September is Whole Grains Month

A whole grain contains all of the parts and nutrients from the grain seed. Whole grains provide vitamins, nutrients, and minerals that are needed to keep you going and keep you full but they also provide dietary fiber which can reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

How do I find them? Finding whole grains can be tricky but here’s what to look at: the label! If a product is a ‘whole grain’ its first ingredient will be ‘whole wheat flour’ or another ‘whole grain flour’ or product. Something else that may be helpful when looking for whole grains is the “Whole Grain Stamp” from the Whole Grain Council. Any product with this stamp must have 100% whole grain. Look for whole grains in many different places including bread, cereals, bagels, tortillas, popcorn, and oatmeal. Or try experimenting with lesser known grains such as bulgur, buckwheat, barley or rye. Give whole grains a try, they are a simple change that can make a big difference when it comes to eating healthier.

Whole Grain Pizza Dough

2 cups whole grain flour

¼ cup margarine

1 tablespoon honey

1 ½ tablespoons baking powder

¼ cup water

Preheat oven to 400 degrees.

Mix all ingredients together, knead slightly while still in bowl.  Grease pizza pan; expand dough until desired size is reached.  Bake for 7 minutes then top and bake an additional 7 minutes. 

Recipe:

Quick and Easy Whole Grain Pizza Crust—http://recipes.sparkpeople.com/recipe-detail.asp?recipe=1154768

Information:

Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics—http://www.eatright.org

Whole Grain Council—http://www.wholegrainscouncil.org

Guest Blogger: Alyssa Gehle, USD Dietetic Intern