Whole grains consist of the outer layer of the grain, the inner part of the grain, or Endosperm or bran, and the sprout. The outer layer of a grain contains B vitamins, minerals, and fiber. The inner part of a grain, or Endosperm, contains carbohydrates and proteins. Nutrition experts classify fiber as either insoluble or soluble in water. Insoluble fiber is called roughage.
Researchers believe that roughage keeps the intestinal tract clean, lowering the risk of disease.
Making simple dietary changes to increase the fiber and nutritional content of your diet is easy when you replace refined, white flours with an endless menu of whole grain choices. Grain flavors can change their guise as quickly as a writer changes scripts for actors. Cook whole grains one way and they are as creamy and as smooth as Clark Gable. Cook them another way for hot and spicy Jack Nicolson flavors. To cook most grains, use two parts water to one part grain.