GRAINS ON THE GO

Grains play an essential role in a balanced diet.  They provide energy for our bodies as well as fiber and essential vitamins and minerals.  The USDA recommends consuming half your gains as whole grains.  Whole grains and products made with whole grains, consist of the entire grain in its natural state. While refined grains are modified grains that are not in their whole, natural form.  Some popular whole grains include:

• 100% Whole wheat bread
• 100% Whole wheat crackers
• Popcorn
• Oatmeal
• Barley
• Brown rice
• Whole grain pasta

The USDA recommends consuming 6 ounces of grain daily (3 of which should be whole grain).  Whole grains can make an excellent on-the-go snack option. They are quick, non-perishable and loaded with fiber to keep you full longer, and prevent constipation.  Consider some of these whole grain options for a quick snack today!

1) Popcorn - Popcorn sometimes gets a bad rap.  Without all the loaded butter and salt, popcorn is a great low-calorie whole-grain snack option. Try topping with your favorite seasonings for added flavor! CLICK HERE for recipe!

2) Banana Oat Smoothie - Smoothies are always a hit! Have you ever tried added oats to the combo? Oats are a whole grain, they add fiber and nutrients to your smoothie with little to no taste addition.  RECIPE BELOW 

3) Oatmeal energy bites - These are a family favorite.  They take less that 5 min to make and can be stored in the fridge for quick on-the-go breakfast and snack option. CLICK HERE for recipe!

4) Whole grain toast - Toast is a quick easy option that sometimes gets overlooked as only a breakfast option. Whole grain toast makes an easy/quick snack. With unlimited topping potential, this whole grain snack is limitless! CLICK HERE for recipe!

5) Granola - On its own, or atop yogurt or ice cream, granola tops the charts for whole grain snacking! CLICK HERE for recipe!

 WHOLE GRAINS ARE BENEFICIAL AND IMPORTANT IN ANY BALANCED DIET!  MAKE YOUR SNACKING MINDFUL,  AND GET YOUR 6-A-DAY TODAY!!!

BANANA OAT SMOOTHIE

Ingredients:

1 Banana

1 handful Spinach

2 Handfuls frozen blueberries

1/2 cup Almond milk (or other low-fat milk)

3 TBL Oats

1 TBL chia seed (optional)

Directions:

Peel the banana then pour everything into a blender.  Pulse until well blended and smooth, enjoy!

FOR MORE INFORMATION OF WHOLE GRAINS VISIT:

https://www.choosemyplate.gov/10-tips-make-half-your-grains-whole-grains-0