The final installment in this series examines how carbohydrates (CHOs), grains, and whole grains affect digestion, gut health, and chronic diseases. It explores their influence on the microbiome, glycemic response, inflammation, and immune function, while addressing gluten-related disorders such as celiac disease.
Key Points:
- Grains provide essential nutrients, dietary fiber, and resistant starch, supporting gut health and reducing risks of gut-related disorders like irritable bowel syndrome.
- Their impacts on glycemic response, inflammation, and immunity underline the importance of balanced – CHO consumption for preventing chronic diseases, including diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and certain cancers.
- Both enriched refined grains and whole grains contribute to a health-promoting diet when consumed in appropriate proportions.
This review highlights the critical balance of grain-based foods in optimizing health and mitigating chronic disease risks worldwide.
