The Benefits of Wheat Berries

By Scott Davis

Living in our modern cities we have forgotten what farming is. We don't remember what it was like to till and plant and grow crops. And especially what it was to eat simple, wholesome good foods.

But there has been a resurgence reminding us of the importance of whole foods. Reminding us of simpler times when people didn't eat overly processed foods. This whole foods revival has reminded us that things like whole wheat berries, the fancy name for whole wheat kernels, contain a more complete set of nutrients.

Getting Back to Healthy Ways

One of the great things about wheat berries is that they can be used to make your own whole wheat flour. When whole wheat flour sits for a while, it looses a lot of its nutritional value. Refined flour is even worse, as most of the nutritious parts are removed during the refining process. To get the most healthy whole wheat flour it's best to mill wheat berries and make flour as it is needed. This ensures the flour stays loaded with fiber, iron and vitamins.

All You Need Is Imagination

While it may be strange to start cooking with whole grains initially, with a little creativity you'll be on your way. There are tons of whole foods recipes to choose from. Just pick something that suits your fancy and that your family can enjoy. Getting children who are accustomed to processed foods eating whole foods may be difficult as your getting started. But starting children eating whole foods at a young age will get them into good habits while they are still young.

Using More Whole Wheat

Can you use wheat berries for every meal? Yes, of course, your ingenuity is the only limit. Breakfast served with cooked wheat berries and mixed with yogurt and fruits can combine for a delicious meal that is at the same time filling and healthy. A quick lunch can consist of a whole wheat bread sandwich and a cranberry juice, while dinner should include some whole wheat pasta. Dieticians recommend between 25 and 35g of fiber a day, so get your recipes out of the closet and start figuring out the gram amounts for each meal. Be careful however not to jump suddenly from little fiber to a lot of fiber, as the increase may cause stomach pains and painful gases. Do it gradually.

Let's Visit The Pyramid

They US Food Pyramid recommends between 6 and 11 servings of whole grains a day. This can include wheat berries and other cereals, breads and pastas. On serving is 1 slice of bread or a half-cup of cereal or pasta. So it is pretty easy to gradually add whole grains to your diet, one serving at a time. - 17274

About the Author:

A Wheat berry are loaded with nutrients. Learn more about wheat berry nutrition here.