The picture makes it hard to see the combine but I love watching the straw getting kicked out of the back! Last week and over the weekend Mike and Alex worked on getting Mike's Dad's rye combined. Why do I fret about rye harvest? Well, I always fret because when it is on the ground and there is the potential for rain, it is a battle to get it up before the rain moves in. We did run into a bit of rain last week that slowed us down and last night that shut us down but not enough rain to help any crops out unfortunately. But back to the rye! I feel like this is a wheat that doesn't get much attention so I wanted to give this crop some love. Rye is one of my favorite breads to have. I prefer dark for patty melts. If you have not had a patty melt on dark rye, you have not experienced a patty melt! Do it. Try it. So yummy! When I was in high school the restaurant I waitressed at made them with dark rye and I was hooked! Of course where I live now you have to make them yourself because no one makes them on dark rye. ANYWAY! Let's get to the nitty gritty of why rye should be a bread that is on your palette rotation!
First, rye has excellent nutritional benefits. Rye is a good source of essential nutrients such as fiber, vitamins (B-complex vitamins, including thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, and folate), minerals (iron, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus), and antioxidants.
Second, rye is rich in dietary fiber, namely soluble fiber, which can help regulate blood sugar levels, improve digestion, and promote a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.
Third, it can aid in better gut health. I never took a look at gut health until a few years ago! It is so important to be conscious of your gut. Rye contains a type of fiber call arabinoxylan, which has prebiotic properties. The prebiotics are beneficial for gut health as they nourish the beneficial gut bacteria, promoting a balanced gut microbiome.
Fourth, rye has a lower glycemic index (GI) compared to wheat. Foods with a lower GI can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which is beneficial for individuals with diabetes or those seeking to manage their blood sugar levels.
Fifth, consuming rye may help with cardiovascular health. The fiber and antioxidants in rye may help lower cholesterol and improve blood pressure.
Sixth, due to its fiber content it may help in weight management. It may do so by providing a fuller feeling and keeping a person to stay satisfied longer, reducing overall calorie intake.
Lastly, but rye does have gluten and therefore even lower it is has a lower GI and may make digestion easier for some, but if you are allergic to gluten this is out.
So now that we know more about rye, it sure is interesting to know that crazy bread that really doesn't get much attention may be better for us. Plus the flavor is fantastic! Don't wait. Go to the store. Grab your loaf of rye. Please feel free to message us on Facebook or Instagram with what you thought of rye, or if you already eat it, what's your favorite sandwich to make! We would love to hear how you use rye in your daily life!