A new study published in Nutrients, which analyzed the diets of more than 14,000 Americans over five years, found that both whole and refined grain foods play a role in improved diet quality, nutrient intake and everyday accessibility.
Whole grain
Refined Grain Intake and Risk of Type 2 Diabetes: Commentary (August 2022)
This commentary from Glenn Gaesser, PhD. explores the association between refined grain consumption and the risk of type 2 diabetes (T2D). Current U.S. dietary guidelines recommend replacing refined grains with whole grains due to the recognized benefits of whole grains for reducing chronic disease risks.
Whole grain intake and pancreatic cancer risk (August 2021)
This article provides a commentary on a study exploring the relationship between whole grain intake and hepatic steatosis (fatty liver disease) in U.S. adults, using data from the 2017–2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The original study assessed liver fat using controlled attenuation parameter (CAP) measurements via vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) and categorized whole grain intake into tertiles based on self-reported 24-hour dietary recall.
Do Refined Grains Have a Place in a Healthy Dietary Pattern? Perspectives from an Expert Panel Consensus Meeting (October 2020)
Emerging research suggests that certain refined grains can be part of a healthy diet. A scientific expert panel reviewed studies since the 2015 Dietary Guidelines, focusing on nutrient intake, diet quality, grain enrichment/fortification, and links to weight outcomes.
Perspective: Whole and Refined Grains and Health Evidence Supporting “Make Half Your Grains Whole” (May 2020)
Dietary guidelines encourage consumers to “make half their grains whole,” yet debates continue about refined grains and grain-based foods (GBFs). This article counters misconceptions, advocating for a balanced intake of whole-grain foods (WGFs) and refined-grain foods (RGFs).
Grain Foods in US Infants Are Associated with Greater Nutrient Intakes, Improved Diet Quality and Increased Consumption of Recommended Food Groups (November 2019)
Grain foods may play an essential role in the diets of U.S. infants, according to an analysis of infant data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The study examined relationships between grain consumption, nutrient intake, diet quality, and food group consumption among infants aged 6 to 23 months.