What's so good about whole grain ?SHORT BACKGROUND: Cereal grains come in two forms: natural (i.e., whole grain) and refined. Whole grains contain bran and germ, which are a good combined source of dietary fiber, fatty acids, vitamins, zinc, magnesium, etc. Refined grains undergo a removal of this bran and germ, thus making them less nutritious than whole grains.
WHOLE GRAIN FOR THE BODY:
Research has shown an association between whole grain intake and a decrease in the risk for type 2 diabetes. This is especially important for those (including me) who have a family history of this condition. Research has also shown that whole grain intake may reduce weight, total cholesterol, and LDL ("bad") cholesterol. Aside from these studies, the various nutrients contained in whole grains are simply good for the body.
WHOLE GRAIN FOR THE HAIR:
Whole grain is additionally beneficial for the hair, ranking amongst the "Top 10 Foods for Healthy Hair" on WebMD. The zinc, iron, and B vitamins contained in whole grains are especially critical for growing hair. A zinc deficiency, for example, can lead to hair shedding.
HOW I GET MY WHOLE GRAIN?:
Nature's Path Organic Cereal, Pumpkin Raisin Crunch, Flax Plus ; Whole Wheat Bread; Whole Wheat Hamburger Buns; Oat Meal. Brown rice occasionally.
HOW TO TELL IF WHOLE GRAIN?:
Read the ingredients label to confirm whether a product contains whole grains. Key words like "whole wheat flour" or "whole oats" indicate whole grain. Ideally, this key word should be listed as the first ingredient. For more info, see references "LABELS" below.
REFERENCES for WHOLE GRAIN and ...
LABEL READING
IDENTIFYING WHOLE GRAINS
WIKI & WHOLE GRAINS
WHOLE GRAIN FACTS
DIABETES & WHOLE GRAIN
WEIGHT, CHOLESTEROL, WHOLE GRAIN
TOP 10 FOODS FOR HEALTHY HAIR
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