Whole-Food Grains Guide
35 items classified under standard Whole-Food guidelines.
How do grains fare on the Whole-Food diet? The answer depends on processing level. This guide breaks down all 35 items in this category with their classification, nutritional data, and the reasoning behind each status.
Quick Reference
| Food | Status | Calories (per 100g) |
|---|---|---|
| Amaranth | Allowed | 23kcal |
| Barley | Allowed | 352kcal |
| Buckwheat | Allowed | 343kcal |
| Corn | Allowed | 86kcal |
| Cornmeal | Allowed | 398kcal |
| Millet | Allowed | 378kcal |
| Oats | Allowed | 379kcal |
| Quinoa | Allowed | 120kcal |
| Rice | Allowed | 392kcal |
| Spelt | Allowed | 127kcal |
| Oat Flour | Limited | 404kcal |
| Wheat Flour | Limited | 332kcal |
| Arrowroot Powder | Not Allowed | 65kcal |
| Bagel | Not Allowed | 264kcal |
| Burrito | Not Allowed | 219kcal |
| Corn Flakes | Not Allowed | 44kcal |
| Cornstarch | Not Allowed | 381kcal |
| Croutons | Not Allowed | 407kcal |
| English Muffin | Not Allowed | 227kcal |
| Fried Rice | Not Allowed | 174kcal |
| Granola Bars | Not Allowed | 471kcal |
| Naan | Not Allowed | 311kcal |
| Nachos | Not Allowed | 265kcal |
| Pancakes | Not Allowed | 282kcal |
| Pasta | Not Allowed | 371kcal |
| Pita Bread | Not Allowed | 457kcal |
| Pizza | Not Allowed | 280kcal |
| Rice Cakes | Not Allowed | 392kcal |
| Rice Crackers | Not Allowed | 416kcal |
| Rice Noodles | Not Allowed | 364kcal |
| Rye Bread | Not Allowed | 338kcal |
| Sourdough Bread | Not Allowed | 272kcal |
| Tacos | Not Allowed | 170kcal |
| Tapioca Starch | Not Allowed | 358kcal |
| Waffles | Not Allowed | 309kcal |
Classification Breakdown
10 Allowed — These grains are minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. 2 Limited — These items have moderately processed — fine in plain form, often ultra-processed in branded versions. 23 Not Allowed — These are an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives.
The target is NOVA group 4 — ultra-processed foods built from extracted components and additives.
Allowed Grains (10)
Amaranth
AllowedWith 23kcal calories per 100g, Amaranth earns a Allowed classification on Whole-Food. This means it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. Among the 35 items in this category, amaranth sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Corn Flakes at 44kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Barley
AllowedBarley is classified as Allowed on Whole-Food, with 352kcal calories per 100g. The classification reflects that it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. Nutritionally, it also delivers 9.9g protein and 15.6g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Buckwheat and Tapioca Starch for calories, ranking 21 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Buckwheat
AllowedBuckwheat is classified as Allowed on Whole-Food, with 343kcal calories per 100g. This means it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. It also contains 13.2g protein and 10g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Rye Bread and Barley for calories, ranking 20 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Corn
AllowedAt 86kcal calories per 100g, Corn falls into the Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. This means it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. Among the 35 items in this category, corn sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Quinoa at 120kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sweet Corn (raw) | 86kcal | 3.3g | 1.4g | 18.7g | 2g |
| Sweet Corn (canned) | 67kcal | 2.3g | 1.2g | 14.3g | 2g |
Cornmeal
AllowedAt 398kcal calories per 100g, Cornmeal falls into the Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. The classification reflects that it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. Nutritionally, it also delivers 10.4g protein and 5.4g fat per serving. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Rice Cakes at 392kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Millet
AllowedWith 378kcal calories per 100g, Millet earns a Allowed classification on Whole-Food. It is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. Beyond the primary classification, millet also provides 11g protein and 8.5g fiber per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Pasta and Oats for calories, ranking 25 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Oats
AllowedWith 379kcal calories per 100g, Oats earns a Allowed classification on Whole-Food. It is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. Beyond the primary classification, oats also provides 13.2g protein and 6.5g fat per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Millet and Cornstarch for calories, ranking 26 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rolled Oats (dry) | 379kcal | 13.2g | 6.5g | 67.7g | 10.1g |
| Oatmeal (cooked) | 379kcal | 13.2g | 6.5g | 67.7g | 10.1g |
Quinoa
AllowedQuinoa is classified as Allowed on Whole-Food, with 120kcal calories per 100g. This means it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. It also contains 2.8g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. Among the 35 items in this category, quinoa sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Spelt at 127kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dry | 368kcal | 14.1g | 6.1g | 64.2g | 7g |
| Cooked | 120kcal | 4.4g | 1.9g | 21.3g | 2.8g |
Rice
AllowedWith 392kcal calories per 100g, Rice earns a Allowed classification on Whole-Food. This means it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. It also contains 7.1g protein and 4.2g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Cornstarch at 381kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| White Rice (cooked) | 130kcal | 2.7g | 0.3g | 28.2g | 0.4g |
| Brown Rice (cooked) | 112kcal | 2.3g | 0.8g | 23.5g | 1.8g |
Spelt
AllowedSpelt is classified as Allowed on Whole-Food, with 127kcal calories per 100g. The classification reflects that it is minimally processed, in or close to its natural state. Nutritionally, it also delivers 5.5g protein and 3.9g fiber per serving. Among the 35 items in this category, spelt sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Tacos at 170kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Limited Grains (2)
Oat Flour
LimitedAt 404kcal calories per 100g, Oat Flour falls into the Limited category under Whole-Food guidelines. It is moderately processed — fine in plain form, often ultra-processed in branded versions. Beyond the primary classification, oat flour also provides 14.7g protein and 9.1g fat per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Cornmeal at 398kcal. Portion control is key here — a small amount may fit within the diet's parameters, while a full serving may not.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Wheat Flour
LimitedAt 332kcal calories per 100g, Wheat Flour falls into the Limited category under Whole-Food guidelines. The classification reflects that it is moderately processed — fine in plain form, often ultra-processed in branded versions. Nutritionally, it also delivers 9.6g protein and 13.1g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Naan and Rye Bread for calories, ranking 18 of 35. Portion control is key here — a small amount may fit within the diet's parameters, while a full serving may not.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Not Allowed Grains (23)
Arrowroot Powder
Not AllowedWith 65kcal calories per 100g, Arrowroot Powder earns a Not Allowed classification on Whole-Food. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Among the 35 items in this category, arrowroot powder sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Corn at 86kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Bagel
Not AllowedAt 264kcal calories per 100g, Bagel falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. The classification reflects that it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Nutritionally, it also delivers 10.6g protein and 422mg sodium per serving. Within this category, it falls between English Muffin and Nachos for calories, ranking 11 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Burrito
Not AllowedBurrito is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 219kcal calories per 100g. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It also contains 11.1g protein and 8.5g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Fried Rice and English Muffin for calories, ranking 9 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Corn Flakes
Not AllowedCorn Flakes is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 44kcal calories per 100g. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Among the 35 items in this category, corn flakes sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Arrowroot Powder at 65kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Cornstarch
Not AllowedCornstarch is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 381kcal calories per 100g. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Oats at 379kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Croutons
Not AllowedAt 407kcal calories per 100g, Croutons falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. It is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Beyond the primary classification, croutons also provides 11.9g protein and 6.6g fat per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Oat Flour at 404kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
English Muffin
Not AllowedEnglish Muffin is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 227kcal calories per 100g. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It also contains 8.9g protein and 3.5g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Burrito and Bagel for calories, ranking 10 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Fried Rice
Not AllowedAt 174kcal calories per 100g, Fried Rice falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. It is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Beyond the primary classification, fried rice also provides 387mg sodium per 100g. Among the 35 items in this category, fried rice sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Burrito at 219kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Granola Bars
Not AllowedGranola Bars is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 471kcal calories per 100g. The classification reflects that it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Nutritionally, it also delivers 10.1g protein and 19.8g fat per serving. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Pita Bread at 457kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Naan
Not AllowedWith 311kcal calories per 100g, Naan earns a Not Allowed classification on Whole-Food. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It also contains 11.1g protein and 7.3g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Waffles and Wheat Flour for calories, ranking 17 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Nachos
Not AllowedAt 265kcal calories per 100g, Nachos falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. The classification reflects that it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Nutritionally, it also delivers 7.6g protein and 15.9g fat per serving. Within this category, it falls between Bagel and Sourdough Bread for calories, ranking 12 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Pancakes
Not AllowedWith 282kcal calories per 100g, Pancakes earns a Not Allowed classification on Whole-Food. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It also contains 7.4g protein and 12.1g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Pizza and Waffles for calories, ranking 15 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Pasta
Not AllowedPasta is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 371kcal calories per 100g. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It also contains 13g protein and 3.2g fiber, which may factor into overall meal planning. Within this category, it falls between Rice Noodles and Millet for calories, ranking 24 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
| Variant | Calories | Protein | Fat | Carbs | Fiber |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Pasta (cooked) | 157kcal | 5.8g | 0.9g | 30.6g | 1.8g |
| Whole Wheat Pasta (cooked) | 159kcal | 5.8g | 1.5g | 31.5g | 4.6g |
Pita Bread
Not AllowedPita Bread is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 457kcal calories per 100g. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It also contains 11.8g protein and 15.2g fat, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Rice Crackers at 416kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Pizza
Not AllowedAt 280kcal calories per 100g, Pizza falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. The classification reflects that it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Nutritionally, it also delivers 11.7g protein and 12.6g fat per serving. Within this category, it falls between Sourdough Bread and Pancakes for calories, ranking 14 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rice Cakes
Not AllowedAt 392kcal calories per 100g, Rice Cakes falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. It is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Beyond the primary classification, rice cakes also provides 7.1g protein and 4.2g fiber per 100g. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Rice at 392kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rice Crackers
Not AllowedWith 416kcal calories per 100g, Rice Crackers earns a Not Allowed classification on Whole-Food. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. It also contains 10g protein and 233mg sodium, which may factor into overall meal planning. It ranks among the highest in this category for calories. The nearest lower option is Croutons at 407kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rice Noodles
Not AllowedAt 364kcal calories per 100g, Rice Noodles falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. The classification reflects that it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Nutritionally, it also delivers 6g protein per serving. Within this category, it falls between Tapioca Starch and Pasta for calories, ranking 23 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Rye Bread
Not AllowedAt 338kcal calories per 100g, Rye Bread falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. It is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Beyond the primary classification, rye bread also provides 10.3g protein and 15.1g fiber per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Wheat Flour and Buckwheat for calories, ranking 19 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Sourdough Bread
Not AllowedAt 272kcal calories per 100g, Sourdough Bread falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. The classification reflects that it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Nutritionally, it also delivers 10.8g protein and 2.2g fiber per serving. Within this category, it falls between Nachos and Pizza for calories, ranking 13 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Tacos
Not AllowedWith 170kcal calories per 100g, Tacos earns a Not Allowed classification on Whole-Food. It is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Beyond the primary classification, tacos also provides 6.7g protein and 9.2g fat per 100g. Among the 35 items in this category, tacos sits at the low end for calories — next closest is Fried Rice at 174kcal.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Tapioca Starch
Not AllowedTapioca Starch is classified as Not Allowed on Whole-Food, with 358kcal calories per 100g. This means it is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Within this category, it falls between Barley and Rice Noodles for calories, ranking 22 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central
Waffles
Not AllowedAt 309kcal calories per 100g, Waffles falls into the Not Allowed category under Whole-Food guidelines. It is an industrially formulated product with extracted ingredients and additives. Beyond the primary classification, waffles also provides 7.4g protein and 9.5g fat per 100g. Within this category, it falls between Pancakes and Naan for calories, ranking 16 of 35.
Per 100g · Source: USDA FoodData Central