On average, Americans consume only 1 serving of whole grains daily. The recently released USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans 2000 encourage Americans to increase their intake of whole grain foods. When grains are milled, or refined, the bran and germ portions are removed, leaving only the endosperm. By contrast, whole grain foods contain all three layers of the grain. When you eat a variety of whole grain foods, you get the nutritional benefits of the entire grain.
Whole grains contain many other natural plant compounds called phytochemicals.
Scientists believe phytochemicals in whole grains, together with the vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, may contribute to whole grains health benefits. More Whole Grains Check out food labels to help you choose more whole grain foods each day. Look at both the Ingredient List and the Nutrition Facts panel and try to choose foods that list a whole grain as the first ingredient. Also look for a whole grain claim on other parts of the package labels. For qualifying foods, the government has approved a health claim that recognizes the health benefits associated with diets rich in whole grains.