Word Count: 641 Date: Mon, 17 Nov 2008 5:30 PM
Why Whole Grains Will Grow On You
Living in today's world where health and weight maintenance are a growing paranoia, you've most likely heard the words 'whole grain' in every conversation regarding health foods that you've ever had. You've also most likely heard that although health foods are good for you, they are seriously lacking in flavor. Now, this might put up a red flag for you, but don't turn down whole grains just yet.
Many of your very favorite foods either contain or can be substituted for a yummy whole grain substitute. Plus, there are a large number of health benefits when you supplement whole wheat into your everyday diet. Don't believe me? Go ahead and read on to know why it's so great to go grain crazy.
The Skinny on Whole Wheat
So, by now I'm sure you're wondering just why whole wheat is so good for you. Whole wheat contains complex carbohydrates, which are groups of three or more sugar molecules, or starches, linked together. Now, I know most people associate carbohydrates with weight gain, but that's not completely true. Simple Carbohydrates, which are two starch molecules linked together, are what you really must watch out for.
You see, although you should eat any carbohydrate in moderation, complex carbohydrates pack a special kick by containing more fiber and vitamins, so it takes much longer for the body to digest. As for simple carbohydrates, the simple carbohydrates cause blood sugar to rise, and as a defense mechanism your body will send an S.O.S. to your pancreas to produce an abundance of Insulin. What does this mean for you? Well, Insulin is the body's natural fat storing system and I'm sure you can understand this means everyone's biggest fear: weight gain! Yikes.
So just make sure to watch out for candy, table sugar (sucrose), milk sugar (galactose), glucose and fructose (fruit sugar). Just remember, all those names rhyme with what word? Gross! So you should really eat them in moderation, and enjoy some complex carbohydrate rich foods like - you said it! - whole wheat products. Yum!
Sneak Attack!
Yes, it is natural to be skeptical of changing anything in one's life if it's been a routine for a while, especially when it comes to your diet. I'll let you in on a little secret, though. If you've ever done your health food homework, you would know that whole grains are found in allot of every day foods that every one in the world eats such as:
- Popcorn
- Breads
- Pasta
- Rice
- Oatmeal
- Pastries
- Pancakes
Basically anything that requires baking can use whole wheat! So don't be afraid to substitute some of your favorite foods for whole wheat options, you won't notice any difference in the taste of your meals, but a big change in how you feel and look!
3 Servings a Day Keeps the Doctor Away!
So now that we've covered the main course, its time for our dessert. You know now that whole wheat prevents weight gain and some seriously tasty foods contain whole wheat and that whole wheat can prove as a healthy and delicious substitute for many baking options. I'm sure you didn't also know, however, that grains are a super powered when it comes to fighting disease.
Whole grains have been proven to decrease the risk of heart disease by erasing cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood coagulation. Not to mention it also helps cure cancer. Studies have also shown that whole grains can lower blood glucose in those suffering from diabetes, and that people who eat three servings of whole wheat daily weigh less than those who consume less. Gooo super food!
About the Author
Dr. Grandmas sells nutritious whole wheat mixes and wheat berries (aka: wheat kernels). To learn more about whole wheat foods and to find some great wheat berry recipes visit http://www.doctorgrandmas.com
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