Whole grains have been a central part of the human diet since early
civilization. That’s not surprising, given the fact that they provide a host of beneficial nutrients for your body including, iron, fiber, vitamin E, vitamin B and a number of essential enzymes. Grains also have other benefits that contribute to health as well, including helping to reduce heart disease, stroke, obesity and more. But with all their known benefits, why has there been a great grain debate about them lately?

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It is true that grains have been around for thousands of years, but today’s grains are much different than grains of the past. In my book, Wholey Cow A Simple Guide To Eating And Living, I talk a little about how today’s grains are different and how some people can tolerate them and others can’t in the chapter titled, Know Thyself. Most grains today bear little resemblance to the grains found in the diet thousands of years ago.¹ Many grains today are genetically modified and are treated with chemicals to help preserve them give them and give them a longer shelf live. It is no small wonder that many people have developed food allergies, sensitivities and problems tolerating gluten as a result of the modifications. Packaged food items, which have become a staple in the diets of many consumers, contain heavily processed grains. Unfortunately, they  don’t have the same benefits for your body, as eating whole grains.

genetically modified

What Are Whole grains?

Whole grains contain all the essential parts and naturally-occurring nutrients of the entire grain seed in their original proportions.²

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About Grains

Grains are easy to make and can be prepared in a variety of ways. Grains have a distinct texture and mild flavor. If you want to enhance the flavor, you can easily add herbs, spices, vegetables or fruit to a recipe. Many people enjoy grains as a side dish at lunch or dinner. Others may include grains as part of a healthy breakfast. Try adding fruit, nuts, seeds, greens or avocados to your morning rice, oats or quinoa to make it even healthier for you.

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Common Grains

If you are a person who enjoys grains, there are many to choose from.

  • Oats
  • Rice
  • Wheat

Other Grains Available

  • Amaranth
  • Barley
  • Buckwheat
  • Corn
  • Couscous
  • Kamut
  • Millet
  • Quinoa
  • Spelt
  • Teff

There are a number of grains that have gained  popularity recently, such as quinoa and millet, yet they date back to biblical times. If you tolerate grains, why not experiment with other varieties and enjoy their healthful properties? Grains are abundant in supply and can be a healthy addition to the diet for some individuals.

Thanks for reading!

Barb

Sources:
¹Permutter, David. Grain Brain: The Surprising Truth about Wheat, Carbs and Sugar–Your Brain’s Silent Killers. N.p.: n.p., n.d. 62. Print.

²“Definition of a Whole Grain.” Definition of a Whole Grain | The Whole Grains Council, wholegrainscouncil.org/definition-whole-grain.