What is the difference between whole grains and refined grains?
Understand the Problem
The question is asking about the distinctions between whole grains and refined grains, specifically their differences in terms of nutritional content, processing, and health benefits.
Answer
Whole grains contain the entire grain kernel; refined grains have had the bran and germ removed.
Whole grains contain the entire grain kernel, which includes the bran, germ, and endosperm. Refined grains have been milled to remove the bran and germ.
Answer for screen readers
Whole grains contain the entire grain kernel, which includes the bran, germ, and endosperm. Refined grains have been milled to remove the bran and germ.
More Information
Whole grains retain all the essential parts and naturally-occurring nutrients of the entire grain seed, promoting better health benefits compared to refined grains, which lose many important nutrients during processing.
Tips
A common mistake is assuming refined grains are nutritionally equivalent to whole grains because they are often enriched with vitamins; however, they lack fiber and some key nutrients naturally found in whole grains.
Sources
- Whole grains, refined grains, and dietary fiber - heart.org
- USDA MyPlate Grains Group – One of the Five Food Groups - myplate.gov
- Whole Grains vs. Refined Grains: Which is Better for Health? - health.com
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