As the days get longer and we inch closer to bathing-suit season, health often takes a back seat to fad diets.

Lona Sandon, assistant professor of clinical nutrition at UT Southwestern Medical Center, says it’s important to keep whole grains in your diet.

“Research shows that whole grains are good for your heart, lower the risk for diabetes and stroke, and may help prevent certain cancers,” she says. “They also help in managing weight.”

Ms. Sandon says whole grains are not only full of fiber, but also good-for-you nutrients like folate and niacin, B vitamins and magnesium. “The phytochemicals found in whole grains have been shown to have health-promoting and disease-preventing benefits,” she adds.

Ms. Sandon recommends that adults aim for three servings, or 48 grams, of whole grains a day. Be sure to look for the words “made with whole grain” or “100 percent whole grain” on packages.

Other going-with-the-grain tips include:

• Eat whole wheat breads instead of white rolls and breads;
• Use whole wheat bread crumbs for stuffing; and
• Serve whole wheat crackers with hors d’oeuvres.

Visit http://www.utsouthwestern.org/nutrition to learn more about UT Southwestern’s clinical services in nutrition.

March is National Nutrition Month.

Media Contact: Kristen Holland Shear

Return to March 2009 News Tips