Monday, February 16, 2009

The Benefits of Wheat Berries

By Scott Davis

Living in our modern cities we have forgotten what farming is. We don't remember what it was like to till and plant and grow crops. And especially what it was to eat simple, wholesome good foods.

But there has been a resurgence reminding us of the importance of whole foods. Reminding us of simpler times when people didn't eat overly processed foods. This whole foods revival has reminded us that things like whole wheat berries, the fancy name for whole wheat kernels, contain a more complete set of nutrients.

Remembering the Old Healthy Ways

Whole wheat berries come in several varieties. Both hard and soft wheat berries can be used for baking and in every day foods. These wheat berries are filled with fiber, iron and vitamins B and C. They can be cooked and eaten whole, which is great for breakfasts or salads. Wheat berries can also be milled into healthy whole wheat flour. Then you can use that flour to make cakes, pastas, cookies or whatever.

All You Need is Some Creativity

There are a lot of different things you can do with whole wheat. Since we don't cook as much whole wheat directly now days, you will want to find some "old" recipes. It just takes some trial and experimentation. It may be a little different at first, especially with family members who are used to enriched white flour foods, but with time they can adjust to the changes in diet.

Using More Whole Wheat

Immediately switching to whole wheat and grains may seem like quite a shock to people who are used to processed foods. But it doesn't have to be like that. This isn't an all or nothing thing. By slowly adding whole wheat and whole grains to your diet you can make it a smooth transition. Start using whole grains by swapping standard items for their whole grains alternatives. Doing it like that will make the process go so much smoother.

Reviewing the Food Pyramid

They US Food Pyramid recommends between 6 and 11 servings of whole grains a day. This can include wheat berries and other cereals, breads and pastas. On serving is 1 slice of bread or a half-cup of cereal or pasta. So it is pretty easy to gradually add whole grains to your diet, one serving at a time. - 15634

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