Whole grain cereal cuts risk of heart failure

October 24, 2007 in Healthy Eating, Heart Health, Men's Health, Nutrition Topics in the News

Whole grain cereal cuts risk of heart failure
Eating one half cup to one cup (125 to 250 ml) of whole grain cereal for breakfast every day can reduce the risk of heart failure in men, says a group of American researchers.

In this study, 21,000 middle-aged men recorded what they ate for breakfast for almost two decades. Men who ate no whole grain cereals had the highest incidence of heart failure. Those who consumed at least one bowl of whole grain cereal a day had the lowest incidence of heart failure.

Heart failure, or congestive heart failure, occurs when the heart does not pump enough blood through the body. It often develops as a result of a structural injury to the heart, such as a heart attack. Each year, over 50,000 Canadians are being treated for heart failure.

Previous studies have shown the numerous health benefits of eating whole grains: improved weight management, lower blood pressure, decreased risk of diabetes and heart disease.

Health Canada now recommends that at least half your daily servings of grain products be whole grain.

Whole grain products - brown rice, whole wheat pasta, oatmeal, quinoa, millet - differ from refined grain products because they contain all parts of the grain: the outer bran layer, the nutrient rich germ, and the starchy endosperm. As a result, whole grain foods offer more fiber, vitamins, minerals, phytochemicals and other nutrients that have been associated with optimal heart health.

One serving of whole grain is equal to one slice of bread, half a bagel, half a cup (125 ml) of brown rice, ¾ of a cup (175 ml) of oatmeal or 30 grams of cold cereal.  

Click here for help with cooking whole grains or see our July 2007 cookbook review

 

All research on this web site is the property of Leslie Beck Nutrition Consulting Inc. and is protected by copyright. Keep in mind that research on these matters continues daily and is subject to change. The information presented is not intended as a substitute for medical treatment. It is intended to provide ongoing support of your healthy lifestyle practices.