Whole grain foods for healthy eating
One of the most important changes to a diet involves changing from refined grains to whole grains. This can prove to be difficult for the simple matter that while whole grains are better for you, refined grains taste better. This switch is not only recommended for weight loss but for healthy eating in general.
Refined grains - When a product contains refined grains it simply means that it has been stripped of its germ and bran. The product generally goes through modifications before it reaches store shelves. Some products are now enriched with additional vitamins and minerals.
Whole grains - Consist of products that do not go through the same process that refined grains go through. As a result more of the nutrients are saved. One of the most important benefits of whole grains is the amount of fiber it contains. Fiber has been known to decrease and combat diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, and obesity.
Whole grains also provide a longer feeling of being full. Since whole grains are made up of complex carbohydrates, the body breaks them down at a slower pace. The opposite is true of refined grains.
Whole grain products include: brown rice, whole wheat bread, barley and popcorn.
Refined products consist of white rice, white flour, white bread, and pasta.
The switch from refined to whole grains can be a difficult one. Refined products are now being colored and "enriched" to appear healthier. This change only hurts the consumer. When making purchases be sure to read the labels carefully.
More Resources:
The whole grain council - in depth information about whole grains including recipes - http://wholegrainscouncil.org/
Whole grains fight belly fat - a web md article on the benefits of whole grains and fat loss - http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/news/20080225/whole-grains-fight-belly-fat