Editor’s Note: There is so much information and mis-information out there about healthy eating. Eat this…not that…Our Healthy Living Blogger Loni checks in with the low-down on Carbs and the best way to include (or not include) them in your family’s diet.
The Blog: Whole grains are all the rage. So what exactly are they? And what’s the difference between whole grain and products made with whole grain? Here’s how to cut through the confusing marketing jargon so you can make an informed choice.
Imagine planting a row each of wheat, Wheaties and pasta. The whole wheat, with its germ and hull intact, will grow and flourish. Indeed, whole grains are seeds. However, once a grain is flaked, rolled, puffed or milled into flour, it’s no longer a viable seed. It won’t grow. It’s lost its vital life energy.
So even though breakfast cereals, pasta and bread are often marketed as “whole grain”, they’re processed grain products. Even though these products are made with whole grain flours, they’re still processed and have less life energy than the original grain. So it’s ideal to eat actual whole grains more often than processed grains, whether they’re made with whole grain flour or not. Whole grains will keep your blood sugar and energy levels more even than any kind of processed grains.
Note: many people are sensitive to some grains, especially wheat and corn. If you suspect you have a sensitivity get in touch – I can help!
About Loni:
Loni Markman is not your typical Nutrition Consultant! Loni has been working in the field of wellness for almost a decade, helping clients find nourishment and balance in their everyday lives. She focuses on pre and post natal nutrition, weight management and general women’s health. She has a true passion for educating and inspiring others on their journey to better heath.
Loni holds a Masters Degree in Health, a Bachelors in Business, a Certification as a Holistic Health Counselor from the Institute of Integrative Nutrition, a Certification in the Psychology of Eating with Marc David, she holds a Certification from Power Pilates and has extensive studies in Emotional Freedom Technique. All of which she infuses into her integrative coaching with clients. You can learn more about Loni on her websites – www.elementsoffit.com and www.positivebodyprogram.com.
Yes, but that whole grain bread is still better than white bread or wheat bread that isn’t whole grain, because thos NON-whote grain breads are also bleached, and I believe a part of the kernal is removed (and it’s a part you want to eat).
I am just not convinced that bread is bad. People have been eating bread in nearly every culture throughout history. I can believe that we’ve processed some of the goodness out of it, but I don’t think just grinding up grain, adding water and yeast and cooking it somehow turns it into something bad when it started out as good. If it were that bad for you would it have been a cross-cultural stable for ages and ages until now?