Here's to Whole Grains!

I have been thinking a lot about our grains and legumes rule. I think a lot of you have too as you have asked for some ideas on what is out there for whole grains. Legumes, well that will be my next post. It can be tough getting these grains into our food everyday. So I came across this list of grains and the benefits of eating them and thought I’d share. Some of my favorites are popcorn, whole wheat bread, brown rice, oatmeal and of course quinoa. I hope this list helps. I think it will help me. Also here is a link to a great site for ideas: wheatfoods.org 

List of Whole Grains ©

Sliced bread

Bagels

Tortillas

English muffins

Pita bread

Dinner rolls or other buns

Whole wheat or brown rice pasta

Brown or wild rice

Whole oats

Whole wheat or whole grain cereals

Whole wheat flour or rye flour

Popcorn

Whole wheat or whole grain crackers

Bulgur (cracked wheat)

Buckwheat

Millet

Barley

Wheatberries

Quinoa

The health benefits, besides being pretty yummy,  of eating whole grains rather than refined products are numerous. Unrefined, whole grains are great sources of nutrients, including:

Natural, soluble fiber

Vitamin E

Vitamin B-6

Zinc

Potassium

Folate

Protein

Iron

Thiamin

Riboflavin

Other benefits to eating whole grains include the full feeling you get when you swap whole grains for refined grains in your meals. This feeling of fullness lasts much longer than with refined products, which can help with weight loss.  WhooHoo - Yeah Grains! ©