Exploring New and Healthy Grains
Carbs tend to get a bad wrap because so many consumers associate them with processed foods such as white bread, cookies, candy, and sugary cereals. However, consuming natural, complex carbs in the form of whole grains as a part of a daily diet is thought to prevent health problems such as heart disease, diabetes, colon cancer, and possibly asthma and Alzheimer’s. Join us as we at Advanced Biotech take a look at some of our favorite grains, their health benefits, and how we like to eat them!
Oats
A gluten-free source of important vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, oats are thought to be one of the healthiest grains on earth. Packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber and antioxidants, oats are thought to promote healthy weight loss, lower blood sugar levels, and a reduce the risk of heart disease. Often eaten in the form of oatmeal, oats have a neutral, slightly nutty flavor that accommodates many different flavors, both sweet and savory. For a sweet start to the day, bananas, berries like strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, shredded coconut, almonds, and peanut butter all make for a nutrient-dense and naturally delicious breakfast. While unconventional, savory oatmeal can also be a tasty morning meal with poached or fried egg, bacon, green onion, salt and pepper.
Brown Rice
Brown rice is packed with nutrients like antioxidants, magnesium, phosphorus, and vitamin B, most of which is lost when processed to make white rice. Slightly nutty, and more firm than white rice, brown rice is also considered a complex carb, meaning that the energy is generates is released slowly into the bloodstream keeping stomachs fuller for longer. Brown rice is extremely versatile and pairs well with everything from chicken to salmon, vegetables and steak. Stir fry brown rice with vegetables and lean protein to create a healthier version or fried rice, or even a lighter, more nutritious version of rice pudding with almond milk, raisins, and cinnamon to garnish. Aromatic varieties such as jasmine and basmati, and exotic red and black rice are also considered to be under this category, and are just as nutritious. Taste them all and see what’s best for you!
Buckwheat
Buckwheat is a whole grain that is known to be a rich source of magnesium, a mineral that is said to lower blood pressure and fight against type 2 diabetes among many other benefits, and in manganese, which boosts brain power. Buckwheat is unique in the sense that it is a grain that even those suffering from Celiac Disease can tolerate, and can be used in a wide variety of both savory and sweet applications. Buckwheat is often processed into buckwheat flour, and can be used to make everything from pancakes to bread and even noodles. Japanese soba noodles are thought to be extremely healthy, and are thought to help control blood sugar while also being high in fiber, low in fat, and rich in protein. Soba noodles can be eaten hot or cold and pair well with ingredients like ginger, soy sauce, seafood, and vegetables for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Whole grain carbs are anything but harmful! Paired with fresh vegetables, fruits, or proteins, whole grains are filling and satisfying.