a whole grain. While this sounds like it may be complicated to find, it's really quite easy since there are so many options. You can find all types of cereals, bread, and even pasta made of whole grains, you just have to know where to look. If you're not sure why this even matter, there are actually tons of benefits associated with eating whole grains. Below are just a few of these benefits.

Whole Grains Are Packed With Nutrients

When a grain holds on to all three of its parts, the bran, endosperm, and germ, it will be packed with tons of vitamins and nutrients. You can find fiber, Vitamin B, minerals like zinc and iron, proteins, and even antioxidants in a number of whole grains. The amounts of each will depend on the grain itself. Because they are packed with so many good nutrients, whole grains are a must in your daily diet.

Whole Grains Can Lower Risk of Heart Disease

Heart disease is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, so it's good to know that whole grains can help lower the chances of developing this. In fact, including whole grains in your daily diet can help reduce hypertension and can help reduce lower your blood pressure. You can replace common refined grains with whole grains to reap these benefits. Look for things like whole wheat options, oats, brown rice, and quinoa to reduce your risk of heart disease.

Whole Grains Promote Better Digestion

Since whole grains include quite a bit of fiber, it's no surprise they're known to promote better digestion. In fact, eating whole grains can even ward off digestion issues like diverticulosis. Eating whole grains doesn't mean you have to eat dry, bland meals. In fact, there are tons of yummy treats you can enjoy while still getting your fill of whole grains! To find tons of whole grain options that are delicious, contact your local bakery, Great Harvest of Newtonville! Give them a call at (617) 928-1162 to check out all of their yummy treats!

How to Introduce Whole Grains into Your Diet

Replacing your staple pantry items with whole grain options isn't hard to do at all. During your next grocery shopping trip, pay special attention to the labels and ingredients on the products you normally purchase. Chances are there will be a whole grain option right next to your normal items. Pastas, breads, and cereals all offer great whole grain options that you can use to replace your normal purchases. Many whole grain options make themselves easy to spot by including the words "whole grain" right on the label or packaging. Whole wheat options are easy enough to find, but you can also venture out and try things like quinoa, freekeh, bulgur, and buckwheat.

Treat Yourself at the Best Bakery in Town

Eating whole grains isn't hard. In fact, you can find all sorts of whole grain options at your local bakery. To learn all about the whole grain options available at Great Harvest of Newtonville, give their bakery a call at (617) 928-1162. You can also check out their delicious lunch options here!