Whole grains are some of the most important foods you can eat. The 20th century saw the rise of white breads and refined grains, which function essentially as empty calories. Whole grains have some of the most amazing health benefits that you can get from food. Read on to learn 3 of the best.
Reduced risk of chronic diseases
Whole grains have a high number of vitamins and minerals that your body needs to stave off chronic diseases such as, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, etc.:
Fiber
Dietary fiber is one of the most important aspects of whole grains’ health profile. The majority of the fiber is located in the bran.
Vitamins
Whole grains are especially high in B complex vitamins, including thiamine, niacin, and folate.
Minerals
Whole grain is a great source of trace minerals, like iron, zinc, manganese, and magnesium.
Protein
You can easily get several grams worth of protein in a serving of whole grains. This helps with your digestion and achieving satiety.
Antioxidants
Whole grains have many different compounds that function as antioxidants, which are important for boosting your immune system and protecting your body against the development of cancer.
Plant compounds
Whole grains contain various plant compounds that help to prevent disease, like stanols, polyphenols, and sterols.
Maintain digestive system health
One of the most important parts of whole grains is that it has dietary fiber. Dietary fiber is all about regulating and maintaining your digestive system. It helps you feel satiated, and feel the need to eat less, meaning you have a lower caloric intake overall. Dietary fiber is also good for treating constipation and helping to counteract diarrhea.
B complex vitamins
B complex vitamins play important role in your body’s health. They maintain your body’s metabolism, convert food into energy, function as an antioxidant, aid in NDA and cellular repair, and help with hormone production.