As you grab a loaf of bread at the grocery store, you go for the bag that has the whole-grain label on it because you know that whole grain is widely publicized for being a healthy choice. But do you actually know why whole grain is healthy and what it can do for your body?

First, let us start out by really understanding what whole grains are, as compared to just regular grain. Grain is considered whole grain when germ, bran and endosperm are present. Bran and germ are the most nutritious parts of grain because they contain the important nutrients your body needs.

So what exactly are these nutrients that whole grain is so famous for? Fruits and vegetables are widely known for being a great source for antioxidants but whole grain contains even more. Whole grain is also an easy way to receive Vitamins B and E, magnesium, iron and fiber.

Reducing your risk for heart disease is most likely the greatest contribution whole grain can give your body. This is because whole grain is proven to reduce your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood coagulation. Eating whole grains can also regularly help you lose weight.

There are many easy ways to increase your daily whole grain intake. In the morning, switch your regular breakfast with a bowl of whole grain cereal. At lunch, replace your normal sandwich bread with bread made with whole grains.  For dinner, try brown rice instead of your normal side dish. Popcorn is also a good source of whole grain, in the place of chips and other snacks.
When looking for whole grain products at the grocery, be careful! Many labels containing words such as multi-grain, 100% wheat and seven-grain most likely are not whole grain products. Look for the word “whole” in the ingredients list on the back or for a yellow whole grain stamp. If the whole grain stamp says the product is a good source of whole grain, then it contains half a serving of whole grain. But if the stamp says it is an excellent source, the item contains a full serving of whole grain.