Whole wheat bread is a great place to start

So yesterday, we talked about the launch of National Childhood Obesity Awareness Month. Did you know September is also Whole Grains Month? Me neither. But hey, why not mark the occasion by making it a point to include whole grains in your day?

Not only do whole grains add more interesting color, texture and taste to our plates, they’re also packed with nutrients like B-vitamins, micronutrients like iron and fiber. The vitamins and micronutrients help maintain proper cell function while the fiber fills us up and makes us feel more satisfied after eating, which is why whole grains are often recommended as part of a weight-loss plan.

Some whole grain products to try:

• Whole wheat bread
• Whole wheat pasta (pasta made from quinoa is great for people with gluten intolerance)
• Brown rice
• Oats

For some, the taste may take some getting used to, but the palate adapts pretty quickly. Not sure you’ll like brown rice? Try mixing it with a little white rice. Eat your whole grains in the context of a meal, so the flavors of the other foods your eating enhance the taste. Before long, you’ll find yourself preferring the richer taste and texture of whole grains.

What’s your favorite whole grain?