Is Whole Wheat Really Healthy?
In recent years there has been a growing awareness that white wheat products, such as rice, are not the best foods to eat. Even recent research suggests that we should choose whole grains (whole wheat) alone, not white wheat, because it has more nutritional value and more fiber.
Even so, several other studies reveal that whole grains are not always the best choice. Why so?
For some people, whole grains can trigger indigestion
Evolutionary biologist from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA), Jared Diamond says that aka whole wheat whole wheat not always good for everyone’s health. If too much consumption of white grains such as white rice and wheat flour encourage excess insulin production, fat accumulation, and heart disease, this is different from whole grains.
Because this type of wheat allows inflammation, immune disorders, and digestive system disorders in people who are allergic to gluten or have Celiac disease. All because of a compound called gluten.
What is gluten?
Gluten is a protein found in wheat and wheat products. Gluten can cause inflammation if you have a condition called Celiac disease. In some of these people, gluten can cause absorption disorders, resulting in vitamin and mineral deficiencies.
Gluten is also known to cause increased fatigue, joint pain, depression, migraines, chronic fatigue, learning problems, in some people who are sensitive to this particular substance.
Perhaps you have wondered why you have been eating whole grain products for a long time, but suddenly have a problem now? Well, it could be that you are consuming more gluten. What is not generally known is that much of the wheat is genetically modified to contain more gluten each harvest season.
So, don’t be tempted and immediately trust the gluten-free or label gluten-free on products sold in the market. Especially now that there are many fast foods that are claimed to be gluten-free, such as cakes gluten-free and bread gluten-free.
Then, is white rice really bad for health?
Life in Asia seems inseparable from rice at mealtimes. All rice in its natural form is basically gluten free. This includes all varieties such as white rice, brown rice, and wild rice aka wild rice. Even gluten-free rice is gluten-free, although the name doesn’t seem to reflect the same thing.
However, rice has low nutritional value, especially white rice, because it almost loses all minerals and fiber in the refining process. This means that the available energy is digested and released into the bloodstream quickly. If there is no demand for energy or lack of energy, rice will be converted into fat and stored in the body.
White rice is not the healthiest choice, but if you have Celiac disease or are sensitive to gluten, rice can be an option. Of course if there is an option to eat brown rice, always make sure to go for brown rice, not white rice. Quinoa and sweet potatoes are some of the wheat alternatives and healthier carbohydrate options.
Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
