Grains are the edible seeds harvested from food crops. They make up a majority of the American diet and are present in most food products. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, the diet should consist of six to 11 servings of whole grain foods each day.
Wheat
Wheat is the most common grain. It can be found in food products ranging from the obvious---such as pasta and crackers---to more obscure sources, such as bouillon cubes and luncheon meats. Whole wheat is high in fiber and protein and contains important nutrients, such as iron, zinc and riboflavin (B2). Food products made primarily from wheat include wheat bread, cereal, pastries, pretzels, pita bread and pastas, though the list of foods containing wheat as a secondary ingredient is much more extensive.
Rice
Rice is among the most popular grains worldwide. It is available in a variety of types, ranging from long-grained brown to wild rice and more. According to Nutrition Data, whole grain (brown) rice is a good source of magnesium, potassium and healthy fatty acids like Omega-3.
Food products made with rice include cereal and crackers as well as rice milk, patties and noodles. In addition, many popular dishes include rice, such as rice pilaf and shrimp fried rice. Products made with rice have gained popularity as the demand for gluten-free foods has increased.
Corn
According to the Environmental Protection Agency, corn is the most commonly farmed crop in the United States. It is also a staple of nutrition in South America, India and many other locations around the world. Corn is a good source of essential trace minerals like selenium, magnesium and zinc and contains a host of vitamins including A, E and B6. Dishes that call for corn are varied and include casseroles, couscous and salads. It can also be used to make products like cornbread, tortillas, chips, cereals and pudding.
Barley
Barley is a grain used in a variety of food products in the United States and around the world. Barley products containing at least .75 grams of fiber per serving can help prevent coronary heart disease, a claim that was backed by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration in 2005. Foods that can be made using barley include cereals, beer, breads, and coffee substitute beverages. It can also be found in stews, porridge and the non-alcoholic drink barley water.
Oats
Oats are a cereal grain used in foods like oatmeal, cereal and many other grain-based products. According to the Mayo Clinic, the soluble fiber in oats can help lower levels of LDL cholesterol, a major contributing factor in the development of heart disease.
Oats are used in a variety of food products, among the most common being oatmeal and granola. Many recipes, such as pancakes and soups, call for oats as well. Other foods containing oats include cereal bars, waffles, muffins and muesli.
