Why whole grain?
We eat less rice, ignore bananas and forget pastas and white bread because they contain carbohydrates. But not all carbohydrates give fat. Whole grains and food items made of whole grains (bread) contain carbohydrates. These are complex carbohydrates which are unlike the simple carbohydrates present in grains like white rice and sugar. The complex carbohydrates are difficult to digest but have great nutritional values.
Whole grains contain antioxidants, minerals, B vitamins, fiber, protein and small amounts of healthy fats and less calories! Thus they provide balanced nutrition and fill the stomach without giving extra fat or calories.
Popular whole grains
- Wheat- Whole wheat is so popular because of its health benefits. It contains folic acid, Vitamin E and other essentials like magnesium, potassium, phosphorus, selenium manganese and zinc. It can improve muscular energy and strength, protect the body from stress and helps to improve the body reflexes. Further, it protects the body from the risk of heart disease, fortifies the immune system and helps people with constipation.
- Barley- contains lot of fiber and minerals phosphorous, copper, manganese and selenium. A light meal of barley can be great for both kids as well as adults.
- Oats- Steel Cut Oats are very low in calories and are ideal diet choice for weight watchers. They contain protein,fiber, magnesium, zinc, and vitamin E. It is great elders too as it can lower cholesterol, blood sugar level and even aid weight loss.
- Brown rice- It contains 3 1/2 grams of fiber whereas white rice consists of only 1 gram per cup. It is also an excellent source of manganese while containing selenium and magnesium in good amounts. Research shows that women (after menopause) may have cardiovascular benefits by having a staple diet of brown rice.
Look for a whole-grain stamp next time you visit your supermarket and enjoy weight loss!
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