Study on Whole Grain Consumption

Study on Whole Grain Consumption

The 2010 Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommend different amounts of calories and foods according to your age and activity level. Overall, the Guidelines recommend that all Americans make half or more of their grains whole grains. For everyone age 9 and up, this means eating 3 to 5 servings or more of whole grains every day.

When you eat higher amounts of whole grains, you’re more likely to have the highest total intake of dietary fiber. This news comes from a recent study published by the University of Minnesota in collaboration with the General Mills Bell Institute of Health and Nutrition. Researchers examined the association between whole grain intake and total dietary fiber using results from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2009 – 2010. The data, collected from a cross-section of U.S. households, found that among Americans two years and older, those who ate higher amounts of whole grains were more likely to have the highest total dietary fiber intake.

With all the known health benefits of dietary fiber, many Americans fall short on meeting the recommended daily amount. Only 7.7 percent of adults consumed the recommended three ounce equivalents daily, and even fewer children were getting enough.

Studies have shown many health benefits of fiber –including, reducing blood cholesterol levels, lowering the risk of heart disease, maintaining regularity and helping you feel full longer which can aid in weight loss.

Whole grain bread, cereal and pasta are great ways to add whole grains to your diet.  Other whole grains include barley, bulgur, oats, quinoa, and brown rice.