Whole grains have been around for centuries, and were an important part of the early human diet. They are an excellent source of nutrients and minerals, including iron, selenium, zinc, vitamin E, and B-complex vitamins.
Whole grains are also high in fiber, which is supportive for both digestion, keeping your bowels flowing smoothly, and blood sugar regulation, providing you with high-quality sustainable energy throughout the day.
While whole grains are an excellent pantry staple for some, they’re not for everyone. Some people find them difficult to digest and have found a paleo-inspired (grain-free) diet more ideal.
Here’s a peek inside my well-stocked grain bin, always available for whenever the fridge is empty or my family craves a hearty meal:
- Brown Rice
- Wild Rice
- Quinoa
- Millet
- Polenta
- Gluten-Free Oats
Wondering why whole wheat didn’t make the list? Modern day wheat is very different from the wheat cultivated 100 years ago. Today’s methods of cultivation have resulted in an overly-processed wheat product that is devoid of nutrients, full of chemicals, and often rancid (which is why so many people find themselves intolerant or allergic to it).
Today’s wheat also contains a lot more gluten than it did 10 years ago, which is difficult and often problematic for digestion.
While many people struggle with gluten-containing grains, look to your own body as your guide. To find out whether wheat, rye, and barley are problematic for you, experiment going without them and pay attention to how you feel.
For a gluten-containing whole grain that hasn’t been overly processed, try Farro. You can learn more about farro, here.
Your Simple Action Plan:
Experiment in your kitchen with gluten-free whole grains and notice whether they leave you feeling energized or bloated. If you’re able to eat whole grains, stock your pantry this week with 1-3 every-day basics.
Here are a couple of recipes to get you started:
Strawberry Rhubarb Crisp
Everyday basics are the foods I always have on hand, not the fresh foods I pick up every week. With well-stocked kitchen basics, you should be able to survive an empty fridge for one to two days or more! And, shopping becomes a breeze!
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