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.
Key Points:
- Whole and refined grains contribute meaningful nutrients to dietary patterns.
- Fortification and enrichment of grains are critical for nutrient adequacy in the U.S. diet.
- There is no conclusive evidence linking refined grain consumption to overweight or obesity.
- Research gaps remain regarding grain foods and health.
These insights highlight the role of both whole and refined grains in balanced diets and underscore the need for more research to clarify their long-term health impacts.
