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Whole Foods Diet Whole foods this term refers to the foods that have not been refined or processed which includes whole cereals, grains, pulses, beans, nuts, seeds, fruits and vegetables. The phytochemicals present in whole foods has a protective effect against various types of disease. Whole foods are also rich in different vitamins and minerals like thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, calcium, iron, magnesium, sodium and potassium which are some of the essential nutrients required for normal bodily functions. Besides the nutrients whole grains like brown rice, wheat kernel and germ has a goodness of fiber. Fiber has numerous functions in the body; it helps in proper digestions, assimilation and excretion of food. It also helps to lower the cholesterol, maintain normal blood pressure and normal blood glucose levels and thus is helpful in different conditions like obesity, diabetes and heart diseases. A modern westernized diet which is high in processed foods like potato chips, white breads, white flour and white sugar lacks the goodness of the phytochemicals, finer and other vital nutrients. It is a good idea to start a whole food diet as whole foods provide moderate calories most of which comes from complex carbohydrates and proteins. Calories from fat are vary minimal and they type of fat in whole cereals of definitely healthy.
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