Whole wheat flour is made from coarsely ground whole grains and contains their shells, unlike so-called white flour, which is made from only part of the grain after removing the outer shell and germ from it. Because of this, it appears coarser and more uneven - its particles are not the same as in the finer and whiter flours.
Whole wheat flour is characterized by a high content of particles from the peripheral coats of the grain and the germ, which determine its distinctive physical and chemical properties:
- increased content of mineral substances (ash content);
- increased content of vitamins B and E;
- higher protein content;
- high content of fatty acids and dietary fiber.
For these reasons, whole wheat flour is considered more dietary and healthy. Regular consumption of whole grain flour products helps normalize the processes of the gastrointestinal tract, has a positive effect on the condition of the skin and hair, improves vision and the general condition of the central nervous system, regulates metabolism.
In addition, fibers play the role of an absorbent: they absorb toxins, including salts of heavy metals and remove them from the body naturally. The starches contained in the endosperm are rich in carbohydrates, which makes the flour nutritious.
Whole wheat bread helps with weight loss. The reason is the large number of bran. By swelling in the stomach, they quickly cause a feeling of satiety, which prevents overeating.
This flour is great for making pancakes, cakes, pies, as it has a richer flavor and a beautiful yellowish hue. When baking bread with white flour at home, whole grains can be added to improve the taste of the bread.
It's worth bearing in mind that whole grain flour is likely to make the bread denser. But the most useful and nutritious will be the bread made only from whole grain flour. This is the bread our ancestors ate.
Note that whole wheat flour dough requires more water: coarsely ground grains absorb a lot of moisture when they swells. Therefore, the bread is denser.
With whole wheat flour you can prepare:
- whole wheat biscuits;
