Whole grains are a good source of polyphenols, which are compounds found in plants that have been shown to have various health benefits. Here is a list of some of the polyphenols found in whole grains:
Flavonoids: These are a type of polyphenol found in whole grains that have antioxidant properties. Some common flavonoids found in whole grains include quercetin, kaempferol, and catechin.
Phenolic acids: These are another type of polyphenol found in whole grains that have antioxidant properties. Some common phenolic acids found in whole grains include ferulic acid, p-coumaric acid, and sinapic acid.
Lignans: These are polyphenols found in whole grains that have been shown to have estrogen-like activity and may have a role in cancer prevention. Some common lignans found in whole grains include secoisolariciresinol and matairesinol.
Stilbenes: These are polyphenols found in whole grains that have been shown to have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Some common stilbenes found in whole grains include resveratrol and piceatannol.
Phytic acid: This is a polyphenol found in whole grains that has been shown to have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also known for its ability to bind to minerals such as calcium, iron, and zinc, which may help to reduce the risk of mineral deficiencies.
Keep in mind that the specific types and amounts of polyphenols found in whole grains can vary depending on the specific grain and the method of processing. It’s always a good idea to include a variety of whole grains in your diet to ensure that you are getting a wide range of polyphenols and other nutrients.
Polyphenols are significant in digestion of bread and in this study on polyphenols in bread it looks at the interaction of bread and berry polyphenols, such as those in blackcurrant compote. It is significant for bakers because it reveals that co-digestion of bread with berry extracts can significantly reduce the rate and extent of starch digestion, which in turn lowers the glycemic index of starchy foods. This is particularly beneficial for people with diabetes or those looking to control their blood sugar levels.
