In a recent study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, researchers compared the cardiovascular effects of refined grains and whole grains in children.
- Diets rich in whole grains are associated with health benefits for adults and children.
- Refined grains pose an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke, according to various studies.
- Whole grains contain good quality carbohydrates which reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
Whole grain consumption is associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease in adults, potentially through changes in the gut microbiota. Although prevention of cardiovascular disease must begin early, there is little data on the effects in children. One study examined the effects of whole rye and oats on children’s metabolism, including their insulin, gut microbiota, and gastrointestinal symptoms.
“ The pathophysiology of cardiovascular diseases and diabetes begins in childhood »
This recent study showed “that a cardiovascular risk profile including hypertension, dyslipidemia, and adiposity in childhood was positively associated with midlife diseases. This highlights the need to address excess weight and risk markers in childhood to prevent the later development of cardiovascular disease and/or diabetes.”
The study was carried out on 55 Danish children aged 8 to 13. Each participant received whole oat and rye or refined grain products, ad libitum, for 8 weeks in random order. At 0, 8 and 16 weeks, researchers measured their height and weight, body composition and blood pressure. Fasting blood and stool samples were collected to analyze blood lipids, glucose, gut microbiota and fatty acids.
Reduced cholesterol in children consuming whole grains
It was found that high consumption of whole oats and rye reduced LDL cholesterol and triacylglycerol (triglyceride), modulated bacterial groups and increased beneficial metabolites in children. These results support recommendations to replace refined grains with whole grains in children. Finally, children were less tired and tended to have more frequent bowel movements when they consumed whole grains compared to refined grains, without having a negative impact on their health.
