Experts around the globe have long been advocating for the importance of whole grains for holistic nutrition. While these are necessary for a healthy body, a new study has found that the consumption of whole grains can potentially reduce the risk of heart disease. The American College of Cardiology Middle East conducted a research to analyse the effect of grains on heart health.
Eating refined grains is found to increase the risk of premature coronary artery disease. In other words, consuming whole grains is good for heart health and can prevent heart diseases in the long run.
Whole grains are basically unrefined grains that contain all parts of a kernel including germ, bran and endosperm. When these are milled, they get refined and the process removes the bran and germ. Reduction of these increases the shelf life of the grain and it can be consumed for weeks, months or maybe years. Whole grains, on the other hand, have a shorter life span and so, they should be consumed quickly. One of the reasons why people prefer refined grains over their whole is that whole grains have high fibre content which is dense, chewy and discomforting to some people. Not everyone enjoys chewing food to break it down and digest. Thus, refined grains are preferred for ease of consumption. However, we must not overlook the nutritional profile of grains. Whole grains are more nutrient-dense and beneficial as compared to refined grains. All the components of the grain kernel are extremely rich and nutritious.
Talking about wheat kernels, they have vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, fibre, healthy fats and phytochemicals. Refined grains eliminate bran and germ which have the most nutrients and are left with only the endosperm that has fewer vitamins, a little protein and a lot of carbohydrates. In short, refined grains lack nutrition when compared to whole grains.
Benefits of whole grains
Whole grains are rich in nutrients which makes them supremely good for health. Refined grains lack these nutrients and have only starchy carbs to offer to you. Consumption of refined grains, therefore, can lead to overconsumption of carbohydrates which is not good for health.
Refined grains are deprived of antioxidants and phytochemicals that support heart health. Therefore, these put your heart at risk of coronary heart disease. Researchers also mentioned that fortification of refined grains won’t match the nutritional benefits of whole grains. It is extremely important to consume whole grains on a daily basis to get fibre which is essential for a healthy heart. It manages cholesterol levels that boost heart functions and keep diseases at bay.
Image credits- freepik
-1751527287915.png)
-1751352905978.jpg)
