For example, if you have a cup of oatmeal at breakfast, you've already eaten 2 servings. A sandwich at lunch adds another 2. And tack on 3 servings from a cup of pasta plus a whole-grain roll for dinner, for a grand total of 7 grain group servings. An eating pattern including plenty of grains, fruits, and vegetables, balanced with foods from the other food groups, is the foundation for a successful weight management plan. Although eating a carbohydrate-rich meal does raise blood glucose levels temporarily, there is no evidence that this leads to weight gain in healthy individuals.
Carbohydrates are the body's number one energy source.
Whether you enjoy morning walks or an evening workout at the gym, your muscles need the fuel supplied by carbohydrates. Foods from the grain group are also good sources of iron, B vitamins, and fiber. Easy tips for healthful pasta dishes To keep your pasta dishes low in fat, use soup broths or vegetable purees as a base for sauce. For extra flavor, add garlic, herbs, and low-fat cheese. Use a small amount of flavored oil to spice up a side dish of noodles.