Whole Wheat Flour – गेहूँ का आटा

It is a finely ground flour of Whole Wheat Flour – गेहूँ का आटा. It is derived by grinding the whole grain of wheat. It is high in fibre and more healthy and nutritious than white flour. It is a brownish flour with a coarse texture and sweet nutty flavour. The word ‘whole’ is used to describe this flour as it includes every aspect of the grain, the bran, germ and the endosperm as well. It is also known as Whole meal flour and is called Atta in India.

Usage

It is commonly used to make Indian flatbreads like chapati, naan, puri etc. It is often used in baking bread and other items. It is often mixed with other varieties of flour in order to add some nutritional value and provide some texture.

Whole wheat pastas are widely popular among health-conscious consumers. It is also used to make pizza bases.

Nutritional Value

1. Whole wheat flour helps lower the risk of type 2 diabetes.

2. It is a rich source of magnesium that acts as a cofactor for enzymes involved in the body’s use of glucose and insulin secretion.

3. Betaine in whole wheat flour helps in lessening chronic inflammation.

4. It is high in insoluble fibre that can help women avoid gallstones and protect against breast cancer.

5. Consumption of whole-grain products and dietary fibre has been shown to reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attack.

6. It reduces the risk of diabetes and coronary heart disease. It acts as a laxative.

Source/Know More: NDTV Foods