There are numerous reasons why you should choose whole grains over refined grains. Of course, the most obvious is the health benefits.
The refining process of refined grains consequently strips grains of valuable nutrients. Specifically, the process strips away more than half of wheat’s B vitamins, 90 percent of the vitamin E, and virtually all of the fiber. Meanwhile, whole grains offer the complete package of health benefits.
There is a growing body of research that shows that choosing whole grains improves health in many ways. Aune and colleagues report on their meta-analysis of 45 cohort studies, shows that a higher intake of whole grains is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and total cancer. Also reported is that whole grains have beneficial effects on glucose-insulin homeostasis, blood lipids, and gastrointestinal health.
Other benefits of whole grains, as cited by the Whole Grains Council include:
- reduced risk of stroke
- reduced risk of type 2 diabetes
- reduced risk of heart disease
- better weight maintenance
- less inflammation
- lower risk of colorectal cancer
Besides the disease-fighting phytochemicals and antioxidants of whole grains, the evidence makes it clear that whole grains offer a diverse range of benefits that few foods can offer. So whether you’re munching on some popcorn or enjoying a bowl of oatmeal you are reaping one fantastically cool heap of health rewards.
Do you choose whole grains over refined grains? What’s your most frequently consumed whole grain and why?
