Ancient grains have been getting more interest lately, and for good reason! These nutrient-dense grains have been cultivated for thousands of years and offer a variety of health benefits.
Unlike modern grains, which are processed and refined, ancient grains generally remain unchanged and retain more of their natural nutrients that are good for your health.
Here are the top ten reasons to find a great ancient grains supplier and incorporate ancient grains into your diet!
1. Nutrient density
Ancient grains are definitely packed with some of the essential nutrients you need. They perform very well as a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
For example, quinoa is rich in magnesium, iron, and vitamin B6, while farro provides healthy doses of zinc, niacin, and iron. These nutrients play a very important role in maintaining your overall health, from supporting immune function to promoting healthy skin and energy levels.
2. High fiber content
One of the most important characteristics of ancient grains is their extremely high fiber content. Certain grains, such as barley, bulgur and spelt, are rich in dietary fiber, which is essential for digestive health.
Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevent constipation, and maintain a healthy gut microbiome. In addition, a high-fiber diet may reduce the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers.
3. Rich in protein
Many ancient grains are also excellent sources of plant-based protein, which is crucial if you are vegan or vegetarian. For example, quinoa is a complete protein, meaning it contains all nine essential amino acids that the body cannot produce on its own. By incorporating these grains into your diet, you can help build and repair tissue, produce enzymes, and support overall muscle health.
4. Gluten-free options
For people with celiac disease or gluten allergies, ancient grains like quinoa, amaranth, and millet are great gluten-free alternatives to wheat and other gluten-containing grains.
These grains offer similar nutritional benefits without causing adverse reactions, making them a safe and nutritious choice for people who need to avoid gluten.
5. Antioxidant properties
Ancient grains are packed with antioxidants! This can help fight oxidative stress and protect the body from chronic disease. Grains like teff and sorghum contain compounds like phenolic acids and flavonoids, which have been shown to greatly reduce inflammation and reduce the risk of chronic diseases like heart disease and cancer.
Including these grains in your diet can help improve long-term health.
6. Permaculture
Ancient grains are often grown using traditional farming methods, which are more sustainable and environmentally friendly than modern farming practices.
These grains typically require fewer inputs, such as water and synthetic fertilizers, making them a more environmentally friendly option. By incorporating ancient grains into your diet, you support agrobiodiversity and promote sustainable food systems.
7. Cooking Versatility
On top of that, another benefit of ancient grains is their versatility in the kitchen. They can be used in a variety of dishes, from salads and soups to main courses and desserts. This versatility makes it easy to incorporate these grains into your diet in delicious and creative ways.
8. Low glycemic index
Many ancient grains have a low glycemic index (GI), which means they affect blood sugar levels more slowly. These are especially beneficial for people with diabetes or those looking to control blood sugar levels, as they can help prevent blood sugar spikes and crashes, allowing for sustained energy levels throughout the day.
If you’re looking for some low-glycemic index ancient grains to incorporate into your diet, barley and quinoa are two great examples.
9. Heart health
Including ancient grains in your diet can have extremely positive effects on heart health. The high fiber content in grains like barley and oats helps lower cholesterol levels (a key factor in reducing the risk of heart disease).
Antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds found in ancient grains also help improve cardiovascular health. Regular consumption of these grains helps maintain heart health and reduces the risk of heart-related diseases.
10. Weight management
Ancient grains can be a very valuable supplement for those following a weight management plan. Their high fiber and protein content keeps you feeling full, helps control appetite and reduces overall calorie intake.
Unlike refined grains, which can cause rapid spikes and drops in blood sugar, ancient grains provide sustained energy and help prevent overeating. Adding these grains to your meals can support healthy weight loss or weight maintenance.
Incorporating ancient grains into your diet can provide numerous health benefits, from improved nutrient intake and digestive health to improved heart health and permaculture practices. These grains are versatile and delicious, making them easy to incorporate into your daily diet.
Whether you want to control high blood pressure, support weight management, or simply enjoy a more varied, nutritious diet, ancient grains are a great choice!
