5 Questions About The Goodness Of Grains

Corn, rice, and wheat — these grains are pretty familiar to everyone, but some of the facts around them are not. Known as nature powerhouses, true grains come from plants in the grass family that have edible seeds. Grains like quinoa and buckwheat are pseudo-grains that come from non-grasses, but are similar in composition and use to true grains. Read on to learn about the benefits of incorporating a variety of grains in your diet.

WHY ARE SOME NUTRIENTS ADDED TO GRAINS?
When nutrients are lost during grain milling, they’re added back to the flours in a simple process called enrichment. This typically includes a variety of vitamins, folic acids and mineral iron, all of which are important for public health.

DO WHOLE GRAINS HAVE ANTIOXIDANTS?
Like fruits and vegetables, whole grains contain a broad range of antioxidants, including polyphenols and carotenoids, which all help to prevent diseases.

DO GRAINS HAVE PROTEIN?
Yes! In fact, wheat alone provides approximately 20% of the protein consumed by more than half of the world’s population.

DO GRAINS CONTAIN CARBS?
Yes, grains along with fruits, vegetables and dairy products are a nutritious source of carbohydrates. It is recommended that people consume between 45 and 65% of their daily calories from carbohydrates, which fuel the body and the brain.*

IS THERE A HEALTHIEST GRAIN?
The simple answer is, there is no healthiest grain. Whole and enriched grains may contain fiber, protein, iron, folate and zinc in varying levels which are all important for energy and good health.