Whole Grains for the Win!
By Donna Stark
Carbohydrates have been getting a bad rap for years, and while it's true that some of them are bad for your overall health, the ones from whole grains are a must if you want to maintain a healthy diet. Whole grains produce energy, provide fiber, lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, and stabilize blood sugar levels. They really can make a difference in your life, so perhaps it's time to start thinking about ways to replace your refined grains with them. Do you think your family will support this change? It may be a hard sell at first, but it will be worth it in the end!
Swapping Carbohydrates
Introducing new foods (especially those darn healthier ones) to your family may not be the easiest thing to do. But, as with any other challenge that improves the well-being of your loved ones, the time and effort it takes will soon be forgotten once everyone gets on board. Here are some delicious suggestions to start the process.
- Substitute flour - If you love to bake and do it often, sneak some whole-wheat flour into your mixes or replace your all-purpose flour with it completely! Chances are, unless your family members are experienced food tasters, they won't even be able to tell the difference.
- Serve oatmeal for breakfast - Have you heard the saying that a bowl of oatmeal helps to keep the heart doctor away? Oatmeal has a powerful effect on cholesterol levels in the body and is extremely family-friendly. Make a batch of it every morning and set out different toppings for everyone to choose from. Sliced bananas, shredded coconut, and chopped fruit are perfect for this.
- Use whole-grain bread and pasta - It's time to ditch that fluffy white bread and regular box of pasta in your pantry and opt for something a little more healthier! Making your sandwiches and creating fabulous pasta dishes with whole-grain bread and noodles is definitely one of the easiest and tastiest steps toward better health.
- Buy brown rice - It may take some time to get used to, but if you want the benefits from as many vitamins and fiber you can get, you should switch to brown rice immediately! Pull out your favorite recipes that call for rice and start cooking with this new ingredient. You won't be sorry!
Whole Grains for the Win!
Getting your family to consume more whole grains in their diet may take some time and patience, but remember, the end result will be worth it! Even if you have to start with baby steps, you won't regret doing so. Here's to better health in the upcoming year!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Holly Springs, N.C.