Whole Grains Month

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Created by the Whole Grains Council in 2007

Whole Grains Month: Celebrating the Mighty Grains! 🌾🌱

September marks Whole Grains Month, a celebration of the humble yet mighty grain.
This month-long event is all about promoting the benefits of whole grains and increasing awareness of the variety of whole grain options available.
These tiny kernels of goodness have been the backbone of our food system for centuries, providing sustenance to people around the world.
But why celebrate them now? Are they really that special? Yes, they are!
Despite their small size, grains pack a nutritional punch. They’re a great source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals, and they’ve been linked to a reduced risk of heart disease, diabetes, and some types of cancer. Plus, they’re versatile and delicious, serving as the foundation for many of our favorite dishes, from bread and pasta to beer and whiskey.
Whole Grains Month is an excellent opportunity to learn more about the history of grains and their significance in our daily lives. It’s fascinating to think about how the cultivation and consumption of grains have changed over the years, and it’s essential to understand their role in our diets today.

Grains: The Mighty Seeds of Life 🌽🌾

Grains are a group of small, hard, dry seeds that belong to the grass family, and have been a staple food for humans for thousands of years. The history of grains dates back to the dawn of civilization when humans first discovered how to cultivate them. The word “grain” comes from the Latin word “granum,” which means “seed.”
Grains are rich in nutrients like protein, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, making them an essential part of a healthy diet.
Some of the most popular types of grains include rice, wheat, corn, oats, and barley. Rice is the most widely consumed grain in the world, while wheat is the most common grain used for bread-making. Oats are often used in breakfast cereals and baked goods, while corn is used in a variety of ways, including as a source of animal feed and as an ingredient in processed foods. Barley is often used in soups, stews, and beer-making.
From ancient civilizations like the Egyptians and Greeks to modern-day farmers, grains have been a staple food source for millennia. In fact, many of the grains we eat today have been cultivated for thousands of years, with some varieties dating back to prehistoric times.
But despite their importance, grains often don’t get the recognition they deserve.

Get the Whole Scoop on Whole Grains 🌾💪

Are you tired of feeling sluggish and unproductive after meals?
Maybe it’s time to swap out refined carbs for their whole grain counterparts!
Whole grains are a type of grain that contains all three parts of the grain kernel: the bran, germ, and endosperm.
White flour comes from refined grains that have their outer layer, the bran, removed. Bran however is the part of grain where all the fibers are. This means that whole grains retain more nutrients, fiber, and protein than refined grains.
Whole grains can help reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity. Plus, their slow digestion can help keep you full and satisfied for longer.
So, next time you’re looking for a carb fix, don’t settle for the processed stuff. Go for the whole grains and reap the benefits!

The Origin of Whole Grains Month 🌾🎉

The month of September is not just the beginning of autumn; it’s also the perfect time to celebrate Whole Grains Month!
Whole Grains Month is an annual event created by the Whole Grains Council in 2007, which takes place in September. The origin of this holiday stems from the council’s mission to increase awareness and consumption of whole grains.
The Whole Grains Council wanted to use this month to educate people on the benefits of incorporating more whole grains into their diets and to celebrate the harvest season. With its growth in popularity, Whole Grains Month has become a well-known event for promoting the use of whole grains in daily life.
September was chosen because it marks the start of the fall harvest season, a time when grains are at their freshest and most abundant.

Let’s Get Grainy: How to Celebrate Whole Grains Month 🌾🍴

Celebrating Whole Grains Month is a piece of cake, or rather, a slice of whole-grain bread!. Here are some tips on how to celebrate the month in style:

• Bake up a storm: Dust off your apron and get creative with your baking skills. From hearty bread to fluffy muffins, the possibilities are endless when it comes to using whole grains.
• Go on a whole grain adventure: Take a trip to your local health food store and try a new type of grain you’ve never tasted before. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite food!
• Take a shot of wheatgrass juice before breakfast every day of the month. (If you can stomach it, that is.)
• Host a dinner party: Invite friends over for a grain-filled feast. Get creative with ancient grains like farro, quinoa, and amaranth to impress your guests with your culinary prowess.
• Host a whole-grain potluck party and invite all your grain-loving friends. Make sure to show off your whole-grain culinary skills!
• Get your family involved: Make whole grains a family affair by involving everyone in the celebration. Have your kids help with baking or teach them about the nutritional benefits of whole grains.
• Share your love for grains on social media: Use the hashtag #WholeGrainsMonth and  #GrainiacsUnite to spread the word and connect with like-minded grain enthusiasts. Don’t forget to tag your friends and family so they can join in on the fun!

Remember, grains are not just for humans! This Whole Grains Month, you can also celebrate by taking care of your animal friends. For some animals adding whole grains to their diets can provide them with essential nutrients, and you can even make some homemade treats for them.
Extra bonus: if you don’t like wheatgrass, then your herbivore animal companions will gladly help you finish that wheat stack!

Safety Tips: Grain Safety 101 🌾🌡️

As with any food-related event, it’s important to keep safety in mind when celebrating Whole Grains Month.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Make sure to properly store and prepare grains to prevent foodborne illnesses
• If you have any allergies or intolerances, be sure to check ingredient labels carefully
• Don’t overdo it, too much fiber can lead to some embarrassing digestive issues
• Remember to balance your whole grain intake with other healthy foods to maintain a well-rounded diet
• Stay hydrated: Eating whole grains can be dehydrating, so be sure to drink plenty of water to avoid any unpleasant side effects like headaches or dizziness.
• Keep your pets safe: Don’t let animals eat human food and check if grain fits into their diet before you make treats for your animal companions.

In Conclusion 🌾🍞

Whole Grains Month is an exciting opportunity to celebrate the mighty grains and appreciate their role in our daily lives. Whether you’re a die-hard grain enthusiast or simply curious about the world of whole grains, there’s no better time to dive in and discover the amazing world of these tiny but mighty seeds.
So, go ahead and indulge in your favorite carb loads and sandwich some muffins.
And if anyone asks you why you’re making a 10 foot sub with overflowing toppings, just tell them Wild Calendar gave you permission to do so!
Happy Whole Grains Month!

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#September #WholeGrainsMonth

• https://wholegrainscouncil.org/get-involved/celebrate-whole-grains-month-september