8 Whole Grains You're Probably Not Eating

By Cynthia Sass, MPH, RD You've probably had oatmeal for breakfast, and if you haven't yet tried quinoa I bet you've heard of it, or have seen it on a menu or social media recipe (it's all over Pinterest!). But there are many other whole grains you may not be familiar with, and incorporating them into your food repertoire is well worth the learning curve. Whole grains are white hot among chefs and nutritionists. They're versatile, satisfying and in addition to providing slow-burning starch (think sustained energy!), vitamins, minerals and antioxidants, whole grains are health protective. Their consumption is tied to a lower risk of heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes and obesity (yes, a lower risk of obesity). Here are eight to try, plus easy, delicious ways to incorporate them into meals and snacks. (And for those with Celiac disease or a gluten intolerance, the first six are gluten-free.) Black Rice Black rice is popping up on menus all over the place, in items from sushi to meatloaf. The natural pigment that gives black rice its hue is due to a unique antioxidant tied to protection against heart disease, cancer, and obesity. This is why compared to brown rice, black rice packs more potent anti-inflammatory properties, as well as higher levels of protein, iron and fiber. While I've made black rice at home, my local Thai restaurant offers it as a side, and I'll use the leftovers in a variety of ways, including as the base for a hot cereal (made with unsweetene...
Source: Healthy Living - The Huffington Post - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news