What is a grain? Better yet what is a whole grain? A whole grain contains all three parts of the grain. This includes the bran, endosperm, and the germ. Here’s the scoop about each part of the grain:
- The bran is the outer part of the grain that is rich in fiber, vitamin B and phytochemicals.
- The endosperm contains protein and carbohydrates which enhances the energy you get from eating the grain.
- The grain contains the germ which is the inner most part of the whole grain and it contains vitamins, minerals and healthy fats.
- Whole grains have many benefits on your body, but most of the time what you eat only contains a portion of the whole grain and not all three parts.
Many times the distributors can be tricky by using words such as “‘100% Wheat” instead of “Whole Grain” be careful when choosing the whole grains. When foods are whole grains they may include the stamp shown below.
Also, check out the Whole Grains Council, they have great information! Whole grains are very rich in vitamins and minerals. Whole grains provide loads of nutrition including: fiber, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, folate, iron, magnesium, and selenium.
The USDA’s slogan is “Make Half Your Grains Whole! Remember you are what you eat, make it “100%”.
Post written by MSU dietetics students, Sarah Davis and Crosby Keller