Whole grains contain three parts: the bran, the germ and the endosperm (refined grains only contain the endosperm).
The bran and germ help keep your body healthy, your skin glowing and your hair shiny.
Including whole grains as part of a healthy diet can help reduce the risk for heart disease, diabetes and some cancers.
Unlike refined grains, It is an unprocessed product from the first harvest that consists of the germ, bran and endosperm.
It packs good nutrients like dietary fibre, minerals, B vitamins, antioxidants and protein and all these promote good gastrointestinal health and weight management. This is due to small amounts of carbohydrates, fats and calories compared to other refined grains.
Below are its examples:
- Barley.
- Brown rice.
- Buckwheat.
- Bulgur (cracked wheat)
- Millet.
- Oatmeal.
- Popcorn.
- Whole-wheat bread, pasta or crackers.
MYTH: Whole grains cause bloating.
This is partially true. Abruptly increasing the amount of fibre you eat from any source can indeed cause gas and bloating. If you currently eat a low-fibre diet and want to increase the amount of whole grains in your diet, increase gradually, so your digestive system has time to adjust.
FACT : Oats are among the healthiest whole grains you can eat.
They’re not only packed with vitamins, minerals and fiber but also naturally gluten-free. What’s more, oats are rich in antioxidants, especially avenanthramide. This antioxidant has been linked to a reduced risk of colon cancer and lower blood pressure.
Find this blog interested? Read more of our blogs here!
Get Healthier and Fitter this 2023!
