The Whole Truth About Whole Grains

Article Provided by Bob’s Red Mill

The whole truth about whole grains

It’s amazing to think that something as simple as a whole grain can pack so much energy and vitality. Sure, they may look innocent enough from the outside, but the real magic lies within. Which leads us to one of the most common questions we get asked, ‘What’s the difference between a whole grain and a processed grain?’ To put it simply, a processed grain is missing some of its most nutritious parts, whereas a whole grain contains all of its nutritional health benefits.

Here’s how it works.
The edible part of every whole grain is known as the kernel and is made up of three major parts: the bran, the germ and the endosperm. Processed grains lack the bran and germ, which are removed during the milling process. The remaining endosperm is what creates a flour’s smooth texture and longer shelf life. Without the bran and germ, the flour is void of the dietary fiber, iron, and B vitamins.

Whole grains, on the other hand, include all three parts of the kernel and provide the body with nutrients like fiber, complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, fatty acids and antioxidants. Now that you know the difference, it’s easy to see why we only use whole grains.

A history of good health

At Bob’s Red Mill we believe in the power of whole grains with a passion. While there’s been a growing awareness of whole grain benefits in recent years, we’ve been providing the highest quality whole grain products to folks since 1978. This may seem like a long time, but humankind has enjoyed the many health benefits of whole grains for thousands of years.

bestAt Bob’s Red Mill, we’re not into food ‘trends’. On the contrary, our philosophy is to keep providing whole grain foods that have endured the test of time. Today, we’re just as committed to bringing you the very best quality products as we were when we first opened our doors, and we look forward to keeping you and your family healthy for many years to come.

Shopping for whole grain products

It’s easy to identify products made from whole grains next time you’re shopping–just look for the black and gold ‘Whole Grain Stamp’ developed by the national Whole Grains Council. To help you achieve the recommended three servings of whole grains a day, look for products labeled ‘Excellent Source’ or ‘100% Excellent’, and choose six whole grain products labeled ‘Good Source.’ This is the best way to ensure that your diet meets the USDA recommendations.

Good health starts with whole grains

When it comes to whole grains, the good news just keeps coming. Recent scientific research has shown that the overall benefit the body receives from whole grains comes from the synergistic effects of fiber, vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. This simply means that they all work in harmony to provide health benefits that are greater than the sum of the individual parts. We won’t go so far as to call it nature’s magical elixir, but it’s not far off.

In fact, studies show that diets rich in whole grains may reduce the risk of heart disease, certain cancers— especially gastrointestinal cancers—and diabetes. And for folks looking to control their weight, whole grains are crucial. Fortunately, apart from their amazing health benefits, whole grains taste great and are very easy to prepare.

Boost your day the whole grain way

Here are some deliciously easy ways to enjoy three servings of whole grains per day. By switching to our whole grain cereals for breakfast, using whole grain bread for sandwiches and adding whole grains to dinner meals, you’ll not only expand your culinary creativity, you’ll feel on top of the world.

What’s Cookin’ at Bob’s Red Mill – Episode 1
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a world of flavor: delicious whole grain recipes

Switch up your next meal with these naturally nutritious whole grain ideas.

• Add sliced banana, raisins and honey to Bob’s Red Mill hot cereal for a breakfast of champions
• Cook with whole wheat pasta instead of regular pasta
• Use whole grain flour or rolled oats for breading
• For hearty hamburgers, meatloaf and casseroles use whole grain crackers or bread crumbs
• Use whole grain flours for up to half the white flour called for in your favorite recipes.

See Our Whole Grain Recipes Now »