The health benefits of whole grains come from the
nutrients and fiber found in the entire grain
kernel. Here is what leading nutrition councils are
saying about the importance of whole grains in your
diet:
According to MyPyramid
- Consuming food rich in fiber, such as whole
grains, as part of a healthy diet, reduces the
risk of coronary heart disease and
constipation.
- Eating at least 3 ounce equivalents a day of
whole grains may help with weight management
(source)
From the Whole Grains Council
- People who eat whole grains reduce serious
health risks
- Risk of heart disease drops 25-36%
- Risk of type 2 diabetes drops 21-27%
- Risk of digestive cancers drops
21-43%
- Risk of stroke drops 37%
- Other benefits include better weight control,
reduction in belly fat, and significant drops in
blood pressure
- Research has shown that children who eat
whole grains have a lower risk of obesity and
diabetes, lower cholesterol, reduced risk of
asthma, and may have reduced acne. Whole grains
help children maintain their energy levels and
feel fuller longer.
- For older Americans, consuming more whole
grains has shown to be beneficial in decreasing
BMI (Body Mass Index), weight gain, total
cholesterol and LDL cholesterol, and in improving
glucose response.
(source)
From the International Food
Information Council
- Whole grains contain many healthy components,
including dietary fiber, starch, essential fats,
antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, lignans, and
phenolic compounds that have been linked to
reduced risk of heart disease, cancer, diabetes,
obesity and other chronic diseases.
- Since most of the health-promoting components
are found in the germ and bran, foods made with
whole grains can play an important role in
maintaining good health.
(source)
For more information about whole grains, check
out our
Whole Grain Flyer,
Whole Grain Brochure and
Diabetes Brochure.