Food Groups:
Breads, Cereals, Pasta, Rice & Other Grains
and Dry Peas & Beans

Breads, cereals, pasta, rice and other grains, and dry peas and beans are generally high in starch and fiber and low in saturated fat and calories. They also have no dietary cholesterol. Except for some breads and cereals, most foods in this group also are low in sodium -- check the food label to be sure. Like fruits and vegetables, foods in this group are good choices.

When buying foods from this group, remember to:

Choose whole-grain breads and rolls often.

If you are watching your sodium intake, compare labels and choose those lower in sodium. Buy dry cereals; most are low in fat. Limit the high fat granola, muesli, and oat bran types that are made with coconut or coconut oil, which increases the saturated fat content. Granola and muesli often have nuts as well, which increases total fat and calories. Some cereals are high in sodium. Buy pasta, rice, and dry peas and beans to use as entrees, or in casseroles or soups. Hold the high fat sauces. Limit baked goods that are made with lots of saturated fat, like croissants, muffins, biscuits, butter rolls, and doughnuts.