Wednesday, May 2, 2007

Grain Anatomy

Here's what the inside of a grain looks like, and a brief overview of what the parts are.

When a grain is whole, it contains the endosperm, the germ, and the bran.

The endosperm, also called the kernel, makes up the majority of the seed. It has contains most of the grain's protein and has very little vitamins and minerals.

The germ is where a new plant sprouts, it is a concentrated source of niacin, vitamin E, phosphorus, magnesium, thiamin, riboflavin, iron and zinc. The germ also contains some fat and protein.

The bran is what forms the outer layer of the seed, it is a rich source of niacin, phosphorus, magnesium, thiamin, riboflavin, iron and zinc. The bran contains almost all of the grain's fiber.

It's important that all of these parts are left intact because it gives your body the vitamins, fiber, protein, etc. that you need. When the bran and germ are removed to make refined grains, all those nutrients that are within the bran and germ are taken as well.

I hope this information was helpful. Thanks for reading, and God bless you!

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