Researchers have recently refined refined grains with a higherRisk of heart diseaseand death associated. Cereal grains such as oats, rice, barley and wheat account for around 50% of daily calorie intake worldwide. This also applies to low- and middle-income countries, particularly Africa and South Asia, according to the study authors. Whole grain products, on the other hand, tend to contain more fiber, vitamins, minerals and essential fatty acids than refined grains. Previous studies have shown that higher whole grain intake is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and death. However, no clear associations were found for refined grains.
How dangerous are refined grains for health?
To uncover this lack of evidence, researchers examined the association between intake of refined grains, whole grains and white rice with cardiovascular disease and mortality. Their findings are based on data from 137,130 people aged 35 to 70 in 21 low-, middle- and high-income countries. The participants had no history of heart disease. They participated in the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological Study (PURE). The research team examined white rice separately from all other refined grains. This was because more than 60% of the study participants live in Asia, where rice is a staple food. At the start of the study, detailed information about participants' education, wealth, lifestyle and medical history was collected. The scientists used validated food questionnaires to assess intake of refined grains, whole grains and white rice.
Deaths from cardiovascular causes or major cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes and heart failure were then tracked for an average of 9.4 years. The researchers found that the highest category of refined grain intake (at least 350g or about 7 servings per day) was associated with a 27% higher risk of death. There was a 33% higher risk of major cardiovascular events compared to the lowest intake category (less than 50 g per day). Higher intake of refined grains was also linked to higher blood pressure. However, no significant associations were found between whole grain or white rice intake and health risks. The resultsthis studyare likely to be robust and generally applicable to populations around the world. Reducing the quantity and improving the quality of carbohydrates is therefore essential for improved health.
