Are ancient grains really the superfoods they're hyped up to be? The idea that ancient grains are inherently superior to modern ones has been gaining traction in recent years, with many health enthusiasts touting their benefits. But is there any substance to this claim? Let's delve into the fascinating world of grains and uncover the truth. Personally, I think the concept of 'ancient' grains is a bit of a misnomer. Grains have been cultivated and consumed for thousands of years, so it's more accurate to refer to them as 'traditional' or 'heritage' grains. But what makes them different from the grains we commonly find in our supermarkets? What makes this particularly fascinating is the nutritional profile of these grains. Ancient grains, such as quinoa, spelt, and einkorn, are often touted as being more nutritious than their modern counterparts. But is this really the case? In my opinion, the answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. While ancient grains do have some unique nutritional benefits, it's not as straightforward as assuming they are universally healthier. One thing that immediately stands out is the role of processing. Many ancient grains are indeed less processed, which means they retain more of their natural nutrients. For example, the bran and germ, which are typically removed in refining, contain fatty acids that shorten the shelf life. This is why you often see ancient grains marketed as 'unrefined' or 'whole'. But here's where it gets interesting. While ancient grains may have some nutritional advantages, the research on their health benefits is not entirely conclusive. Diets replete with wholegrains, however, are associated with a lower risk of numerous diseases, including type 2 diabetes. Research also shows a link between regularly eating wholegrains and experiencing lower blood pressure. In one 2020 review of 17 studies, researchers found that a diet high in wholegrains was linked to lower risk of colorectal, colon, gastric, pancreatic, and oesophageal cancers. What many people don't realize is that these findings are often confounded by the fact that those who eat wholegrains tend to have many other healthy habits. JulieMillerJones, professor emerita of foods and nutrition at St. Catherine University in Minnesota, US, points out that those who eat wholegrains tend to have a healthier diet overall, consisting of more fruits, vegetables, low-fat milk and fish, and less red and processed meat. This raises a deeper question: is it the ancient grains themselves, or the overall healthier lifestyle of those who consume them, that is responsible for the observed health benefits? To answer this, let's take a closer look at a Finnish study that analyzed the eating habits and health of over 5,000 adults. The scientists found that those who ate more wholegrains tended to have a healthier diet overall, consisting of more fruits, vegetables, low-fat milk and fish, and less red and processed meat. This suggests that the overall dietary pattern, rather than the specific grains, may be the key factor in the observed health benefits. Now, let's explore the concept of 'ancient' grains in more detail. A growing body of nutritional research is now suggesting there is a distinction between 'modern' grains that make up most of our diets and far less common 'ancient' grains. Many of both can be consumed as whole or refined grains, but modern grains are those bred over time through agricultural practices to select for offspring with desirable traits such as increased yield or superior taste. This is where the debate really heats up. While ancient grains may have some unique nutritional benefits, they are not necessarily superior to modern grains in every aspect. Modern grains have also been bred for specific traits, such as disease resistance and higher yields, which can be beneficial in certain contexts. What this really suggests is that the choice between ancient and modern grains should be based on individual needs and preferences, rather than a blanket assumption that one is inherently better than the other. In conclusion, the idea that ancient grains are universally healthier than modern ones is a bit of a myth. While ancient grains do have some unique nutritional benefits, the research on their health benefits is not entirely conclusive. The overall dietary pattern, rather than the specific grains, may be the key factor in the observed health benefits. So, the next time you're at the grocery store, don't feel compelled to choose ancient grains over modern ones. Instead, focus on building a balanced and varied diet that includes a mix of both, along with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and other healthy foods. After all, it's not just the grains that matter, but the overall quality of your diet.
