Why Should You Be Eating Whole Grains?

Those of us old enough to remember commercials can picture the scene clearly. It’s a beautiful weekend morning, the children are gathered around the table. In walks mom smiling, she opens the cupboard to reveal (insert angelic choir here) the whole grain cereal. The children rejoice! They are happy because it’s Saturday AND their beloved cereal is delicious and mom is happy too. But why? Because mom knows that Whole Grain is exactly what her growing children need!

The knowledge is known, “mom” made that pretty clear, whole grains are good for you. But do you know why? Lucky for you and so many others we at Arrowhead Mills once asked that same question and found out some awesome information that we can assure you even “mom” didn’t know.

What is a Whole Grain?

 Whole Grain is used to refer to the entire seed comprised of three parts: the bran, the germ and the endosperm. The bran is the fiber filled outer skin of the seed that contains antioxidants and B vitamins. The germ refers to germination, this is the part of the seed that sprouts into a plant. This part of the seed is full of protein, minerals, unsaturated fats as well as B vitamins. Lastly, is the endosperm which is mostly made up of carbohydrates and protein. If the seed were to in fact sprout, this would provide the initial nutrients and fuel needed to do so.

Why Whole Grains?

While whole grains are loaded with beneficial fibers, energy rich carbohydrates, minerals, b vitamins, selenium, magnesium, Vitamin E and iron to name a few, their counterparts, commercialized grains, not only are refined, but are also missing many of these beneficial nutrients. The process of commercialization usually involves removing either the hull or germ, in some cases both. In so doing this process does leave behind some of the proteins and carbohydrates. Unfortunately, the results are a full feeling without truly feeding the body as a whole… enter in whole grain for the win!

Studies confirm the long term switch to whole grains offer real lasting health benefits. We are not referring to anything trivial either, we are talking about: reducing rates of chronic disease, weight management, slowing the progression of heart disease, lowering cardiovascular risk, lowered blood pressure, and decreased overall inflammation. With so many health benefits at stake, it’s hard to find a reason not to make the switch.

With many whole grains offering these amazing benefits and the technological age booming at our fingers offering tricks, tips and recipes galore— good health is quite literally in your hands! Arrowhead Mills is happy to offer many whole grains like Quinoa, Bulgur, Rye, Millet, and Barley just to name a few. Check out our website for recipes including many of these whole grains for your daily use. The only thing left really is … *adds to cart*

About Megan Boehm

Megan is an entrepreneur and writer living in Tennessee. Her research in sustainability and organic foods has influenced her lifestyle and led her to pursue her own sourdough bread business. As a mother and business-owner, Megan is always looking to educate readers on healthy and sustainable living.