Any food that is as close to its natural state as possible and has little or no processing can be included in the whole foods category. Though of course, some food items are processed in some way to make them usable, IE removing the grain from its husk. It is the excessive processing that begins to de-stabilize the nutrients of the item. So, simply put the difference between whole foods and refined foods is shown in this small example chart:

Why choose whole grains? 

 When grains are refined, into flour for example, most of the nutrients are lost. Grains used in their whole form have abundant amounts of magnesium, zinc, selenium, vitamin E, copper, iron, B vitamins, pantothenic acid and manganese. Also, whole grains are rich in fibre and plant phytochemicals* such as lutein. In short, whole grains are just what they sound like - Whole - and that will keep your body nourished, your emotions balanced, your digestion strong, your immune system boosted, your blood sugar stable and your energy levels up. Coupled with a diet full of colourful veggies, fruits, beans and the occasional treat, you can’t go wrong!

*phytochemicals are plant based chemicals that may help to prevent cancer, heart disease and other problems associated with meat-based diets.