POSTED FEBRUARY 29, 2017

Whole Grain Guide

Health experts recommend that half of the grains a person eats be “whole grains”, but what is a whole grain? All grains start life as a whole grain containing three edible parts: the bran, germ and endosperm.

The bran: The multilayered outer skin of the edible kernel that contains important antioxidants, B vitamins and fiber.
The germ: The embryo which has the potential to sprout into a new plant that contains many B vitamins, some protein and minerals and healthy fats.
The endosperm: The germ’s food supply that contains starchy carbohydrates, proteins and small amounts of vitamins and minerals.

A grain is considered a whole grain when it contains all three original parts, all present in the same proportions as when the grain was growing in the fields.

Whole grains include grains like wheat, corn, rice, oats, barley, quinoa, spelt, sorghum and rye. Whole grains contain valuable antioxidants not found in fruits and vegetables, such as B vitamins, vitamin E, magnesium, iron and fiber. Whole grains reduce the risk of heart disease stroke, cancer, diabetes and obesity. People who eat whole grains regularly have lower levels of cholesterol. Recent studies have also revealed that whole grains reduce the risk of asthma and inflammatory disease, as well as provide healthier carotid arteries and blood pressure levels.

Cento understands the importance of eating whole grains to promote healthy eating habits and offers pasta in both Whole Grain and Whole Wheat varieties. Anna Whole Grain Pasta bears the Whole Grain Council’s 100% Whole Grain Stamp, meaning all ingredients used in the pasta are whole grains and contain a minimum of 56 grams of whole grains per serving. The Whole Grains Council is a nonprofit consumer advocacy group that works to increase consumption of whole grains for better health, help consumers find whole grain foods and understand their health benefits. Made with 8 whole grains and available in a variety of cuts, Anna Whole Grain Pasta offers a healthy option without sacrificing taste. The whole grains in Anna Whole Grain Pasta include:

Whole Grain Buck Wheat

A cousin of rhubarb containing high levels of an antioxidant called rutin, which improves circulation and prevents LDL cholesterol from blocking blood vessels
Provides nutrients, vitamins, energy and fiber
High levels of zinc, copper, manganese and potassium
Great source of protein

Whole Grain Kamut

An heirloom grain containing higher levels of protein and vitamin E than common wheat

Whole Grain Rye

Contains a high level of fiber with a lower glycemic index
The fiber in rye promotes a rapid feeling of fullness, making rye a good choice for people trying to lose weight
Helps fight certain types of cancer and diabetes; helps prevent gallstones

Whole Grain Barley

Highest in fiber of all whole grains
Helps lower cholesterol

Whole Grain Millet

A gluten-free whole grain
Naturally high in protein and antioxidants
Can help control blood sugar and cholesterol

Whole Wheat

A great source of fiber and antioxidants
Contains 25% more protein than traditional pasta

Whole Grain Brown Rice

Lower in fiber than other whole grains, but richer in many nutrients
One of the most easily digested grains and perfect for those on a restricted diet or those who are gluten-intolerant
Good source of selenium and magnesium

Whole Spelt

Milder than other grains and higher in protein than common wheat
Contains many vitamins and minerals
Prevents high blood sugar levels