15 Health Benefits of Whole Foods

Why are whole foods good for health? Whole foods are richer in fiber, vitamins and minerals and antioxidants that are important for health. The more processed and refined the food, the less benefit it is. There is no restriction on any whole-grain product, because in the old days everything was whole-grain: refined foods came with modernity, unfortunately.

Whole Foods are Complete:  Whole grains and cereals retain their original components and, in each part, different nutrients are concentrated.

Bran :  Protective film of the grain and outermost layer of the food. This is where you find a lot of fiber. It is possible to find bran isolated from many foods in the market. Among the most benefits is oat bran , famous for lowering cholesterol levels and helping to eliminate fats from the body.

Endosperm :  The middle part of the grain works as an energy store for the plant and, therefore, is very rich in carbohydrates. Refined foods are composed only of endosperm.

Germ:  It is the most internal and nutritious part of the grain, containing vitamins, minerals and carbohydrates.

Benefits of Whole Foods for the Body:  The biggest advantage in replacing refined foods with whole foods is the increase in fiber consumption. They are mainly present in the bran, a film that protects the whole grain. These substances are necessary for the regular functioning of the intestine, as they give volume and fight constipation , as well as, during digestion, they control the absorption of fats and sugars.

Whole Foods Are Rich in Nutrients: Whole  foods retain several beneficial substances present in each part of the grain (bran, endosperm and germ). Check out the main nutrients and their functions!

Vitamins of the B Complex: “The B complex acts in the metabolism of macro-nutrients, performing functions in the nervous and immune system, participates in the formation of antibodies and protects the mucous membranes”.

Vitamin E :  Present mainly in the germ of grains. “It’s antioxidant, fights free radicals that damage cells.” The nutrient wards off the risk of heart disease andpremature aging.

Carbohydrates :  These are mainly the complex types. Simple carbohydrates, like those in candy, are digested quickly, raising blood sugar. The complexes are released slowly, avoiding blood glucose spikes. Nutrients provide energy for the body to carry out daily activities.

Minerals : Whole grains are rich inPotassium,Copper,Selenium,Calcium,Iron,Magnesium,ZincandPhosphorus, which participate in various metabolic processes and regulate body functions, participating in the formation of bones and teeth, the immune system and the absorption of other nutrients.

Benefits of Whole Foods for Digestion:  Another advantage of fiber is that it aids in digestion. A rich menu of this substance makes you chew better, facilitating digestion. In addition, there is a greater use of the nutrients present in these foods.

Benefits of Whole Foods Through Juices:  Some tips are important to preserve the fibers of juices. After blending the fruit in a blender, do not sift or strain the drink. It is also important to remember that the juice should be consumed immediately after being shaken.

Be alert!

Excess fiber can interfere with the absorption of other nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals. Therefore, the ideal is the intake of 25g to 35g of fiber per day.