September is Whole Grains Month

I ran across an article recently reminding that September is Whole Grains Month.   Whole grains have not been refined, so they have the complete grain kernel and all of the nutrition packed germ and bran.  Whole grains often have a nuttier flavor and will help you stay fuller longer.  In addition, they promote colon health.  Have you tried bugler, quinoa, or millet?  Add some extra nutrition to your everyday meal by substituting a whole grain in your baked goods or look up a new recipe.  To get you started here is a whole grain pancake recipe.

Whole grains include corn, oats, and brown rice.  There are many crackers and cereals made with whole grains too.  Be sure to read the label and make sure the first grain ingredient is listed as "Whole".   Remember color is not always an indicator, especially when examining bread.  Bread label as "Wheat" or made with "whole grain" is not whole grain.  Be sure to check the ingredients list.

Whole Grain Pancake Recipe
Serves: 4 | Serving Size: 3 pancakes
Ingredients:

• 1 cup whole-wheat flour
• 1/3 cup rolled oats
• 1/3 cup all-purpose flour
• 2 teaspoons of baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
• 1 and 1/2 cups soy milk

Directions:

1. Mix the dry ingredients in a medium bowl. Add the soy milk and stir until the batter is smooth.
2. Lightly spray a large non-stick skillet with cooking oil and heat it over medium-high heat. Spoon the batter into the skillet to form 3-inch pancakes.
3. When the pancakes bubble, it’s time to turn them over. Cook the other side, then remove them from the pan. Repeat with remaining batter.
4. Serve hot.

Nutrition Information:

• Serves 4. Each serving contains 224 calories, 2 g fat, 0 g saturated fat, 0 g trans fat, 2 mg cholesterol, 42 mg sodium, 44 g carbohydrate, 5 g dietary fiber, 5 g sugar, and 10 g protein.
• Each serving also has 0% DV vitamin A, 0% DV vitamin C, 24% DV calcium, and 11% DV iron.