Monday, March 19, 2012

Featured Organics: What are Grains?



Grains are a major fuel that our bodies need in order to function properly. Yet, we take grains for granted by either purchasing instant variations or skipping them altogether thinking that we are better without them. Grains are low in fat and assist us with proper digestion, increases our energy, and even reduces the risk of heart disease. Grains should be properly cooked for better assimilation of their nutrients. Make proper selections for grains, such as those that are rich in protein and gluten free. So, what are grains?

Brown Rice
Brown rice is renowned all over the world. Some of the varieties include: Indian rice, which is long and the texture is fluffy and light and Japanese rice, which is short and has a sticky texture. Both are delicious and can be used for a variety of meals. The wonderful benefits of brown rice is that it is packed with Folate and
B Vitamins which support the cardiovascular system reducing the risk of heart disease. Brown rice is also wonderful for weight loss because the high content of fiber found in this power food. It can be purchased gluten free.

Quinoa
Quinoa is the mother of grains. Originating from the Andes Mountains, South America, Quinoa is an ancient grain of the Incas that has reemerged. Quinoa has a nutty, delicate texture. It is delicious served hot with vegetables and served cold over a bed of greens. A unique quality of quinoa is that it is a complete protein by way of essential amino acids. It is very beneficial to those looking for alternative ways of receiving protein away from the common animal proteins. Quinoa is naturally gluten free.



Amaranth
Amaranth is an ancient grain that has a history spanning thousands of years in Mexico. It was the grain of the Aztecs and the Mayans. Amaranth has a rich, nutty flavor. It is delicious with vegetables or added to a bread mix for a bread with complete protein. Amaranth is rich in the amino acid, Lysine, which gives Amaranth its unique quality. It is high in protein, which makes a wonderful substitute to animal proteins. Amaranth's Lysine value is greater than that of even quinoa and other grains. Amaranth also is good for weight loss, aids in the prevention of cancer and supports the cardiovascular system due to its high fiber content. Amaranth is also naturally gluten free.

Chia Seeds
Chia Seeds are wonderful for weight loss. When adding water to them it causes the seeds to become a gel and when eaten makes us feel full, assisting in the decrease of food cravings. Chia Seeds also have strong age- defying antioxidants which aids in the prevention of cancer. Among being gluten free, Chia Seeds are also rich in Omega- 3's which aid in weight loss, circulation, and gives the skin an amazing glow!



Grains are a very important part of our diet. They are rich in nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and even protein. When we saturate them with butter and gorge ourselves with them, we make them bad to consume, not nature. Examples of modern people that consume grains consistently are the people of Asia such as in India, China, and Japan. These people eat rice on a daily basis and studies have shown that they have healthier and longer life spans than that of those of us in the United States.  Eating in a balanced manner gives our bodies the opportunity to receive what nature has given us.

For more knowledge on grains click on these links:

http://ofthesun.org/food-for-life-a-guide-to-extraordinary-living/

http://www.mychiaseeds.com/Articles/Top10ChiaBenefits.html

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