National Whole Grains Month
By: Colleen | September 17, 2008 | Category: Health
I was once a white-bread eater. As a kid, anything with the word "grain" in it made me cringe. Now, ever older and wiser, chowing down on white bread is the equivalent of eating paste.
As a reformed eater of refined grains, I am pleased to report that September is National Whole Grains Month. A whole grain is one that still has its covering, which contains the grain's fiber and many of its vitamins and minerals.
Whole grains are a great source of essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. They are also a major supply of fiber, help decrease the risk of heart disease, and can aid in weight loss.
The USDA suggests that adults get between three and five portions of whole grains per day. What are some easy ways to sneak some more whole grains into your daily diet?
- Make sure your bread label reads, "100% whole grain" or "100% whole wheat." Otherwise, it may just be a mix of refined and whole grain.
- Use whole grain pastas when cooking. You'll never notice the difference. (Trust me, I had a dinner party with a whole grain baked ziti- none of my guests were the wiser.)
- Bake with whole-wheat flour. The coloring of your famous cookies may be slightly different, but the taste remains the same.
- Order your Friday night pizza with whole grain dough. Many national chains, like Papa John's, are offering this.
- Substitute brown rice for white with your meals.
Whole grains are also essential for those who have celiac disease and need to maintain a gluten-free diet.
Does anyone have any tasty whole-grain recipes to share? Any suggestions for packing more whole-grains into your diet?
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