Spelt, An Ancient Grain. A Panacea for Better Health?

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Could spelt, an ancient grain, be a panacea for what ails the American diet?

Perhaps not a panacea, but it surely can help. With 24 million Americans with diabetes, and approximately 230 million worldwide, perhaps, this growing disease is a result of our modern diets rather than some unknown phenomenon. As more of our food supply becomes genetically engineered, processed, and bereft of natural nutritional value (not fortified), perhaps it’s the time to rediscover ancient foods that have nourished civilizations for thousands of years. Spelt is one of those incredible ancient foods, which is known for his high fiber content, 8 essential amino acids, and “is an excellent source of vitamin B2, a very good source of manganese, and a good source of niacin, thiamin, and copper.” World’s Healthiest Foods website. According to World’s Healthiest Food’s article “this particular combination of nutrients provided by spelt may make it a particularly helpful food for persons with migraine headache, atherosclerosis, or diabetes.” www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=143

Spelt products are generally found in health food stores, but one small Maine Company, Spelt Right Baking, www.speltrightbaking.com has entered into mainstream markets. Spelt Right frozen spelt bagels are available at Hannaford Supermarkets throughout the Northeast. Hannaford also sells Vita Spelt in bulk, the spelt flour produced by Purity Foods, Inc. of Okemo, Michigan. Spelt Right products are also available at Whole Foods throughout the Northeast. Because of a demand for healthier breakfast options, Spelt Right bagels have even made their way into Portland, Maine local eateries, such as Becky’s Diner, North Star Café, Hot SuppA, the Pepper Club/Good Egg, Bintliff’s Café, Aurora Provisions, Mousse Café, and Artemisia.