scholarly journals Why whole grains are protective: biological mechanisms

2003 ◽  
Vol 62 (1) ◽  
pp. 129-134 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joanne Slavin
Keyword(s):  
Biological Effects ◽  
Blood Lipid ◽  
Short Chain Fatty Acids ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Glycaemic Index ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Biological Mechanisms ◽  
Glycaemic Load ◽  
Diabetes And Obesity

Epidemiological studies find that whole-grain intake is protective against cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity. Potential mechanisms for this protection are diverse since whole grains are rich in nutrients and phytochemicals. First, whole grains are concentrated sources of dietary fibre, resistant starch and oligosaccharides, carbohydrates that escape digestion in the small intestine and are fermented in the gut, producing short-chain fatty acids (SCFA). SCFA lower colonic pH, serve as an energy source for the colonocytes and may alter blood lipids. These improvements in the gut environment may provide immune protection beyond the gut. Second, whole grains are rich in antioxidants, including trace minerals and phenolic compounds, and these compounds have been linked to disease prevention. Additionally, whole grains mediate insulin and glucose responses. Although lower glycaemic load and glycaemic index have been linked to diabetes and obesity, risk of cancers such as colon and breast cancer have also been linked to high intake of readily-available carbohydrate. Finally, whole grains contain many other compounds that may protect against chronic disease. These compunds include phytate, phyto-oestrogens such as lignan, plant stanols and sterols, and vitamins and minerals. As a consequence of the traditional models of conducting nutrition studies on isolated nutrients, few studies exist on the biological effects of increased whole-grain intake. The few whole-grain feeding studies that are available show improvements in biomarkers with whole-grain consumption, such as weight loss, blood lipid improvement and antioxidant protection.

scholarly journals Whole grains and human health

2004 ◽  
Vol 17 (1) ◽  
pp. 99-110 ◽  
Author(s):  
Joanne Slavin
Keyword(s):  
Dietary Fibre ◽  
Blood Lipid ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Trace Minerals ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Protective Properties ◽  
Usual Intake ◽  
High Concentrations ◽  
Diabetes And Obesity

Epidemiological studies find that whole-grain intake is protective against cancer, CVD, diabetes, and obesity. Despite recommendations to consume three servings of whole grains daily, usual intake in Western countries is only about one serving/d. Whole grains are rich in nutrients and phytochemicals with known health benefits. Whole grains have high concentrations of dietary fibre, resistant starch, and oligosaccharides. Whole grains are rich in antioxidants including trace minerals and phenolic compounds and these compounds have been linked to disease prevention. Other protective compounds in whole grains include phytate, phyto-oestrogens such as lignan, plant stanols and sterols, and vitamins and minerals. Published whole-grain feeding studies report improvements in biomarkers with whole-grain consumption, such as weight loss, blood-lipid improvement, and antioxidant protection. Although it is difficult to separate the protective properties of whole grains from dietary fibre and other components, the disease protection seen from whole grains in prospective epidemiological studies far exceeds the protection from isolated nutrients and phytochemicals in whole grains.

scholarly journals The associations between whole grain and refined grain intakes and serum C-reactive protein

2021 ◽  
Author(s):  
Riikka E. Taskinen ◽  
Sari Hantunen ◽  
Tomi-Pekka Tuomainen ◽  
Jyrki K. Virtanen
Keyword(s):  
Disease Risk ◽  
High Sensitivity ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Dietary Factors ◽  
Low Grade ◽  
Dietary Intakes ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Refined Grains ◽  
Hs Crp

Abstract Background/objectives Epidemiological studies suggest that whole grain intake has inverse associations with low-grade inflammation, but findings regarding refined grains are inconclusive. Our objective was to investigate whether consumption of whole or refined grains is associated with serum high sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP). Subjects/methods The study included 756 generally healthy men and women aged 53–73 years from the Kuopio Ischaemic Heart Disease Risk Factory Study, examined in 1999–2001. Dietary intakes were assessed using 4-day food records. ANCOVA and linear regression were used for analyses. Results The mean intake of whole and refined grains was 136 g/day (SD 80) and 84 g/day (SD 46), respectively. Higher whole grain intake was associated with lower hs-CRP concentration and higher refined grain intake with higher concentration after adjustment for lifestyle and dietary factors. Each 50 g/d higher whole grain intake was associated with 0.12 mg/L (95% Cl 0.02–0.21 mg/L) lower hs-CRP concentration and each 50 g/d higher refined grain intake with 0.23 mg/L (95% Cl 0.08–0.38) higher concentration. Adjustment for fibre from grains attenuated the associations especially with whole grains. There were no statistically significant interactions according to gender or BMI (P for interactions >0.065). Conclusions The results of this study suggest that higher intake of whole grains is associated with lower concentrations of hs-CRP and higher intake of refined grains is associated with higher concentrations. However, especially the association with whole grain intake was attenuated after adjusting for fibre intake from grains, suggesting that cereal fibre may partly explain the association.

scholarly journals Whole grain, bran and cereal fibre consumption and CVD: a systematic review

2019 ◽  
Vol 121 (8) ◽  
pp. 914-937 ◽  
Author(s):  
Eden M. Barrett ◽  
Marijka J. Batterham ◽  
Sumantra Ray ◽  
Eleanor J. Beck
Keyword(s):  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Fibre Content ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Protective Effects ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Cvd Risk ◽  
Methodical Approach ◽  
Grain Foods ◽  
Whole Grain Cereal

AbstractWhole grain intake is associated with lower CVD risk in epidemiological studies. It is unclear to what extent cereal fibre, located primarily within the bran, is responsible. This review aimed to evaluate association between intake of whole grain, cereal fibre and bran and CVD risk. Academic databases were searched for human studies published before March 2018. Observational studies reporting whole grain and cereal fibre or bran intake in association with any CVD-related outcome were included. Studies were separated into those defining whole grain using a recognised definition (containing the bran, germ and endosperm in their natural proportions) (three studies, seven publications) and those using an alternative definition, such as including added bran as a whole grain source (eight additional studies, thirteen publications). Intake of whole grain, cereal fibre and bran were similarly associated with lower risk of CVD-related outcomes. Within the initial analysis, where studies used the recognised whole grain definition, results were less likely to show attenuation after adjustment for cereal fibre content. The fibre component of grain foods appears to play an important role in protective effects of whole grains. Adjusting for fibre content, associations remained, suggesting that additional components within the whole grain, and the bran component, may contribute to cardio-protective association. The limited studies and considerable discrepancy in defining and calculating whole grain intake limit conclusions. Future research should utilise a consistent definition and methodical approach of calculating whole grain intake to contribute to a greater body of consistent evidence surrounding whole grains.

scholarly journals Reproducibility and relative validity of dietary glycaemic index and load assessed with a self-administered diet-history questionnaire in Japanese adults

2008 ◽  
Vol 99 (3) ◽  
pp. 639-648 ◽  
Author(s):  
Kentaro Murakami ◽  
Satoshi Sasaki ◽  
Yoshiko Takahashi ◽  
Hitomi Okubo ◽  
Naoko Hirota ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Glycaemic Index ◽  
Relative Validity ◽  
White Rice ◽  
Glycaemic Load ◽  
Japanese Adults ◽  
Dietary Records ◽  
Diet History Questionnaire ◽  
Diet History ◽  
The Mean

Although many epidemiological studies have examined the association of dietary glycaemic index (GI) and glycaemic load (GL) with health outcomes, information on the reproducibility and relative validity of these variables estimated from dietary questionnaires is extremely limited. We examined the reproducibility and relative validity of dietary GI and GL assessed with a self-administered diet-history questionnaire (DHQ) in adult Japanese. A total of ninety-two Japanese women and ninety-two Japanese men aged 31–76 years completed the DHQ (assessing diet during the preceding month) and 4 d dietary records (DR) in each season over a 1-year period (DHQ1–4 and DR1–4, respectively) and the DHQ at 1 year after completing DHQ1 (DHQ5). We used intraclass correlations between DHQ1 and DHQ5 to assess reproducibility, and Pearson correlations between the mean of DR1–4 and mean of DHQ1–4 and between the mean of DR1–4 and DHQ1 to assess relative validity. Reproducibility correlations for dietary GI and GL were 0·57 and 0·69 among women and 0·65 and 0·58 among men, respectively. Validity correlations for dietary GI and GL assessed by DHQ1–4 were 0·72 and 0·66 among women and 0·65 and 0·71 among men, respectively. Corresponding correlations for DHQ1 were 0·53 and 0·58 among women and 0·57 and 0·60 among men, respectively. White rice was the major contributor to GI and GL in both methods (49–64 %). These data indicate reasonable reproducibility and relative validity of dietary GI and GL assessed by a DHQ for Japanese adults, whose dietary GI and GL are primarily determined by the GI of white rice.

scholarly journals Whole grains protect against atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease

2003 ◽  
Vol 62 (1) ◽  
pp. 135-142 ◽  
Author(s):  
James W. Anderson
Keyword(s):  
Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Vascular Reactivity ◽  
Ldl Cholesterol ◽  
Hdl Cholesterol ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease ◽  
Protective Effects ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Cholesterol Levels ◽  
Diabetes And Obesity

Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is the most common cause of death in most Western countries. Nutrition factors contribute importantly to this high risk for ASCVD. Favourable alterations in diet can reduce six of the nine major risk factors for ASCVD, i.e. high serum LDL-cholesterol levels, high fasting serum triacylglycerol levels, low HDL-cholesterol levels, hypertension, diabetes and obesity. Wholegrain foods may be one the healthiest choices individuals can make to lower the risk for ASCVD. Epidemiological studies indicate that individuals with higher levels (in the highest quintile) of whole-grain intake have a 29% lower risk for ASCVD than individuals with lower levels (lowest quintile) of whole-grain intake. It is of interest that neither the highest levels of cereal fibre nor the highest levels of refined cereals provide appreciable protection against ASCVD. Generous intake of whole grains also provides protection from development of diabetes and obesity. Diets rich in whole-grain foods tend to decrease serum LDL-cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels as well as blood pressure while increasing serum HDL-cholesterol levels. Whole-grain intake may also favourably alter antioxidant status, serum homocysteine levels, vascular reactivity and the inflammatory state. Whole-grain components that appear to make major contributions to these protective effects are: dietary fibre; vitamins; minerals; antioxidants; phytosterols; other phytochemicals. Three servings of whole grains daily are recommended to provide these health benefits.

scholarly journals Ready-to-eat cereals and the burden of obesity in the context of their nutritional contribution: are all ready-to-eat cereals equally healthy? A systematic review

2010 ◽  
Vol 23 (2) ◽  
pp. 314-322 ◽  
Author(s):  
Rena I. Kosti ◽  
Demosthenes B. Panagiotakos ◽  
Antonis Zampelas
Keyword(s):  
Glycaemic Index ◽  
Protective Role ◽  
Inverse Association ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Balanced Diet ◽  
Glycaemic Load ◽  
Frequent Consumption ◽  
Treatment Of Obesity ◽  
Meta Analyses

A significant increase in the prevalence of obesity has occurred worldwide and the importance of considering the role of diet in the prevention and treatment of obesity is widely acknowledged. A growing body of evidence encourages the consumption of ready-to-eat cereals (RTEC) as part of a healthful diet. Research has shown an inverse association between the consumption of RTEC and the rate of obesity. However, other findings claim that this association was only attributed to the consumption of whole-grain cereals and not the refined-grain ones. Although meta-analyses of clinical trials support the use of a low-glycaemic index diet on weight loss, findings from other studies on the effect of the dietary glycaemic index on body weight have not been consistent. Thus, further research into the role of glycaemic index in the prevention and management of obesity and chronic disease is needed. Moreover, significant differences have been observed in composition among the marketed RTEC. In light of the revealing protective role of whole-grain, fibre-rich, low-energy-dense and low-glycaemic index/glycaemic load foods against obesity, public health professionals could drive their efforts towards the promotion of even more healthier RTEC when issuing advice on weight management. It seems, however, that despite any differences in their composition, the frequent consumption of RTEC due to their nutritional contribution is recommended in moderation and under the current recommendations in the context of a healthy balanced diet.

scholarly journals Whole grain consumption and weight gain: a review of the epidemiological evidence, potential mechanisms and opportunities for future research

2003 ◽  
Vol 62 (1) ◽  
pp. 25-29 ◽  
Author(s):  
Koh-Banerjee Pauline ◽  
Eric B. Rimm
Keyword(s):  
Body Weight ◽  
Weight Gain ◽  
Gut Hormones ◽  
Epidemiological Data ◽  
Postprandial Glucose ◽  
Glycaemic Index ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Future Research ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Grain Foods

The epidemiological data that directly examine whole grain v. refined grain intake in relation to weight gain are sparse. However, recently reported studies offer insight into the potential role that whole grains may play in body-weight regulation due to the effects that the components of whole grains have on hormonal factors, satiety and satiation. In both clinical trials and observational studies the intake of whole-grain foods was inversely associated with plasma biomarkers of obesity, including insulin, C-peptide and leptin concentrations. Whole-grain foods tend to have low glycaemic index values, resulting in lower postprandial glucose responses and insulin demand. High insulin levels may promote obesity by altering adipose tissue physiology and by enhancing appetite. The fibre content of whole grains may also affect the secretion of gut hormones, independent of glycaemic response, that may act as satiety factors. Future studies may examine whether whole grain intake is directly related to body weight, and whether the associations are primarily driven by components of the grain, including dietary fibre, bran or germ.

scholarly journals Whole Grain Consumption for the Prevention and Treatment of Breast Cancer

Nutrients ◽  
2019 ◽  
Vol 11 (8) ◽  
pp. 1769 ◽  
Author(s):  
Mingsi Xie ◽  
Jie Liu ◽  
Rong Tsao ◽  
Ziyuan Wang ◽  
Baoguo Sun ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Breast Cancer ◽  
Inverse Correlation ◽  
Underlying Mechanism ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Future Perspective ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Current Review ◽  
Prevention And Treatment ◽  
Important Food Source

Breast cancer is one of the most common and malignant cancers among females worldwide. Several epidemiological studies have indicated the inverse correlation between the intake of whole grains and the incidence of breast cancer. Whole grains are the most fundamental and important food source of bioactive phytochemicals, which have well-defined roles in the management of each stage of breast carcinogenesis. To better understand the value of whole grains in future prevention and treatment of breast cancer, the effects and possible mechanisms of six different whole grain cereals, which are the most commonly consumed throughout the world, are introduced in the current review. Moreover, the bioactive compounds extracted from whole grains are adequately formulated and the underlying mechanism of action is illustrated. In addition, the present limitations and future perspective of whole grain consumption for breast cancer are also concluded. The objective of this review is to promote the development of nutraceutical and functional food from whole grains and its application for reducing the risk of breast cancer.

The health benefits of whole grains and fibre

2014 ◽  
Vol 44 (6) ◽  
pp. 492-519 ◽  
Author(s):  
Carrie Ruxton ◽  
Emma Derbyshire
Keyword(s):  
Dietary Fibre ◽  
Observational Studies ◽  
Health Benefits ◽  
Blood Lipid ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Dietary Recommendations ◽  
Appetite Control ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Medline Search

Purpose – The purpose of this paper is to evaluate the latest mounting evidence reporting associations between the important role of whole grains and fibre in lowering the risk of chronic diseases and health. Design/methodology/approach – A general systematic review was conducted to locate and summarise up-to-date published studies within the field. A Medline search identified human-controlled trials and observational studies published in the past five years. Findings – A total of 49 studies were identified. In observational studies, higher intakes of whole grain and dietary fibre were associated with a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, abdominal adiposity and certain cancers. This was further supported by human intervention trials, which reported benefits for appetite control, blood lipid levels, glycaemic control, digestive health and secondary cancer prevention. Mechanisms may relate to the micronutrients and phytonutrients present in high fibre foods. Practical implications – Practical advice is needed to help people identify foods rich in whole grains, e.g. breakfast cereals. UK fibre recommendations should be aligned with European guidelines and food labelling regulations, and a whole grain dietary recommendation, e.g. similar to the US guideline of three portions a day, could be introduced. Government and industry should play a role in communicating dietary fibre guidelines and the health benefits associated with whole grain and fibre, particularly insoluble fibre. Originality/value – This paper develops knowledge about whole grains, health and the importance of establishing whole-grain dietary recommendations.

scholarly journals Rye, lignans and human health

2003 ◽  
Vol 62 (1) ◽  
pp. 193-199 ◽  
Author(s):  
Göran Hallmans ◽  
Jie-Xian Zhang ◽  
Eva Lundin ◽  
PäR Stattin ◽  
Anders Johansson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Protective Effect ◽  
Dietary Fibre ◽  
Human Subjects ◽  
Epidemiological Studies ◽  
Whole Grains ◽  
Myocardial Infarctions ◽  
Protective Effects ◽  
Whole Grain ◽  
Blood Concentrations ◽  
Plant Lignans

Rye bran contains a high content not only of dietary fibre, but also of plant lignans and other bioactive compounds in the so-called dietary fibre complex. Blood concentrations of lignans such as enterolactone have been used as biomarkers of intake of lignan-rich plant food. At present, evidence from studies in human subjects does not warrant the conclusion that rye, whole grains or phyto-oestrogens protect against cancer. Some studies, however, have pointed in that direction, especially in relation to cancers of the upper digestive tract. A number of prospective epidemiological studies have clearly shown a protective effect of whole-grain cereals against myocardial infarctions. A corresponding protective effect against diabetes and ischaemic stroke (brain infarct) has also been demonstrated. It seems reasonable to assume that these protective effects are associated with one or more factors in the dietary fibre complex.

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