Watch out for Fad Diets, Registered Dietitian Explains The Role of Grains in a Diet
In an article for the Great Falls Tribune, award-winning registered dietitian Daryle Hayes discusses why it is important to watch out for fad diets as well as tips to help you meet MyPlate dietary recommendations. Fat-free, carb-free, gluten-free – what do you do? Hayes explains why its key to eat all food groups in a well-rounded diet!
And why are grains important?
- 9 out of 10 American’s don’t get enough dietary fiber! Fiber is one of the most important nutrients found in whole grains (including pasta).
- Why is fiber important? Fiber keeps the digestive tract running smoothly. Hayes notes that it can also help reduce cholesterol, normalize blood sugar levels and aid in weight management because high fiber foods help increase satisfaction.
- Gluten-free is one of the biggest fad diets right now. Gluten-free diets and foods are only necessary and helpful when people have celiac disease and gluten-intolerance. There is no proof that they can help with weight loss or other medical conditions.
Looking for some tips on how to follow a healthy MyPlate friendly diet? We’ve summarized some tips from Hayes on how to incorporate grains into your diet:
- Eat Grains Regularly – Carbohydrates are the body’s main source of fuel for moving, breathing, thinking and learning. Enjoy some carbs, like whole grains, at every meal and snacks.
- Choose Grains Carefully – Check out nutrition facts panels for grains with a high daily value of fiber.
- Pick Grains Tastefully – Be adventurous! Include grains in your side dishes and baked goods.
- Eat grains mindfully – Watch your portion sizes (of grains and all foods) by eating slowly and enjoying your meal!
You can read the full article by Dayle Hayes, MS,RD here. If you have more questions about how pasta can fit into a healthy diet, check out our Pasta Nutrition page.