Whole grains encompass the entire grain kernel – bran, germ, and endosperm – while refined grains undergo a processing that removes the bran and germ eliminating many essential nutrients such as dietary fiber, B vitamins, iron. Whole grain examples include whole wheat flour, oatmeal, and brown rice, while refined grains include white flour, white bread, …
Please use this tool to create your weekly shopping list for well balanced meals for you and your family. To print this tool or for more resources similar to this, please visit choosemyplate.gov. By Lauren McCollum
Function of Protein Protein is made up of amino acids which are the building blocks of life. Protein is essential to the structural components of our body such as DNA, bones, cartilage, musculature, skin and even hair. It aids in both the repairing and the building of our cells as well as muscles. Protein is …
When filling your plate with food, you want to ensure it is full of colorful fruits and vegetables as these contain powerful nutrients that ensure the body receives a comprehensive array of essential elements! These nutrients include antioxidants, phytochemicals, vitamins, and minerals. As the image depicts below, colors often signify a particular element with its …
Prebiotics are non-digestible compounds that nourish beneficial gut bacteria, fostering improved digestion, immune function, and metabolic health. Probiotics, live microorganisms, contribute to a balanced gut microbiota, supporting digestion, immune response, and potentially mental health. Both prebiotics and probiotics have shown promise in managing conditions like IBS, diarrhea, and skin issues. Emerging research suggests a possible …
Metabolism is the intricate process by which the nutrients contained in the food we ingest are transformed into a specialized form of energy, designed to power the various cells within our bodies. As food undergoes digestion and processing, it culminates in the creation of fundamental building blocks, namely fatty acids, amino acids, and glucose. These …
Eating more fiber offers a wide range of health benefits for your body. Here are several reasons why you should consider incorporating more fiber into your diet: Improved Digestion: Fiber adds bulk to your stool and helps prevent constipation by promoting regular bowel movements. It also aids in maintaining a healthy digestive system. Weight Management: …
The term “organic” has turned into a trendy buzzword, losing some of its meaning and often causing a sense of overwhelm due to its prevalence in stores. When shopping for produce, “organic” in some instances means being free of pesticide residue. While such residues can be harmful if consumed frequently, for budget-conscious shoppers, “organic” also …
The evolving landscape of food production has brought about significant changes aimed at enhancing harvest yields and safety. However, the long-term consequences of consuming pesticides, antibiotics, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), and hormone-modified foods have raised concerns that demand careful consideration. Pesticides: The residue of pesticides, designed to protect crops, can enter the food chain, …
According to the USDA, the term “organic” refers to agricultural products produced using methods that prioritize environmental sustainability and avoid the use of synthetic fertilizers, pesticides, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), antibiotics, and growth hormones. The focus is on promoting natural processes and maintaining ecological balance rather than the nutritional value. At this point, there’s no …