Why protein- rich grains are the best option

What you may not know about the grains in popular ‘healthy’ breakfast cereals

Most cereals available in todays market will boast health claims such as ‘high in fibre’ and ‘low in fat’ to appeal as a healthy and nutritious start to the day. However the most common grains used in these cereals are Corn, Oats, Wheat and white Rice and whilst being high in carbohydrate and fibre, are low in mineral & vitamin density and are highly processed. In addition, the digestible fibre content from these grains (responsible for the removal of certain fats & chemicals from our body) requires a hormonal response (the release of insulin), which increases the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. It’s not an ideal way to obtain digestible fibre when fruits & vegetables, nuts and seeds offer the same fibre benefits and many more!
The other thing to be aware of is the gluten content of cereals. With 80% of the Australian population said to have gluten sensitivity, some of these grains can cause bloating, indigestion and fatigue - still sound like a healthy start to the day?

Why protein- rich grains are the best option!
For a truly energizing and satisfying breakfast, we need more than just carbohydrates but also protein and good fats. Our bodies need these 3 components to perform at its peak! It’s important to remember that carbohydrates aren’t a great energy source – fat & protein are better as they’re slow burning (you’ll feel fuller and be energized for longer) and neither require a hormonal response to activate energy. Given that protein is also used for every single biological function, you can’t go wrong opting for grains that are richer in protein like Quinoa, Amaranth, Millet and brown Rice. Whilst giving you the same calories per gram as the more common grains used in the market, these grains are much friendlier on our system and are gluten free!

How to get the most nutrition from your grains
In order to get the most nutritional benefit from these protein-rich grains, choose the ‘rolled’ variety. Another option is puffed grains however due to the heat used in the puffing process, some nutritional value will be lost. Toasted grains should be avoided at all costs as these are high in fatty acids (- not the good fat!).

Treat yourself at Breakfast!
Breakfast shouldn’t be boring or bland - the most important meal of the day should tantalise all your senses! Give your body the fuel it needs while satisfying your taste buds with this recipe:

A Forage Breakfast
40g Forage Cereal (contains puffed Quinoa, Amaranth, Millet, Buckwheat, brown Rice, Sunflower seeds, Almonds, Pepitas and dried Cranberries)
Splash of rice milk or nut milk
Yoghurt
Fresh Berries

Article supplied by health & wellness expert, Dr Damian Kristof