TLDR: Eating more grains boosts fiber intake which in turn makes you feel fuller for longer and ensure your gut flora can release hormones that suppress your appetite. Whole grains also are packed with vitamins!
We've all been there before—we're trying to eat healthy and be mindful of our portions, but an hour after lunch we're hit with a case of the hanger grumps. We thought we were doing everything right, but our stomach is growling louder than ever. So what gives? Chances are, you're not eating enough grains.
Grains are essential for a balanced diet and can actually help you feel more satiated throughout the day. Here's a quick rundown on why grains should be a staple in your diet.
The Benefits of Grains
Whole grains are packed with fiber and nutrients that are essential for good health. Just a few of the nutrients found in whole grains include B vitamins, iron, magnesium, and selenium. These nutrients are important for maintaining energy levels, supporting a healthy immune system, and promoting cell growth.
Fiber is another important element of whole grains. In addition to keeping us regular, fiber also helps to regulate blood sugar levels and promotes heart health. Because it takes longer to digest than other types of carbs, fiber keeps us feeling fuller longer—which is why whole grains are an excellent choice for people who are trying to lose weight or manage their weight.
Whole grains should make up at least half of all the grain foods you eat each day. Some examples of whole grains include: whole wheat bread, popcorn, quinoa, oats, brown rice, whole wheat pasta, and barley. Most supermarkets now carry a variety of whole grain products, so it's easy to incorporate them into your diet. Give some of them a try at your next meal and see how they make you feel!
If you're looking for a way to stave off hunger throughout the day, incorporating more whole grains into your diet is a great place to start. Not only do they taste great, but they're also packed with fiber and nutrients that are essential for good health. Give some of them a try at your next meal and see how they make you feel!