Choose whole grains, good food, not diets

DALLAS, March 13 (UPI) -- As the days get longer and bathing-suit season draws near, some try fad diets, when healthier eating should be the goal, a U.S. nutritionist says.

Lona Sandon, assistant professor of clinical nutrition at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas, says it's important to keep whole grains in one's diet.

"Research shows that whole grains are good for your heart, lower the risk for diabetes and stroke, and may help prevent certain cancers," Sandon says in a statement. "They also help in managing weight."

Sandon says whole grains are not only full of fiber, but also have good-for-you nutrients like folate and niacin, B vitamins and magnesium.

"The phytochemicals found in whole grains have been shown to have health-promoting and disease-preventing benefits," Sandon adds.

Sandon recommends that adults aim for three servings, or 48 grams, of whole grains a day. Be sure to look for the words "made with whole grain" or "100 percent whole grain" on packages.

Sandon also recommends: eat whole wheat breads instead of white rolls and breads, use whole wheat bread crumbs for stuffing and serve whole wheat crackers with hors d'oeuvres.