Nutritionists encourage us to start our day with grains to provide us with high energy and nutrients. For some of us, we get curious about these magic grains, but we don’t really know what to choose. This month, we present you with a selection of grains which you can easily find in the supermarket to supplement your diet.
Quinoa
Resembles couscous and used mainly in baked goods, soups, and salads. Quinoa came in many colors such as red, black, and white, and it is also packed with nutritious elements like fiber, manganese, magnesium, iron, and essential amino acids that our bodies need.
Millet
Originated from India and several African countries, millet is known for its versatility and a good alternative to rice. It is often used in pilafs, salads, soups, multigrain bread, and even pasta. Millet also helps to control glucose levels and packed in proteins.
Flaxseed
Although not exactly categorized as grains, flaxseed’s rich nutrients make it one of the most sought after healthy food nowadays. Loaded with Omega-3, fibers, and lignans – a powerful antioxidant component found 75 to 800 times more in flaxseed than other plant foods!
Barley
Known popularly for its unique nutty flavor and chewy texture, barley is a grain that is versatile and can be applied in many food and beverages. Barley’s soluble fiber can lower cholesterol and reduces risk of coronary heart disease. While its insoluble fiber reduces the risk of colon cancer and diabetes!
Buckwheat
Used extensively in cooking and often made into gnocchi in Italy, soba in Japan, and as blinis to complement the caviar. So, not only it is delicious but also good for your cardiovascular system, lowers the diabetes risk, prevents gallstones, and many other benefits!
Oats
Probably the famous grains in the whole world, oats is the source of energy for millions as they start their day. Rich in manganese, selenium, phosphorus, fiber, magnesium, and zinc; clearly many don’t have to seek for other grains because of its popularity, unless you’re in for the unique kinds.
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Featured in THE FOODIE MAGAZINE January 2014 edition
Download it for free here via SCOOP!
RIAN FARISA 