The truth about grains

Since early civilization, whole grains have been the central element of the human diet.  Corn was the staple grain in the Americas.  People ate sorghum in Africa.  In the Middle East, people used wheat to make pita breads, couscous, and tabouli. The Europeans were eating corn, millet, wheat, rice, and pasta.  In Asia and India rice was the central grain. 

Why is it that these grains have been around for thousands of years, but only in the past few decades have they been labeled "bad".  I am sure each and every of you know someone who has cut back on carbs, or eliminated them completely from their diet.  You do not need to stay away from carbs, you need to eat the right kind.  

Whole grains are an excellent source of nutrition.  They contain essential enzymes, iron, dietary fiber, vitamin E and B- which are complex vitamins. Since the body absorbs the grains slowly, they provide sustained high quality energy.

Here are some grains that are worth adding to your diet. And remember- just because the package says its made from whole grains does not mean it is.  You need to read the ingredients!  If the first ingredient says unbleached enriched wheat flour, or has high fructose corn syrup in it- then stay away!!  Labels can be deceiving.  Remember- the less ingredients the better.

Quinoa- my favorite of all grains. Quinoa has the highest amount of protein than any other grain, so if you are a vegan or vegetarian I would recommend this grain daily.
Wild rice
Buckwheat
Whole wheat couscous
Oats
Barley


My favorite recipe for quinoa

Rinse 1 cup quinoa
Add to 2 cups of stock or water
Bring to boil, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
 
While the quinoa is cooking, chop these veggies and saute with 1 Tbsp olive oil

1 medium onion
1 cup carrots
2 stalks of celery
1 container of mushrooms

Add salt and pepper.  Combine the veggies with quinoa and enjoy with your favorite healthy main dish.

Some suggestions are:
Grilled salmon with lemon and dill
Sauted portabella mushrooms with balsalmic vinegar and olive oil
Baked teriyaki chicken

I hope you enjoy!