The New Year is a great time to reprioritize wellness and work to strengthen healthy habits. Whole grains have long been recognized as a central component of nutritious diets by health experts around the world (new research even links whole grains to longevity -- more on this below), so this year, let's resolve to make even more of the grains on our plate whole, and find whole grain versions of our refined grain favorites. After all, small swaps can add up to a big difference in nutrition and health!

Make it a habit to ask for brown rice at your favorite Asian restaurant, whole wheat crust at the local pizzeria, and whole grain bread or wraps at delis and sub shops. At home, stock your pantry with oatmeal (5 creative topping ideas later in this issue!), whole wheat pasta, and whole grain breakfast cereal. From there you can branch out to other whole grains, such as quinoa, teff, barley, and farro. Also, for anyone resolving to get healthier this year, be sure to check out our blog post on four ways to make healthy habits stick.