More brown rice, please!
New research shows that filling up on whole grains may be better for your belly as well as your heart. A recent clinical study at Penn State reports that whole grains have helped dieters lose more abdominal fat and improve levels of inflammation that are linked to reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The researchers in the Penn State study recruited fifty obese adults who live with a metabolic syndrome. Two groups were created: one group focused on whole grains, and the other group consumed refined grains. Both groups received the same dietary advice on weight loss and exercise.
The study found that those who trimmed calories and increased their whole-grain intake shed more belly fat and lowered their blood levels of C-reactive protein (CRP). CRP is a chronic, low-level inflammation in the blood levels. When CRP and abdominal fat are in excess, there is a link to heart attack and stroke. In this study, the scale of CRP reduction in the whole-grain group was similar to that seen with the use of statin drugs. More proof of how powerful our diets are to the health and happiness in our life. In contrast, dieters who mainly ate refined grains, such as white bread, were able to lose weight, but they trimmed less body fat from the middle and showed no change in CRP.
Those once fashionable low/no carbohydrate diets are dying out. I’m so excited, because my clients won’t be the only ones enjoying the rich taste, balanced lifestyle, and nutrients that the various grains give your body. Whole grains are one of the best sources of dietary fiber. They are an excellent source of the B-vitamin complex, which are necessary for healthy nerves. So if you’re nervous, eat up! Whole grains are so complete that incorporating more good quality grains in your diet helps balance your body and your life.
