Whole grains foods contain many nutrients that provide a variety of health benefits. Specifically, whole grains are rich in dietary fiber. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommends individuals consume 25-35 grams of fiber per day. Research has shown that high-fiber diets that include whole grains have been linked to better weigh control and lower risks of coronary heart disease, diabetes, and colorectal cancer. Increase your dietary fiber intake by adding more whole grains in your diet such as whole wheat breads, rolls, pasta and cereals, oatmeal, air-popped popcorn, wild rice, whole wheat tortillas, kasha (roasted buckwheat) and tabouleh.
If you have diabetes and are counting your carbohydrates, don’t be scared of these “healthy’ carbs! Most women need approximately 30-45 grams of carbs per meal and most men need 45-60 grams of carbs per meal in ADDITION to a low fat protein. Here is a refresher on what is considered a serving of whole grain carbs (or equal to 15 grams):
- 1/2 cup bulgur
- 1/2 cup bran cereal
- 1/2 cup cooked oatmeal
- 1/3 cup whole wheat pasta or brown rice
- 3 cups air-popped popcorn
Need more info on carbohydrate servings? Click HERE for the American Diabetes Association’s carbohydrate counting guidelines.
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