Photo courtesy of Metro Creative Graphics

2006: The year of the whole grain

(NC)—The low-carb diet craze has subsided and with Canadians hungering for a new trend, the rising popularity of whole grains just might fit the bill.

There are many reasons why whole grains are in the diet spotlight, including a recommendation by Canada's Food Guide to Healthy Eating to choose whole grains more often. So, it's time to get up to speed on the whole grain story to make them a part of your diet in 2006.

What are whole grains?

Whole grains contain all of the three parts of the kernel: the bran, the germ and the endosperm. They contain essential vitamins and minerals and give you the carbohydrate fuel your body needs for energy.

Why are whole grains important?

Whole grains contain dietary fibre and protective components that have a positive impact on overall health. They contain antioxidants and phyto-chemicals that protect against heart disease.

The fibre in whole grains has been linked to reducing the risk of other serious conditions including breast and colon cancer.

Shopping for whole grains

Now that whole grains are getting some attention, Canadians are looking for easy ways to incorporate them into their diets.

"There's no disputing that whole grain snacks and foods are better choices," says Lori Kelly, dietitian at Quaker-Tropicana. "We're actually seeing consumers demand whole grain alternatives."

Kelly suggests a few easy – and tasty - ways to include whole grains in your diet and reap the benefits:

• Choose wholegrain cereals, like Quaker Oatmeal, whole grain bagels or bread for breakfast

• Snack on whole grain corn and rice cakes, like Quaker Crispy Wholegrain Cakes, or crackers

• Use whole wheat pasta

• Serve brown rice with any fish or meat entree

• Add bulgur, sorghum or barley to your favourite soup

Sources: www.quakeroatmeal.com, www.wholegrainscouncil.org,