Healthy Flour Alternatives

All-purpose flour is often the most used because it is relatively inexpensive and widely available. However, the milling process that all-purpose flour goes through ends up striping away many of the nutrients including fiber, iron, and B-vitamins. One 1/2 cup serving of all-purpose flour contains 1.7 grams of fiber and 6.5 grams of protein.

There are many different flour alternatives now, as people's concerns for gluten have increased, that offer different nutritional value. Each flour can replace traditional all-purpose flour in a 1:1 ratio. The textures and flavors may vary slightly with each alternative.

Whole Wheat-

Whole wheat flour contains the bran and germ of the wheat kernel which provide more fiber than refined flours, including refined wheat flour. There are 6 grams of fiber and 8 grams of protein in each 1/2 cup serving.

Oat Flour-

Oat flour is made from whole oats which provides more protein and fiber than all-purpose or refined flour. There are 3.4 grams of fiber and 7.6 grams of protein in each 1/2 cup serving.

Oat flour is also a great alternative because it can be made at home by putting old fashioned oats into a food processor and grinding until you reach your desired texture.

Almond Flour-

Almond flour is higher in fats and protein than traditional flours. It is also high in magnesium which is helpful in regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure. There are 6 grams of fiber and 12 grams of protein in each 1/2 cup serving.

Almond flour can also be made at home using a food processor and unsalted, blanched almonds.

Quinoa Flour-

Quinoa flour is made from ground quinoa which is a complete plant based protein, meaning it has all 9 essential amino acids. It has 4 grams of fiber, 8 grams of protein, and is rich in magnesium, iron, and B-vitamins.

Buckwheat Flour-

Buckwheat flour is rich in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. It is also very low in cholesterol. One 1/2 cup serving contains 6 grams of fiber and 7.6 grams of protein.

Try out this Oat Flour Pancake recipe: