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.
Gut Health
No Effects of a Short-Term Gluten-free Diet on Performance in Nonceliac Athletes (December 2015)
The popularity of gluten-free diets (GFDs) among nonceliac athletes is growing, despite limited evidence of performance or health benefits. This study investigated the impact of a short-term GFD on endurance performance, gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms, well-being, intestinal injury, and inflammatory markers in 13 nonceliac endurance cyclists.
Prebiotic consumption and the incidence of overweight in a Mediterranean cohort: the Seguimiento Universidad de Navarra Project (December 2015)
Prebiotics, including fermentable and nondigestible carbohydrates like fructans and galacto-oligosaccharides (GOS), are believed to positively influence weight regulation by improving gut health. However, their role in preventing overweight or obesity has been underexplored in longitudinal studies. This study investigated the association between prebiotic intake and overweight incidence in a cohort of middle-aged Spanish university graduates.
Whole-grain foods and chronic disease: evidence from epidemiological and intervention studies (June 2015)
Whole-grain (WG) foods play a vital role in dietary recommendations, offering carbohydrates, protein, fiber, and key nutrients. Increased WG consumption is consistently linked to health benefits.