Power Of Grains
Grains have been an important food source for people for longer than one might expect. Our ancestors discovered them long before they started enjoying all the good things grains do. Grains have long been an essential part of a healthy diet. Today cereal grains form the foundation of a healthy diet for millions of people. Grains are full of energy-giving nutritious complex carbohydrates, which are the “go-to” fuel for the body and brain. According to the National Institute of Nutrition, ICMR, a balanced diet should provide around 50-60% of total calories from carbohydrates1. They are naturally low in fat, and can be a significant source of some key vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fibre. Details on nutritional benefits of grains can be accessed from Goodness of Grains: Simple, Nutritious and Versatile Newsletter and Goodness of Grains Factsheet.
Studies show that eating whole grains instead of refined grains lowers the risk of many chronic diseases. While benefits are greatest with at least 3 servings daily, some studies show reduced risks from as little as one serving daily2.
The benefits of whole grains most documented by repeated studies include reduced risk of stroke, reduced risk of type 2 diabetes, reduced risk of heart disease, better weight maintenance, less inflammation and lower risk of colorectal cancer2. Health benefits of Whole Grains Newsletter highlights the same. Patients or clients can be educated on benefits of whole grains along with some tips to include whole grains in every meal through a handout Know Whole Grains.
Easy to understand and communicate information on oats can be accessed from the two infographics – Breaking Oats Myths and Oats – The Wonder Grain.
Dietary Guidelines of Indians. National Institute of Nutrition, Indian Council of Medical Research, 2011 https://wholegrainscouncil.org/whole-grains-101/health-studies-health-benefits/what-are-health-benefits. Accessed in July 2018.