Four Ways to Rethink Your Grains

Grains such as breads and pastas are a main staple for many Americans. With September being Whole Grains Month, I wanted to share some ways to help you revamp your grains and think outside the box when it comes to eating.

Don’t use grains as the main attraction: Grains can be included in your meals but shouldn’t be the main component. Instead of having a plate full of pasta or a big bowl of cereal in the morning, think beyond the grains and focus more on non-starchy vegetables as the main component of a meal. Non-starchy vegetables such as broccoli, zucchini, and spinach are lower in carbohydrates (which is beneficial for weight loss) and full of cancer-fighting antioxidants. A good rule of thumb is to use grains as a side dish, (and keep it to 1/2 cup per meal) instead of the main attraction of the meal.

Go sprouted: Sprouted grains are a healthier alternative to traditional grains because they are a lot easier for our bodies to digest and help enhance the absorption of key vitamins and minerals such as B Vitamins, Vitamin C, and folate. Look for the word “sprouted” on grains such as breads or crackers for a healthier option.

Try something new: Ancient grains such as kamut, farro and spelt have increased in popularity lately and are a great way to add some diversity to your diet. Not sure how to incorporate ancient grains? Add farro to soups, or kamut on top of salads. Looking for gluten-free ancient grains? Try quinoa, millet, or amaranth which are all ancient grains that do not contain gluten (a protein found in wheat that some people cannot consume).

Always pair grains with a protein or healthy fat: Grains are mainly carbohydrates, which means it’s difficult to stay full when consuming them alone. That’s because when we consume carbohydrates by itself we do not receive a signal to our brain that we are full, which can cause us to overeat them. On the other hand, when we consume protein or healthy fat we do receive a signal to our brain that we are full. That’s why it’s best to pair a carbohydrate with a protein or healthy fat to help keep us full and keep our metabolisms revved up all day long!

If you would like more ideas or information on ways to improve your eating habits, schedule a dietary consult today by contacting us!

Health and Happiness,

Autumn Enloe, MS, RD, LD
Registered Dietitian
Live Your Life^TM
Bringing Physical Therapy & Wellness to You!

Autumn Enloe is a Registered, Licensed Dietitian who holds a Master’s degree in Food and Nutritional Sciences. Autumn has worked with hundreds of clients on areas such as weight management, blood sugar support, gut health, mindful eating, and food sensitivities.  She applies a holistic approach to nutrition and knows that our health is based on much more than just what we eat.