Pasta, Rice, and Bread, Oh My!

Grains get both a good and a bad reputation, depending on who you ask. Fad diets may convince you to avoid pasta, bread, and rice because too many carbohydrates can be stored as fat. Dietitians may encourage you to eat more grains because carbohydrates are your primary energy stores. What's most important is to not only eat grains in moderation, but also to eat good, whole, unprocessed grains. Here are some healthier substitutions you can make for the grains in your diet.



1. Brown Rice Instead of White Rice

Brown rice is a healthier option than white rice because it actually contains whole grains. White rice on the other hand has been processed and refined, which ultimately takes the good nutrients out of it.

2. Or Even Better... Quinoa Instead of Rice

Quinoa is a great substitute for rice, whether it's in tacos, burritos, or grain bowls. Not only does it contain fewer calories, it contains less than 10% of the carbohydrates that white rice does. In addition, it has much more protein and fiber, ultimately making it the smarter choice.

3. Whole Grain Bread Instead of White Bread

Similar to rice, white bread is the stripped down version of whole grain bread. It has been processed and packed with additives like food coloring and sugar. But it's important when picking out whole grain bread to make sure that it truly says "whole grain." Producers will sometimes try and trick consumers by labeling their bread as "multi-grain" which isn't the same thing as whole grain and may still mean that it has been processed.

Comments