Grains

Grains

Breads, cereals, rice, pasta, bread-sticks, pizza crust, crackers, pretzels, popcorn, pancakes, and bagels are only a few of the foods made from grains. They're great for us because they're naturally low in fat and high in energy giving complex carbohydrates. Plus, grains provide B vitamins, vitamin E, iron, zinc, calcium, magnesium, and copper. Whole grains, such as whole wheat bread, bran flakes, and brown rice, also supply valuable fiber.

With all that grains have going for them, it's no wonder the Food Guide Pyramid recommends we get six to 11 daily servings of them. Yet Americans average only four to five daily servings, at best a full serving short of even the minimum number recommended.