Wholegrains and young healthy women

A new study shows wholegrains eaten daily can potentially lead to better health in women

The liver secretes C-reactive protein (CRP) which flags inflammation. Spikes in the level of CRP are also linked to chronic diseases in women such as diabetes, cancer and disorders of the heart and blood. Increased problems with fertility and general reproduction, hypertension and premature birthing can also occur when CRP levels are high. A new US study suggests eating wholegrains every day can lower CRP levels and potentially lead to better health in young women.

The study of 259 young healthy women aged between 18-44yrs, shows that eating wholegrains daily, significantly and inversely reduces levels of CRP. Women who ate half a serve of wholegrains daily, equal to 1 slice of wholegrain or wholemeal bread, had 11.5% significantly lower levels of inflammation, compared to those who did not. Those who ate more than half a serve of wholegrains per day had 12.3% significantly lower levels of inflammation, compared to those that did not eat any wholegrains. The study shows that eating more than half a serve of wholegrains daily, significantly lowers levels of CRP and the chance of moving to a more severe cardiovascular risk category , as classified by the American Heart Association, regardless of any dietary or metabolic factors.

The results of this study highlight the benefits of even a moderate intake of wholegrains per day as part of a healthy diet, with the potential to improve short and long term health outcomes in young healthy women. Scientific research shows that people who eat 48g of wholegrains a day, reduce the risk of developing chronic disease by 20-30%.

Sources

Gaskins AJ et al. Wholegrains are associated with serum concentrations of high sensitivity C-reactive protein among premenopausal women. J Nutr 140: 1669-1676, 2010.

Assoc Prof P. Williams & Go Grains Health and Nutrition Ltd. The Grains & Legumes Health Report. A Review of the Science. 2010.