The Cereal Grain
The grain has been grown for centuries in all corners of the planet and have always been the staple food of different peoples and cultures. Grains are the seeds of grass plants: wheat, oats, barley, rye, rice, maize, millet etc. All who are called bark comprehensive, richer in minerals, vitamins and fiber crops.
The cereal grain structure consists of a starchy interior, covered by layers rich in protein, and its outer (bran) is composed of a very fibrous tissue. At one end lies the germ, rich in protein, iron and B vitamins and vitamin E. When meals are prepared, both the germ and bran are removed.
Today we can say that cereals are the food that allows many people to survive against the chronic hunger that are subject to certain countries.
What nutrients contributed by cereal?
* Carbohydrates: always situated to cereals as a source of complex carbohydrates, always forgetting their proper protein intake.
They contain about 75% starch, a polysaccharide composed of glucose. The absorption of starch is slow and gradual, so that grain supply energy to the body over a long period of time.
* Protein: cereals contain between 8% to 12% protein. Gluten is the protein found in most cereals. Gluten can not be digested by some people, celiacs, because they cause a serious intestinal damage. Also in newborns due to the immaturity of their bowel, should eat up to 9 months gluten-free cereals.
* Fats: whole cereal grains contain approximately 2% fat, but oatmeal for example contains 7%. The fat of the grain is composed of poly-and monounsaturated fatty acids.
These fatty acids are very beneficial to keep in good condition your cardiovascular system.
* Vitamins: B complex vitamins such as vitamin B1, vitamin B2 and vitamin B12 together with folic acid, are most abundant in cereals. They are essential for the proper development and functioning of the nervous system. Meanwhile, vitamin E is found in high doses in the germ of cereal grains. When cereals are subjected to the process of refining the loss of these vitamins is notorious.
* Minerals: cereals provide us mainly phosphorus, zinc, silicon and iron. The calcium and sodium intake is very low.
* Fiber: fiber cereals is mainly cellulose, found in the outer layer of grains. It is worth clarifying that the grains are those who contribute the most fiber, when refined since lost most of it.