Thursday, March 31, 2011

Buckwheat benefits

Buckwheat is a fruit even though it is commonly thought to be a grain. Buckwheat is a fruit seed that is related to rhubarb and sorrel.
Whole buckwheat is a very nutritious food. The protein in buckwheat contains the eight essential amino acids and many B vitamins as well as phosphorus, magnesium, iron, zinc, copper and manganese. It is a good source of alpha-linolenic acid, which is one of the two essential fatty acids we must have to be healthy. Buckwheat is also very high in fiber, a cup of cooked buckwheat groats contains over 4 grams of dietary fiber. Buckwheat is a rich supply of flavonoids and lowers glucose levels. It is beneficial for managing diabetes and has been found to lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol. Buckwheat is a fruit seed and is a gluten-free alternative to grains.
Buckwheat can be enjoyed as a breakfast cereal boiled with milk and sugar, as a side dish, or a main course when cooked with vegetables.
One of the easiest and most delicious ways to enjoy this awesome food is to boil a package of buckwheat with vegetables CafĂ© in 500ml of salted water for about 10-15 min, and it’s ready to serve. As simple as that!
Make sure to include enough whole grains in you daily diet to maintain healthy mind and body!

Wheat

Wheat is one of the oldest and most important food crops known to humankind. It is grown on more land area worldwide than any other crop and it’s well adapted to harsh environment. It is believed that wild relatives of wheat first grew in the Middle East about 11,000 years ago and played an important role in development of civilization the way we know it.
Wheat grain has exceptional nutritional value. It is high in protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. Including a serving of grains in a daily diet improves overall health, decreases cholesterol, lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes and even cancer.
Grains are not only packed with natural goodness but are also very delicious. Here is one of my favorite breakfast recipes featuring Wheaten Groats.

1 cup water
Salt
Sugar
1 cup milk

Bring water to a boil.
Add a hint of salt and the wheaten groats reducing heat to low.
Simmer until the water is absorbed.
Add the milk and sugar by your taste and let boil for another 10 min stirring frequently.
When the porridge is ready pour it into bowls and top with a splash of cold milk.
You can enjoy it plain, with butter, fresh fruit, or fruit preserves.
I like it with sour cherry preserve. Enjoy!