In an age of fad diets, people seem to be scared of carbohydrates.
“Low-Carb”
“No-Carb”
These diet buzz words are popping up everywhere! But, is a diet without carbohydrates good for you?
Let’s start by asking the question: “What is a carbohydrate?”
- A nutrient in food that provides a major source of energy. Usually found in grains, fruits, starchy vegetables and milk based dairy foods. Is broken down to glucose in the blood stream and raises blood glucose levels. (http://www.australiandiabetescouncil.com/)
Yes, carbohydrates can raise blood glucose levels, which may present a problem for those with Diabetes if unmonitored. However, a diet rich in nutrient-packed whole grains has been linked to reductions in heart disease, hypertension, certain cancers, Type 2 Diabetes, and other chronic conditions.
Whole grains are lower on the glycemic index than refined grains (white rice, white flour) because whole grains are good sources of fiber, vitamins & minerals, and protein.
In fact, a study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found a diet rich in whole grains was associated with less overall body fat!
Whole Grains include:
- Whole Wheat Bread and Flour
- Brown Rice – Gluten-Free
- Spelt
- Oats
- Barley
- Corn – Gluten-Free
- Rye
- Sorghum – Gluten-Free
- Millet – Gluten-Free
Seeds with Properties Similar to a Whole Grain:
- Buckwheat – Gluten-Free
- Amaranth – Gluten-Free
- Quinoa – Gluten-Free
Be sure to choose ORGANIC whole grains to ensure they contain no genetically modified ingredients (click here for more GMO information), no added hormones or antibiotics, and are grown without the use of toxic chemicals or persistent pesticides.
Rollin’ Oats Recipe Suggestion:
Comfort Muffins
(Wheat-Free, Dairy-Free)
Ingredients:
- 2 1/4 cup Bob’s Red Mill Quick Cooking Oats
- 1/4 cup chopped Walnuts
- 1/4 cup Tree of Life Organic Raisins
- 1/4 cup organic Brown Sugar
- 1 Tblsp Baking Powder
- 1 1/4 cup Unsweetened, Organic Almond Milk (or milk of choice)
- 2 Egg Whites
- 2 Tblsp Oil
Directions:
- Preheat your oven to 425 degrees F.
- Spray a muffin tin with non-stick cooking spray, or line with paper liners.
- In a medium bowl, combine Oats, Walnuts, Raisins, Brown Sugar, and Baking Powder.
- In a separate bowl, combine Almond Milk, Egg Whites, and Oil.
- Add the wet ingredients to the dry and stir to combine.
- Spoon batter into prepared muffin tin.
- Bake 11-15 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Allow to cool on a wire rack.
