Benefits of Ancient Grains

By Puja Kapoor, MS, RD, LD

We hear a lot these days about whole wheat and whole grains; now we’re also hearing about ancient
grains. Ancient grains are a group of grains that have remained closest to the original form over time.
This means they’ll have more fiber and protein compared to the refined grains because they’re less
processed. The benefits of additional fiber and protein are vast, but to name a few, they aid in the
regulation of blood glucose levels and lead to increased satiety, which is a factor in healthy weight
management.st! Including them in your diet will allow you to try a variety of
spices, flavors, and cooking methods.

These grains also work great for batch cooking and can be modified to fit into a variety of meals. Pair
them with a side of fruits, vegetables, and protein, and you’re on your way to creating a balanced
meal—you may even have enough for leftovers!
The following table gives more details about the nutrition profile of each ancient grain. While you’re
experimenting with these grains, remember to be conscious of your cooking method. If you’re
monitoring your sodium intake, try to use garlic, oregano, or pepper for flavor instead of salt.