Grain-based foods are an integral part of many diets, providing essential nutrients and contributing to diet quality. This study used NHANES 2005–2010 data to evaluate the association between different grain food patterns and nutrient intake, diet quality, and health metrics in U.S. adults aged 19 and older.
Key Points:
- Adults consuming cereals, pasta/cooked cereals/rice, and mixed grains had significantly higher Healthy – Eating Index scores compared to those avoiding grains (p < 0.002).
- Many grain patterns were linked to lower saturated fat intake and higher dietary fiber consumption.
- Yeast bread/roll consumers had lower total sugar intake (113.4 g vs. 124.8 g; p < 0.0001).
- Pasta/cooked cereals/rice consumers had lower body weights (79.1 kg vs. 82.5 kg; p = 0.009) and smaller waist circumferences (95.2 cm vs. 98.2 cm; p = 0.004).
- No significant differences in BMI or blood markers (glucose, insulin, cholesterol) were observed between grain and no-grain patterns.
Incorporating various grain foods into the diet is associated with improved diet quality, higher nutrient intake, and favorable weight and waist measurements in U.S. adults.
