Reasons to make the switch:
• Whole grains are chock full of fiber, key for proper digestion and bowel function. Aim for a product that has 5 grams of fiber or more per serving.
• They’re heart-healthy. Soluble fibers in whole grains like oats and barley can lower levels of cholesterol, triglycerides, and blood pressure, thereby reducing risk of heart disease.
• They help control diabetes. Whole grains are digested and absorbed more slowly than refined grains, which helps curtail spikes in blood sugar and insulin levels.
• They’re packed with nutrients, including protein, B vitamins, calcium, folic acid, iron, zinc, copper, magnesium, and antioxidants. The same can’t be said for equivalent white products.
• They may help ward off cancer. Studies have associated whole-grain consumption with reduced risk of certain cancers, particularly colorectal.
• They’re satiating. Whole grains stave off hunger better than refined grains do. If you’re looking to lose weight—and keep it off—whole grains can be your ally.
Related articles
- Whole Grains, Whole Diet (health.usnews.com)
- The Importance of Fiber (plantbaseddietadventures.com)
- Why refined grains are inflammatory (yearofthedetox.com)
- Getting Fiber Without Excessive Gas (everydayhealth.com)
- How to Manage Diabetes Naturally (epicahealth.com)
- Whole grain evidence continues to pile up? (bpcorner.wordpress.com)
- The Good News About Whole Grains (yournaturalhealthcareplan.wordpress.com)