A new study, published Wednesday by the medical journal The BMJ, has found that a higher intake of highly processed (refined) grains may increase the risk of heart disease and death than having whole (unrefined) grains.
Worldwide, cereal grains, including rice, wheat, oats, and barley make up around 50% of daily caloric intake. Up to 70% of people in low- and middle-income countries rely on cereal grains, especially in Africa and South Asia.
Whole or unrefined grains are high in dietary fibers, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids than processed grains.
Previous research has shown that a higher intake of whole grain lowers the risk of cardiovascular disease and death.
However, there was no clear association between refined grains and the risk of heart disease and death. So, to address this, researchers conducted the study to determine the association between intakes of refined grains, whole grains, white rice, and cardiovascular disease and mortality.
The researchers found that participants who consumed more refined grains had a 33% higher risk of serious cardiovascular events and a 27% higher risk of death compared to those who ate less refined grains.
The study also found that a higher intake of refined grains was linked to higher blood pressure.
However, the researchers said there were a few limitations of the study. For instance, it was an observational study so it cannot establish the cause.
The investigators were able to analyses broad patterns of diet, which means the findings are likely to be robust and widely applicable to populations across the world, according to Medical Xpress.
Based on their findings, the authors suggested that a higher intake of whole grains should be encouraged. They said, “Reduction in quantity and improvement in the quality of carbohydrate is essential for better health outcomes.” The article was published Wednesday on Medical Xpress.
