Read the following passage. You have 3 minutes to read the passage. Get your timers or your stopwatch ready to time yourself. The time starts as soon as you begin reading the passage below.
READING
Whole Wheat
Whole grains such as whole wheat are healthy. An intact whole grain includes the bran: the fiber-filled outer layer, the germ: the nutrient-dense core, and the endosperm: the starchy carbohydrate. Each of these parts provide nutrients and help to promote healthy functions of the body.
Nutrient rich, whole wheat contains healthy oils and plant enzymes. Whole wheat includes vitamin E, which benefits the immune system, and B vitamins, which promote cell health. It is also rich in minerals like manganese, which helps the body to utilize vitamins, and phosphorous, which is needed in the growth, maintenance and repair of cell tissue. With many other health promoting vitamins and minerals, whole wheat offers a complete source of nourishment.
In addition, whole wheat can help prevent spikes in blood sugar. This is because intact whole grains contain fiber, which moves through the intestines aiding with digestive processes. Fiber slows digestion, resulting in a slower conversion of starch to sugar. Regular consumption of whole grains has been shown to control blood sugar levels and lower the risk of diabetes.
Whole wheat can also lower inflammation. This may be due to the fact that whole wheat is rich in polyphenols, a compound found in plants. Studies have shown that polyphenols reduce inflammation throughout the body. Since chronic inflammation is associated with many diseases such as asthma, cancer and cardiovascular diseases, eating whole wheat may play a large role in preventing disease.
Now, listen to the Lecture. You may take notes as you listen.
LECTURE
You have 20 minutes to write an essay explaining how the points in the lecture contrast the points made in the reading.
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