Rye Explained
Whole grain rye is good for your digestive system

What is whole grain rye?
A whole grain consists of three parts: bran, endosperm, and germ. A whole grain means that the bran and germ portions are not removed.

Why are whole grains important?
Bran - provides fiber, B vitamins, minerals, proteins, and phytonutrients (naturally occurring plant substances).
Endosperm - contains carbohydrates, proteins, and small amounts of B vitamins.
Germ - packed with minerals, B vitamins, vitamin E, and phytonutrients.

Rye & Fiber
Dietary fiber from whole grains is an important part of your diet. However, few people eat enough fiber to receive the benefits.

Dietary fiber is found in cereal foods, beans, lentils, fruit, and vegetables.

There are two broad types of fiber: Soluble and insoluble. these are found in different proportions in fiber containing foods and have different properties. It is therefore important to eat a variety of fiber containing foods.

Insoluble fiber can act as a bulking agent. Hey benefits are: it keeps you regular and helps keep the digestive system healthy. For fiber to have the best effect in keeping you regular, an increase in fiber intake should be accompanied by an increase in water intake. Whole grain cereals and whole grain bread are particularly good sources of insoluble fiber.

Soluble fiber, when eaten in large quantities, can help reduce blood cholesterol levels. It can also help control blood glucose levels. Oats, fruit, vegetables, and pulses (beans, lentils, and chickpeas) are good sources of soluble fiber.

What's In Rye?
Rye contains ligans (phytoestrogens), which may be important in digestive and heart health.

Preliminary studies have shown that rye may act as a natural 'prebiotic', helping the growth of friendly bacteria in your digestive system.

Rye contains antioxidants. They help to fight free radicals, and help protect cells from damage caused by oxygen, UV light, and other environmental factors.